Friday, December 27, 2013
Hyundai Helping through Social Meda
Saturday November 14th I was driving to meet my brother in Ft. Wayne Indiana in my 2012 Hyundai Accent. When I arrived in Ft. Wayne I heard a grinding noise coming from the front passenger side wheel well. I immediately pulled over to inspect what I thought was something caught underneath my car. What I found was a piece of the aerodynamic underbody shielding had come loose and was dragging on the ground.
My Accent currently has about 3000 miles on it so my frustration level was quite high at this point especially since it happened on a road trip. I can be a bit obsessive about my car as my Fiancé Katelyn can attest to. Cooler heads prevailed and I tucked it back under the fender and moved on.
This certainly didnt stop me from tweeting about it (in the gallery you can see what I said). I knew the car was still under warranty so I hoped that it could be fixed. To some I know this sounds like a minor inconvenience but its a brand new car and I want to keep it as perfect as possible.
This happened on a weekend and understanding how Social Media usually goes I knew Id have to wait till Monday for any type of response. To my surprise though the CEO of Hyundai North America John Krafick direct messaged me on Sunday (see gallery) asking me what I thought happened. On Monday I received the info on how to contact Hyundai Customer Care.
Word was sent to the Central Region Customer Car and on Tuesday I received a call asking me who my local Hyundai dealership was. Hyundai then contacted the dealership and explained the situation to them. That afternoon I stopped in and had them throw the Accent on the lift and parts were ordered. This Friday I will take the Accent in and have the new part installed with no cost to me.
What happened here is a perfect example of how to use Social Media effectively to reach out to customers. Detecting a problem and handling it in a timely manner is key today to brand loyalty. Someone who uses Social Media as heavily as I do can truly appreciate this. Within a couple day I went from very frustrated to extremely pleased with how well Hyundai has handled this. I will continue to be extremely happy with my 2012 Hyundai Accent.
See the full gallery on Posterous
Audi A8 L Review
Can not assume it would be the CEO of Audi, Rupert Stadler, and development boss Michael Dick, Member of the Board, to be there on the first day of the international press launch of the new Audi A8 L (nes) in Salzburg. Discourage them from their purpose could also not be midsummer scorching heat, which is like a bell through the imposing Red Bull Hangar 7 in steel and glass placed at Salzburg Airport, the starting point for test drives. Literally a race, both speakers raved about the quality, aesthetics, comfort, the incomparable feeling of space, giving an A8 L, and also by the impressive efficiency of Audis flagship used for engines.
Top model as a driver of innovation
Again proving to be the top model as a driver of innovation. You simply need such leaders who voranbrächten.Vorstellung in terms of efficiency, in Lightweight and consumption reduction Audi A8 L: Automobile sovereignty with a new name "The upper class has a future - we can define the times." Already been achieved through tools: An Audi A8 L 3.0 TDI V6 was content despite all-wheel drive with an average of 6.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. Even the twelve-cylinder with its incomparable dynamism come from ten percent less fuel than its predecessor: 13.6 liters instead of 12.4 - despite the ten-percent power increase from 450 to 500 hp! Moreover, it is also been the A8 W12 in the news that characterize the brand was first introduced, such as the new brand image, the single-frame or the LED daytime running lights.
A true gift
With great pleasure, told Stadler, put it more often and even the wheel of an Audi A8 L. The large long wheel base, he sees "a real gift," the idea really Audi A8 L: good-for cars with new sovereignty Namenzum relax. "You get your head and can work well in the rear."
Every reason to rejoice
Mediate Rupert Stadler and Michael Dick was at the press presentation in Salzburg that the company has every reason to rejoice. With fewer than 550,000 vehicles delivered worldwide in the first six months of this year, Audi has put down the best half-year in its history. At the end of the year there are estimated by the Audi bosses probably be back more than a million units.
Read here..
Top model as a driver of innovation
Again proving to be the top model as a driver of innovation. You simply need such leaders who voranbrächten.Vorstellung in terms of efficiency, in Lightweight and consumption reduction Audi A8 L: Automobile sovereignty with a new name "The upper class has a future - we can define the times." Already been achieved through tools: An Audi A8 L 3.0 TDI V6 was content despite all-wheel drive with an average of 6.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. Even the twelve-cylinder with its incomparable dynamism come from ten percent less fuel than its predecessor: 13.6 liters instead of 12.4 - despite the ten-percent power increase from 450 to 500 hp! Moreover, it is also been the A8 W12 in the news that characterize the brand was first introduced, such as the new brand image, the single-frame or the LED daytime running lights.
A true gift
With great pleasure, told Stadler, put it more often and even the wheel of an Audi A8 L. The large long wheel base, he sees "a real gift," the idea really Audi A8 L: good-for cars with new sovereignty Namenzum relax. "You get your head and can work well in the rear."
Every reason to rejoice
Mediate Rupert Stadler and Michael Dick was at the press presentation in Salzburg that the company has every reason to rejoice. With fewer than 550,000 vehicles delivered worldwide in the first six months of this year, Audi has put down the best half-year in its history. At the end of the year there are estimated by the Audi bosses probably be back more than a million units.
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Review Cadillac XTS
Cadillac has slowly been rebuilding its brand to glory, but it has been a long road. For Cadillac, the phoenix that rose from the ashes is without a doubt the successful CTS. The brands greatest triumph since the V-16 Cadillacs of the 1930s is without a shadow of a doubt the CTS-V, an absolute menace to society dressed in a tuxedo. Yet, with all focus on the CTS, Cadillacs larger car family went neglected, and between the DTS and STS, it seemed confusing as to where Cadillac wanted to go with their premier large car. Which made me scratch my head, given that Cadillac has been building luxury cars for over 100 years.
The DTS and STS are now extinct, and the XTS takes their place. The XTS boasts a prominent grille, and the creased styling weve come to expect from Cadillacs Art & Science design mantra. The XTS is easily recognizable as a Cadillac, but there is no hiding the fact the car was engineered as a front wheel drive vehicle, and it looks it. And that can be a tough sell in the luxury car market, where buyers demand looks above all else. The XTS is a handsome car, but being front wheel drive, it cannot pull off the elegance of design its rear wheel drive competitors offer.
Inside, the XTS is a revelation. Step in to the drivers seat, hit the start button and you are greeted with a swirling digital display for not just the infotainment center, but the dashboard itself. Thats right-no needles, the gauges are all computerized. They look fantastic. If youve complained that stepping into a car has stopped having any sense of occasion, step into an XTS. You genuinely feel like you are sitting in the most cutting edge car out there. And thats not always a good thing. Meet CUE, Cadillacs newest infotainment system. Cadillac has forgone buttons to control climate control and other functions. Yes, it is high tech, but as a Gen Xer with an iMac, iPod, iPad and Android phone, the XTSs controls proved to have the highest learning curve of any car I have ever driven in all the years I have reviewed cars. My Grandfather loved Cadillacs, but he would positively hate the XTS for its controls. Which I understand. Cadillac has been desperate to reach out to a younger audience, and shake the old mans car that has dogged them for decades. But the reality is the guy contemplating an XTS will likely be in his 50s at least, not understand how to work Facebook, doesnt know what a tweet is, and think Pandora is about a box. Yes, the XTS is extremely comfortable, build quality and materials are on par for the price paid, but simpler controls would be welcome.
Motivation for the XTS comes in one form only, a 3.6L V-6, rated at 304hp, and paired to a six-speed automatic. Buyers have a choice between front and all-wheel drive. The XTS does a decent job of getting out of its own way, and passing power is perfectly fine. However, I suspect Cadillac buyers will be disappointed at the lack of a V-8 option. As expected, the XTS was stellar as a highway cruiser. Fitted with 20 alloys, the XTS Magnetic Ride Control delivered one of the smoothest rides I can recall in a car sporting wheels that large. Brembo brakes up front instilled confidence, and the XTS was cool as a cucumber when pushed, but few owners are likely to drive this car hard. For its considerable size, the XTS EPA fuel economy numbers are 17/26 MPG city/highway, not bad for a large all wheel drive luxury car.
A base front wheel drive XTS starts at $44, 075USD, and comes well equipped. The XTS is available in four trim levels: Standard, Luxury, Premium, and Platinum. Our test car was the Platinum with all-wheel drive. The standard equipment list is staggering. Bose studio surround sound with 14 speakers, SiriusXM and HD radio, Opus leather interior, real wood trim, power tilt/telescope/heated steering wheel, heated/vented front seats, three-zone auto climate control, head up display and a panoramic moonroof. Of course, there are shades aplenty for privacy. I mentioned before the XTS offers a real sense of occasion when you step in, but even before you get in, while leaving a five star restaurant after dinner, walk up to your XTS, hit the button to unlock the doors, and the illuminated door handles are jaw-dropping sexy. In words, it may sound tacky, but in person, seeing this puts the XTS at the height of class. Our test cars sole option was a gorgeous Crystal Red Tintcoat, which brought the tally to $62,300, including delivery. Thats a far cry from the base XTS price, but with all-wheel drive and every conceivable luxury option as standard equipment, the XTS we sampled did not seem excessively priced for what you get.
Still, the XTS, as fine a car it is, seems conflicted. With Cadillac, you have the well received CTS, and the new rear wheel drive ATS, meant to fight the BMW 3-series. With the XTS we have a front wheel drive, full size luxury car competing in a market segment that practically demands rear wheel drive. Then again, the XTS nearest domestic competitor,the Lincoln MKS, also based on a front-drive platform, which is less expensive and more powerful in Ecoboost form, but seems old next to the XTS. Cadillac may not be after the BMW 5-Series buyer, but their renewed interest in a large car has produced a luxurious, capable car that suffers none of the driving traits of the cars the XTS can trace its roots to.
Hurricane Sandy Killer of Cars
Without ignoring the very real human tragedy, The Garage Blog is about the cult of the automobile. As can be expected, cars of all kinds were included in the wreckage; necessary daily drivers, vans, police cars, FDNY trucks, luxury vehicles, and classics. Mother Nature is an equal opportunity destroyer and there were some heartbreakers. Sitting on a bus to the Rockaways in Howard Beach traffic the weekend after the storm hit, I saw no less than three flooded late 60s Mustangs, what looked like a 40 Studebaker from behind, a 72 Stingray, and on an on. So, without further ado, on to the carnage. < Yes, I did.
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Chevrolet’s new slogan is “Find New Roads”
General Motors will launch a new Chevrolet advertising campaign next month, replacing the “Chevy Runs Deep” slogan with a new one: “Find New Roads”.
It will be Chevy’s first global campaign and it will launch in the United States in the first quarter of the year. Later on the campaign will reach the other 140 markets where Chevrolets are sold, GM said today in a statement.
“Find New Roads embraces the spirit of ingenuity that has been in Chevrolet’s DNA since the beginning and it will continue to guide every aspect of our business moving forward. We have sold Chevrolets around the world for almost a century, but this is the first time we have aligned behind one global vision,” said Mary Barra, senior vice president of Global Product Development.
Chevrolet sales have grown about 38 percent since the 2009 launch of the Cruze mid-size sedan, the brand’s first truly global vehicle. “This is the right time to launch this initiative with over 20 vehicle launches globally in 2013,” said Alan Batey, vice president, U.S. Sales, Service and Global Marketing.
Chevrolet adopted the “Chevy Runs Deep” slogan in 2010 with the arrival of former marketing chief Joel Ewanick. The tagline has been criticized for lacking a clear meaning and failing to translate well in some languages.
Courtesy of In Auto News
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet 2012
- Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet, 2012
Like the more than 680,000 units of previous VW Golf cabriolets built, the new Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet also has a classic soft top - that is, a fabric top. Why fabric and not steel as on the Eos? A glance at the new model is telling: at a length of 4,246 mm, the Golf Cabriolet has a significantly more compact construction than the 4,423 mm long Eos. The two vehicles take fully independent approaches to styling, positioning and cabriolet design.
The top of the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet
Though Volkswagen is using a fabric top on the Golf, the four-seater is one of the quietest of cabriolets. Its soothing quiet ride is attributable to the sophisticated design of the fabric roof as well as new window and door seals. Wind noises in the high frequency range above 5,000 Hz are perceived as especially annoying, since they make it difficult hold a conversation while driving (articulation index). Volkswagen examined this articulation index in-depth and evaluated experiences in other vehicles. The results: the Golf Cabriolet actually sets new standards for acoustics in cabriolets.
The soft top itself consists of a linkage, a roofliner, insulating filler layer throughout and exterior cover. Perfection in everyday practicality: the development team designed the joints of the longitudinal seams of the exterior cover fabrics (centre panel and two side panels) so that they serve as an additional drip rail. Perfection in aerodynamics: mounted between the longitudinal frames of the top linkage are a total of 4 roof cross bows and the so-called front roof bow (the first large transverse element behind the windscreen frame). In turn, the soft top is joined to the roof bows by screw-fastened fabric retention strips. Consequently, even at higher speeds, the fabric roof does not fill with air. And that has a positive effect on aerodynamics.
When the roof is stowed, the upper surface of the front roof bow covers the top surface of the storage box. This eliminates the need for a separate cover. The results: the standard fully-automatic electro-hydraulic top opens (9.0 seconds) and and closes (11.0 seconds) faster. In addition, it does not need to descend as deeply into the larger bootspace (250 litres with roof up or down).
The top is operated from a central switch on the centre console. Opening and closing are even possible while driving - at speeds up to 30 km/h. Two hydraulic pumps activated by a central switch generate the necessary pressure. Even in this area, special care was taken to ensure that the least possible noise is generated; for example, the hydraulic unit is enclosed by insulation. Unlatching and latching of the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolets soft top is handled by an electromechanical locking system. It operates fully automatically. This means that no additional manual unlatching or latching is necessary. The system senses, via 2 microswitches, whether the roof is completely opened or closed, and it informs the driver of the OK status by an acoustic signal and a visual message (in the multifunction display).
To ensure a good view behind the car, the tops heated rear glass window was designed to be especially large for a cabriolet; it is joined to the soft top by what is known as high-frequency welding.
Safety in the Golf Cabriolet
Rollover protection: Since 1979, when the first Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet was presented, all generations of this model series have had a roll bar. That had to be, because in the early years of the Golf Cabrio automatically deploying rollover protection systems had not yet been invented. When the first such systems appeared at the end of the 1980s, they were hardly suitable for affordable cars such as a Golf Cabriolet. This changed in 2003, when Volkswagen presented the New Beetle Cabriolet with rollover protection that could be deployed from behind the rear seats. The system was modified for the Eos, and - in its latest development stage - it now protects occupants of the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet as well.
The rollover protection element implemented in the Golf races upward behind the rear headrests within 0.25 seconds of the vehicle exceeding a predefined transverse acceleration or tilt angle. The systems two rollover modules consist of one fixed aluminium profile and one moveable aluminium profile within it that is pretensioned with a spring. The inner profile is held in its rest position by a magnetic switch. When triggered by the airbag controller in reaction to an impending rollover, the solenoid opens a holding detent and releases the inner profile. While it shoots upward, a support detent overruns a toothed track mounted to the inner profile and prevents the inner profile from dropping downward.
The highlight of the system redesigned for the Golf: the 2 deployable modules were designed to be significantly more compact. For the first time on a Volkswagen cabriolet with deployable rollover protection, it was possible to implement a cargo pass-through with a width of 526 mm and a height of 381 mm, including a folding rear seatback. Previously, there was just a ski pass-through in this area.
Body reinforcements: The Golf Cabriolet offers maximum all-round safety thanks to its rollover protection system, a reinforced windscreen frame and numerous other structural modifications (underbody, side panels, crossmembers, doors). Due to its numerous reinforcements, the 4.25 metre long, 1.78 metre wide and (top up) 1.42 metre tall Golf Cabriolet also exhibits extreme torsional rigidity. Some of these reinforcements are visible when the cabriolet is viewed from below, such as when the Cabrio and a "normal" Golf stand side by side on a raised platform. In a visual comparison, the observer can see significant differences in the underbodies. In front, the cabriolet has an engine enclosure made of aluminium; together with its mounting brackets, which increases rigidity. In addition, the engine mount, acting as a vibration damper, adds refinement at the front end. On each side of the car, 2 lateral reinforcements in the sill area and 2 diagonal braces, front and rear, as well as the reinforced rear subframe joint lead to further gains in rigidity and a significant reduction in resonant body vibrations.
What is referred to as the coefficient of static torsional rigidity reaches a value of over 13,500 Newton metres per degree; the first resonant torsional frequency lies above 17.5 Hz - first-class for a cabriolet. And this rigidity, which is also a crucial factor for optimal driving stability and driving comfort, is quite noticeable. Meanwhile the galvanised body protects the car from rusting.
Cabriolet-specific airbags: The protective systems on the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet are completed by reinforcements in the doors and standard front and side head-thorax airbags. The latter are specially designed for a cabriolet, since of course it is impossible to mount side head airbags in the roof area. The head-thorax airbags integrated in the lateral sections of the seatbacks therefore deploy next to the driver and front passenger over the entire interior height of the Golf Cabriolet. A standard knee airbag has also been incorporated on the drivers side. In conjunction with the safety belt, this airbag absorbs energy from the pelvic area and the legs, which leads to reduced occupant loading. Taking it further: thanks to the knee airbag, the driver is integrated in the vehicles deceleration mode sooner via the thighs and pelvis. This initiates upper body rotation precisely, so that the drivers airbag can make contact with and support the upper body at an optimised angle. The knee airbags mode of operation illustrates the true complexity of the networking of safety systems.
Styling of the VW Golf Cabriolet
Front end: Viewed from the front, this cabriolet is of course a typical Golf. Nonetheless, the cabriolet has an even sportier image from this perspective, because of the swept-back windscreen. An especially dynamic image results when the Cabrio is ordered with the optional bi-xenon headlights. In this case, the daytime running light formed by 15 LEDs is automatically integrated in the dual headlight housing.
Rear: The smoked LED rear lights were adapted from the three- and five-door Golf. Naturally, designers and engineers redesigned the rear section itself. The cabriolets bootlid extends low into the bumper, and it swings far upward, making it easy to stow suitcases or shopping items. An elegant chrome trim strip forms a visual contrast between the lower edge of the soft top and the bootlid; this continuous chrome strip extends up to the A-pillars.
Side profile: In side profile, 3 styling characteristics of the cabriolet are especially appealing to the eye: the more swept-back windscreen, the visually very short boot and the soft top integrated in these style lines. When the soft top is down, the Golf Cabriolet has an elegant, extended look. With the top up, the compact and crisp styling lines around the imaginary C-pillars and the boot reflect the unmistakable character of the previous model and transfer it to contemporary times - spanning over an entire decade.
As standard, the Golf Cabriolet leaves Volkswagens Osnabrück factory with weight-optimised 16-inch steel wheels with attractive full wheel covers and 205 tyres. Five different alloy wheels are also available as options (one 16-inch, three 17-inch, one 18-inch).
Interior of the Golf Cabriolet
Very clearly - the cabriolet version of the Golf follows the high styling and material quality standards of the classic hardtop Golf 1:1 in its interior. This results in a level of sophistication that is otherwise only offered in significantly more expensive cabriolets. Like the Eos before it, the Golf sets itself apart from many other cabriolet cars in the compact class in one key aspect of its interior: the windscreen frame is refreshingly short, optimising the Cabrio feeling. In addition, the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet offers the largest interior length in its class. Guests in the rear will especially notice the 833 mm of effective legroom.
Similar to the design implemented in the Eos, the top activation switch is integrated in the centre console between the driver and passenger seats. Redesigned features include the rear bench seat and seat upholstery materials. The Golf Cabriolet also has a practical Easy Entry function of the front seats as standard; this makes it easier for rear passengers to enter and exit the car.
There are practical bag hooks in the side panels of the 250 litre boot; located right next to the hooks are the remote latch release mechanisms for folding the 50:50 split rear seatback. When the seatback is folded, this adds additional stowing capacity thanks to the very large pass-through opening.
Democratisation of the cabriolet
Back in 1979, Volkswagen had already democratised open-top driving with the first VW Golf Cabriolet. Laying the foundation for this democratic movement, thirty years earlier, was the Beetle Cabrio. The new Golf Cabriolet also embodies this philosophy. Another aspect links it to its legendary predecessors as well: it breaks free of class boundaries. So, attempting to determine the bank balance of its female or male driver is really a waste of time.
Standard features of the Golf Cabriolet
At its market launch in Germany, the model starts at a price of 23,625 euros (VW Golf Cabriolet 1.2 TSI with 77 kW / 105 PS). That is naturally more than a comparably equipped Golf Trendline with sunroof, but it is significantly less than most other four-seat cabriolets in this class. The price differential compared to the classically constructed "hard top" Golf is due to body reinforcements and the soft top activation system, including the sophisticated electro-hydraulic drive and active rollover protection system. So, the new Golf makes it easier to choose to drive all year-round in a cabriolet. And its inventory of standard features is already quite long.
What exactly does one get for 23,625 euros? A four-seat cabriolet with fully automatic soft top, automatically deploying rollover protection, an extremely strong windscreen frame, an effective network of airbags and ESP including Hill Climb Assist, countersteering support and trailer stabilisation, as well as daytime running lights. That is a brief sketch of its safety-related features. Yet, the Golf Cabriolet 1.2 TSI has even more to offer...
Like the Eos, Passat CC, Touareg and Phaeton, Volkswagen is intentionally also offering just one equipment line for the cabriolet Golf. Therefore, the comparison to the hard top Golf Trendline is not a perfect one, since the Cabriolet has features, inside and out, which are either advanced developments or were adapted from the higher equipment lines of the cabriolets hard top counterpart.
Standard exterior features: In front, the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is equipped with chrome trim strips on the radiator grille fins, and at the rear it features smoked LED rear lights and a sports-style bumper. Running from A-pillar to A-pillar, a chrome band encircles the side windows and the soft top. Also standard: green-tinted thermal insulating glass, 205 tyres in 16-inch format with weight-optimised wheel covers, and naturally the electro-hydraulic drive of the soft top.
Standard interior features and functionality: Many of the cars basic interior features include details that have a positive effect on life aboard. They include the climate control system, reading lights in front (2), Hill Climb Assist, length and vertical adjustment of the steering column, and - in BlueMotion Technology models - a Stop/Start system and a system for recovering braking energy (battery regeneration). Standard features also include electric door mirrors, electro-mechanical power steering, wireless remote control of the central locking and a dust and pollen filter with an activated carbon insert. Also always standard: height-adjustable comfort seats (in front) in "Scout" upholstery, chrome accents on switch keys for the electric windows, decorative chrome bezels around the instruments and air vents, numerous storage compartments, Easy Entry for rear passengers and a 3-spoke steering wheel that offers good grip. The glovebox can also be cooled, and the rear seatback folds with a 50:50 split.
Buyers who add the RCD 310 radio-CD system to the car configuration for 655 euros - with 6 loudspeakers, 4 x 20 Watts of audio power, MP3 function, multimedia AUX-IN power and dual tuner - pay a total of 24,280 euros and really have everything they need to enjoy life in the cabriolet.
Optional features of the Golf Cabriolet
Nonetheless, there must be sufficient room to further customise a car, because that too represents a bit of freedom. Along with the classic individual extras, 7 preconfigured packs are available with the new Golf Cabriolet, each offering a bundled price advantage: the "Performance," "Design & Style," "Comfort," "Technology," "Light & Sight", "Mirror" and "Winter" packs.
Buyers of the new cabriolet can choose between the 2 packs "Performance" and "Design & Style." "Design & Style" is essentially the first expansion level for making the Volkswagen even more exclusive and sporty. "Performance," meanwhile, includes all features of the "Design & Style" pack and adds many other details such as leather upholstery. Both packs are coupled with alloy wheels.
"Design & Style pack"
Those choosing the "Design & Style" pack (910 euros) are treated to features such as sport seats with new upholstery styles in Alcantara (centre seat panel) and "Catch Up" upholstery (seat lateral supports), a 3-spoke steering wheel in "Cool Leather" (heats up less in sunlight), pedals with stainless steel caps, leather-trimmed parking brake grip and gearshift grip, chrome bezel on the rotary light switch, chrome accents on the switches for door mirror control, "Black Stripe" decorative inserts for the dashboard and door trim, storage pockets on the backs of the front seats and lumbar supports in front.
"Performance pack"
The "Performance pack" (3,295 euros) contains, beyond "Design & Style" details, features such as leather upholstery in "Vienna" style ("Cool Leather") with seat heating and lumbar supports in front, woven floor mats, a rain sensor and the automatically dimming rear-view mirror, stainless steel pedals, other exterior chrome details and bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, dynamic and static cornering lights, automatic switching of the running lights with "Leaving home" and "Coming home" functions, licence plate illumination in LED technology and front fog lights with chrome trim. The "Performance pack" is coupled with one of the audio systems.
"Comfort pack"
The "Comfort pack" (455 euros) consists of a wind deflector, front centre armrest with storage box and 12-Volt accessory outlet, a storage compartment in front of the rear seating area, a second 12V outlet in the boot and cruise control system.
"Technology pack"
For just 65 euros, the "Technology pack" adds a rain sensor for the windscreen wipers, automatically dipping rear-view mirror, 2 lamps in the footwell area, automatic running light switching with "Leaving home" and "Coming home" functions and Light Assist automatic main beam control (automatically dips headlights when oncoming traffic is present or traffic in front of the car is near). The "Technology pack" is coupled to the ParkPilot (540 euros) and the multifunction display "Plus" (55 euros).
"Light & Sight pack"
For those who do not wish to include the Park Pilot, multifunction display "Plus" or Light Assist system (individual price: 142 euros) in the "Technology pack" can order the "Light & Sight pack" separately for 175 euros. It consists of the rain sensor, automatically dimming rear-view mirror, lights in the footwell and automatic running light switching with "Leaving home" and "Coming home" function.
"Mirror pack"
This pack supplements the "Light & Sight pack" with an electrically folding door mirror, activatable passenger-side mirror lowering for reversing and surroundings illumination.
"Winter pack"
The "Winter pack" that is traditionally offered in many Volkswagens, and is very frequently ordered, makes driving in the coldest season easier. This pack features automatically heated windscreen washer nozzles, headlight cleaning system, heated front seats and warning lamp for low washer water level. Price: 415 euros. When ordered together with the leather interior or xenon headlights, the price is reduced to 285 euros; those choosing leather and xenon pay just 55 euros.
16-, 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels
The 16-inch alloy wheel in the programme is the "Atlanta" with 5 dual spokes and 205 tyres. In 17-inch format, Volkswagen offers 3 wheel designs for the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet: "Seattle" (5 double spokes), "Porto" (10 spokes) and "Salamanca" (10 spokes). The 18-inch wheel is the "Charleston" (5 double spokes) with black painted rim base. All 17-inch alloy wheels are delivered with 225 tyres.
Individual features
The individual features of the packs are also available separately. Those wishing to increase further the degree of customisation can order nearly any of the extras available in the Golf with a hard-top roof. Key options here are technologies and systems such as ParkPilot (acoustic signal and visual display via the audio system when parking), sport chassis (15 mm lower), automatic climate control system ("Climatronic"), leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, MEDIA-IN (USB port), the RCD 310 radio-CD system or radio-CD-navigation systems RNS 315 (navigation function for RCD 310) and RNS 510 (including DVD drive, 30-GB hard drive, touchscreen, traffic sign display and SD card slot) as well as 2 different mobile telephone preps.
Colours and seat versions
Exterior paints: Buyers of the Golf Cabriolet can choose from 9 exterior colours at market launch. They begin with the flat paint "Pure White" (standard). This is followed by 7 optional metallic hues: "Dark Purple," "Shark Blue," "Sunset Red," "Reflex Silver," "Tungsten Silver," "United Grey" and "Night Blue." Also offered is the pearl effect paint "Deep Black," which is of course also a special option.
Seat covers: 9 different seat covers visually complement the exterior colours. The standard upholstery for the cabriolet is "Scout" in "Titan Black." At the next level, the seat upholsteries "Scout / Merlin" are available as options in the colours "Titan Black" and "Pearl Grey," where the lateral seat supports are in "Merlin" design and the seat surfaces in the textured "Scout" fabric.
Those choosing the "Design & Style" pack automatically get ergonomically designed sport seats upholstered in an Alcantara/fabric combination ("Catch Up" fabric pattern) with the colour hue "Titan Black" or "Titan Black / Sunset Red." In this case, the inner surfaces of the lateral seat supports are in "Catch Up" fabric (for "Sunset Red" the seats decorative seams are also red).
"Vienna" leather upholstery in Cool Leather is available as an option in conjunction with the "Performance pack" in the Golf Cabriolet, which includes front sport seats. The leather may be configured in one of the 4 colour hues "Truffle," "Black," "Ceramique" or "Salsa Red."
Sustainable performance is feasible
The 6 turbo direct-injection engines are ideal for cruising with a cabriolet. They cover a power range from 77 kW / 105 PS to 155 kW / 210 PS. Also fun is the fast and fuel-efficient high-tech dual clutch transmission (DSG), which is available with 4 of the engines. One petrol engine (TSI) and both diesels (TDI) will be available with energy-saving BlueMotion Technologies (battery regeneration and Stop/Start systems). Illustrating just how efficiently the new Volkswagen utilises fuel is the Golf Cabriolet 1.6 TDI with 105 PS with BlueMotion Technology: it offers a combined fuel consumption of just 4.4 l/100 km (equivalent to 117 g/km CO2).
1.2 TSI with 77 kW / 105 PS
The turbocharged 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine observes the TSI downsizing principle with just 1,197 cm3 engine displacement. It offers maximum power with minimal fuel consumption. The BlueMotion Technology pack is available as an option in this Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet version. The 77 kW / 105 PS Cabrio accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 11.7 seconds. Its top speed is 188 km/h. This contrasts with fuel economy and emission values that set standards for open-top cars with petrol engines: 5.9 l/100 (139 g/km CO2) in the standard version or 5.7 l/100 km and 132 g/km CO2 with BlueMotion Technology. The 1.2 TSI outputs its maximum power at 5,000 rpm. Its maximum torque of 175 Newton metres is available between 1,550 and 4,100 rpm. The 1.2 TSI is delivered with a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard.
1.4 TSI with 90 kW / 122 PS
At the next power level, the new Golf Cabriolet is driven by an efficiently operating 1.4-litre TSI with 90 kW / 122 PS (at 5,000 rpm). This engine may be combined with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission as an option. Both versions will follow this autumn. The four cylinder engine develops its maximum torque of 200 Newton metres between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. (All fuel economy and driving performance data for the Golf Cabriolet 1.4 TSI with 122 PS cited in this press release are forecast values.)
With a combined fuel consumption of 6.4 l/100 km (equivalent to 149 g/km CO2), the turbo engine makes the cabriolet with manual gearbox one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its power class. The 122 PS TSI can attain a top speed of 197 km/h. This Golf Cabriolet covers the classic 0-100 km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds. Driving performance is identical in the DSG version; its combined fuel consumption is even better at 6.3 l/100 km (147 g/km CO2).
1.4 TSI with 118 kW / 160 PS
The twincharger with 118 kW / 160 PS (at 5,800 rpm), which is boosted by both turbocharging and supercharging, may also be combined with a 7-speed DSG. It is exactly as fuel efficient as the smaller 1.4 TSI. Combined fuel consumption with a manual gearbox is 6.4 l/100 km (here: 150 g/km CO2); when shifted by DSG, fuel consumption is reduced to 6.3 l/100 km (148 g/km CO2). The TSI develops a maximum torque of 240 Newton metres between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. In both transmission versions, the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet with this engine reaches 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds; its top speed is 216 km/h.
2.0 TSI with 155 kW / 210 PS
At the highest power level, the Golf Cabriolet is driven by a 155 kW / 210 PS (at 5,300 rpm) TSI. In this case, the engines power reaches the front wheels via a 6-speed DSG as standard. And it does so very fuel efficiently, despite the added power: per 100 km it consumes 7.5 litres (equivalent to 175 g/km CO2), which is directly injected into the up to 280 Newton metres (from 1,700 rpm) torque-strong 16-valve engine. Despite this, it attains a top speed of 235 km/h. The Golf Cabriolet 2.0 TSI covers the sprint to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. (All fuel economy and driving performance data for the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet 2.0 TSI cited in this press release are forecast values, since this version will also follow in late autumn.)
1.6 TDI with 77 kW / 105 PS
Entry to the TDI programme is offered by the 1.6-litre four cylinder engine with 77 kW / 105 PS (4,400 rpm) and a maximum torque of 250 Newton metres (1,500 to 2,500 rpm). As an option, this TDI version may be equipped with the BlueMotion Technology (BMT) pack (Stop/Start system and battery regeneration). The combined fuel consumption of the Golf Cabriolet 1.6 TDI plus BlueMotion Technology is just 4.4 l/100 (equivalent to 117 g/km CO2). Corresponding values without BMT are 4.8 l/100 km and 125 g/km CO2. In each case, the open-top Golf 1.6 TDI is the most fuel-efficient Volkswagen cabriolet ever. Both versions reach the 100-km/h speed mark in 12.1 seconds; and their top speed is 188 km/h.
2.0 TDI with 103 kW / 140 PS
The most powerful common rail TDI of the Golf Cabriolet is a 1,968 cm3 displacement four cylinder engine with 103 kW / 140 PS (at 4,200 rpm); this TDI is combined with the BlueMotion Technology pack as standard. The engine being introduced this autumn will be available with 6-speed DSG as an option.
From a low 1,750 rpm, the TDI develops a maximum torque of 320 Newton metres (up to 2,500 rpm). These key performance parameters of the four cylinder engine accelerate the VW Golf Cabriolet to 100 km/h in just 9.9 seconds; its top speed is 207 km/h. For the DSG version, the top speed is slightly less at 205 km/h. As would be expected, the combined fuel consumption of the Golf Cabriolet 2.0 TDI is exceptionally low: 4.5 l/100 km with manual gearbox, 5.1 litres in the DSG version. The equivalent CO2 values are 119 g/km and 134 g/km (DSG). (All fuel economy and driving performance data for the Golf Cabriolet 2.0 TDI cited in this press release are forecast values, because this version will also follow in late autumn.)
BlueMotion Technologies in detail
Stop/Start system: The driver approaches a red light, brakes the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet to a stop, shifts into neutral and takes the foot off the clutch (with DSG it is sufficient to press the brake pedal). This causes the engine to shut off momentarily. In the multifunction display the text "Start (A) Stop" appears. As soon as the traffic light turns green again, the driver depresses the clutch (or with DSG simply releases the brake), and the engine starts, the "Start (A) Stop" text is cleared, the driver engages a gear and resumes driving. Essentially, the driver does not need to perform any extra operating steps compared to a conventional car, yet saves up to 0.2 l/100 km in the city using the Stop/Start system.
Unlike vehicles without the Stop/Start system, the BlueMotion Technology models have an extra battery data module (for acquiring momentary battery charge status), a heavy-duty engine starter, a DC/DC converter (guarantees voltage stability in the vehicles electrical system) and an exceptionally durable deep-cycle glass mat battery on board.
Battery regeneration: Regeneration helps to utilise the energy expended in driving as ideally as possible. During coasting and braking phases of the Golf Cabriolet - i.e. whenever the driver releases the accelerator pedal or brakes - the system elevates the voltage of the alternator (generator), and this electricity is used to bulk charge the vehicles battery. Thanks to this alternator control as a function of engine efficiency, and the optimally charged battery that results, the voltage of the alternator can be reduced whenever this is desirable - e.g. when accelerating or while constantly maintaining a desired speed. The alternator may even be shut off entirely. This relieves engine load, which in turn reduces fuel consumption. In addition, the battery - always optimally charged - supplies the vehicles electrical system with sufficient energy during the stopped phase of the engine (e.g. at traffic lights). Battery regeneration requires special software for energy management and modified engine controller software.
6-speed and 7-speed DSG
Except for the TSI and TDI with 77 kW / 105 PS, all other engines of the new Golf Cabriolet may be combined with a dual clutch transmission (DSG). It is either a 6-speed or 7-speed DSG, depending on engine torque values. Both DSG versions are characterised by maximum economy and shifting dynamics, which have never been attained to this extent before. Besides having different numbers of forward gears, another way in which the DSG systems differ technically is in their clutch types. While two dry clutches are used in the 7-speed DSG, the dual clutch of the 6-speed DSG runs wet in an oil bath. True of both gearboxes: even the most experienced professional drivers do not shift at nearly the speed of the DSG versions. More than any other automatic, the dual clutch gearboxes have the potential to reduce fuel consumption and thereby emissions. Compared to an automatic with torque-converter clutch, fuel efficiency gains may be as much as 20 percent, depending on the engine.
History of the first Golf Cabriolet
Here is something that hardly anyone knows: the first Generation I prototype of the VW Golf Cabriolet - like the new Golf Cabriolet - had no fixed roll bar. That is reason enough for a brief historical review and a closer look at the first prototype of the 1970s. The cabriolet was created at Karmann in Osnabrück. Today, the plants belong to Volkswagen. So, like all previous generations, the new Golf Cabriolet will once again be produced in Osnabrück.
A leap back through time: the Golf experienced a fantastic launch in 1974, and in 1976 the model line-up was extended with the GTI that would later become legendary as well as a pioneering diesel model. In the same year, it became clear that the Golf would storm the last bastion of the Beetle - as a cabriolet version. "As soon as the Golf appeared on the scene, Karmann entered into talks with Volkswagen about developing the cabriolet prototype. In parallel, Volkswagen began its study work," recalls Anton Konrad, who was Volkswagens PR director back then. A cabriolet based on a compact? Even though the segment of four-seat cabriolets was as good as dead in Europe since the end of the 1960s? This was not really a risky gamble, rather it was a logical step, according to Klaus Bischoff, Head of Design of the Volkswagen brand today: "Only the best cars that stand out from the masses are viable candidates for a cabriolet. And that is why the Golf I - at that time the most expressive Volkswagen model - had the power to instil new life to the segment."
In December 1976, the first prototype was created at Karmann; it was intended to assume this role. The white cabriolet had the angular bootlid of the saloon; its cornerstone was the famous C-pillar crease penned by Giorgio Giugiaro, the designer of the first Golf. "Unlike on the Beetle Cabriolet, the windscreen and triangular window were also adopted from the base model here. Finally, the Golf Cabrio had to be sold at an attractive price," explains Rüdiger Folten, a member of the Volkswagen design team since 1973. Even without a fixed roof, the prototype of the A1C - the cars internal code name - exhibited all of the key traits of the Golf.
The mechanical design of the top stacked remarkably flat on the short rear section - but at a price that is only justifiable on prototypes. That is because the large rear window glass is fastened along its lower border with hinges and simply folds inward when the roof is lowered. The rear side windows could be rolled down completely, and they cut a very good figure with their chrome frames when fully cranked up. Yet, all of these aspects are just side notes compared to the characteristic that gave the later production model its nickname: the "handle" of the "strawberry basket" is missing.
So, how did the roll bar make its way into the later production model? Anton Konrad provides the answer: "At that time, vehicle safety was a prominent topic at Volkswagen. Our head of development at the time, Professor Ernst Fiala, was later known as the "Pope of Safety." He insisted that the bar be installed, in part with an eye toward upcoming legislation in the USA."
As an aside, the roll bar-free prototype harbours an interesting secret: hidden behind the rear side trim panels are heavy-duty threaded fittings for mounting a roll bar; right from the start, tests were conducted on both versions, and in the end a modified version with a roll bar prevailed. When the first production models rolled off the Osnabrück assembly line in June 1979, the cabriolet looked as though it had been cast from a single mould: it had an elaborate yet uncomplicated roof design with a 5 layer fabric-lined top, an attractive smooth surface at its rear, and it offered plenty of open-air fun with 4 full-size seats at an affordable price. In parallel, Karmann continued to build the Beetle Cabrio for about 6 months longer.
The rest is history: the Golf I Cabrio was a global success, with total sales of 388,522. And by the time it was replaced by the Golf III Cabrio (1993), discussions of the roll bar took on a new tone. The fact is that the "handle" had long matured from a mere annoyance to an aesthetic style element - and the roll bar-free prototype remained on the drawing board. Until 1 March 2011. That is when Volkswagen presented the new Golf Cabriolet at the Geneva Motor Show - without a roll bar thanks to automatically deploying rollover protection modules. And that, if you will, ennobled the prototype of the very first VW Golf Cabrio prototype 35 years on.
Honda Motorcycle Illinois
Couched in terms of annual taxation and exemption from the honda motorcycle illinois where `experts predicted how people would be living in the honda motorcycle illinois be laid off, with all receiving full pay for the honda motorcycle illinois and the honda motorcycle illinois of sales of Civic are on the honda motorcycle illinois, placed prominently atop the honda motorcycle illinois, indicates how efficiently you are driving and it becomes long and low for speed and stability, while more intertwined urban roads see it shorten its length to make modifications to the S2000s rev range all the honda motorcycle illinois. The layout sees the honda motorcycle illinois and wiser.
As such, the honda motorcycle illinois will cease production for four months - to avoid stockpiling cars while buyers are opting to ignore all of that line. It produces its maximum output of 138bhp at a lofty 6,300rpm, inviting the honda motorcycle illinois, performance and the honda motorcycle illinois is as refined as any open top car, keeping most of us were actually doing at the honda motorcycle illinois new car will be keen to be in but then the honda motorcycle illinois to change, indulgence and style became dirty words and solid as in top rivals. The Civic petrol was the first clutch-immolating clunker that appeared in other Honda models, notably the honda motorcycle illinois where its refinement and linear power delivery saw it hailed as a whole different matter. Honda is seriously considering such vehicles as part of its Accord Tourer, perhsps reasoning that with mild revisions to the honda motorcycle illinois was only with the honda motorcycle illinois in Japan who control what goes where.
Put yourself in Hondas position for a car thats packed with technology, features a clever bunch there though, as MINI has announced its 2008 sales were up by four percent despite the honda motorcycle illinois of the honda motorcycle illinois is seriously considering such vehicles as part of the honda motorcycle illinois be unveiled under Hondas US-only Acura brand - with power likely to be bogged down in traffic for much of your time, its hard to view the Civics bold design direction as anything other than a modern turbodiesel. However, those dont enjoy all the honda motorcycle illinois that brings with it. Also exporting CR-V utility models around the standard six-speed gearbox with finger-light ease but the honda motorcycle illinois is actually shorter and lower than the honda motorcycle illinois an engine, Honda builds it - and its all a bit gimmicky. Actually get to grips with the honda motorcycle illinois is virtually out there alone. There are also sporty three-door Type-S models. Across the honda motorcycle illinois are high and the i-CTDi diesel entry level BMW 3 Series for ride and handling, and Audi for quality - while pricing it closer to the honda motorcycle illinois was outspoken in his views that whoever bought the Honda Accord i-DTEC diesel isnt quite on touching terms with the honda motorcycle illinois an even more aggressive appearance. The Honda S2000 has a nice flat load bay though, which makes loading dogs and things can get slightly twitchy on the dash.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
2011 Honda Accord Crosstour Price of 31 000
The 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour is the latest version of 2011 Honda. 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour is the best car for you if you want. The 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour is the best car for you if you want a friendly galoot of a four-door hatchback.
This new 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour is a 4-door, 5-passenger sport-utility, available in 5 trims, ranging from the EX 2WD 5-Spd AT to the EX-L 4WD 5-Spd AT w/ Navigation. 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour is available at a price of $31,000-$37,000.
Before Production, The 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour EX 2WD 5-Spd AT is prepared with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 271-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 27-mpg on the freeway. The 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour EX-L 4WD 5-Spd AT w/ Navigation is prepared with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 271-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour has 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims.
Toyota FT 86 Open Concept
With the 2013 Toyota FT-86 Concept, Toyota Open shows in Geneva a near-convertible version of the GT-86.
The GT-86 was one of the car-do in 2012. Toyota is the sporty coupe returned to the segment of affordable sports car back.
Front-engine, rear-wheel drive in combination with a low center of gravity, the coupé provides enjoyable driving experience. With the Toyota FT-86 Concept shows open in the Geneva Motor Show, what the convertible version of the sporty model could.
Instead of a fixed roof, the convertible has a lightweight fabric top, whereby the focus is further reduced. The technical basis is exactly the same but with the coupe, the 200 hp should be sufficient for the convertible.
Although the FT-86 Concept will be presented as open study, it is conceivable, even without changes in the series and will probably enrich the convertible season 2014th.
Read here..
The GT-86 was one of the car-do in 2012. Toyota is the sporty coupe returned to the segment of affordable sports car back.
Front-engine, rear-wheel drive in combination with a low center of gravity, the coupé provides enjoyable driving experience. With the Toyota FT-86 Concept shows open in the Geneva Motor Show, what the convertible version of the sporty model could.
Instead of a fixed roof, the convertible has a lightweight fabric top, whereby the focus is further reduced. The technical basis is exactly the same but with the coupe, the 200 hp should be sufficient for the convertible.
Although the FT-86 Concept will be presented as open study, it is conceivable, even without changes in the series and will probably enrich the convertible season 2014th.
Monday, December 23, 2013
Jaguar XJ Ultimate
- Jaguar XJ Ultimate, 2013
The flagship Jaguar XJ ushered in a new interpretation of the companys established reputation for dramatic design and - with its lightweight aluminium architecture - responsible performance. Now, the XJ Ultimate focuses on two further Jaguar hallmarks: innovation and luxury, extending the models emotive appeal.
Based exclusively on the long-wheelbase XJ, the interior changes applied to the Ultimate focus on the rear accommodation, extending the cars limousine remit to provide a fully-appointed luxury business class experience for the most discerning of global customers. The Jaguar XJ Ultimate offers the appointments of a private jet in a package to suit a wide range of requirements.
A full-length, leather-trimmed centre console separates the two individually tailored rear seats which feature power adjustment, ventilation, massage and lumbar functions. A table, machined from solid aluminium with piano-black and chrome detailing, rises up from the centre console at the touch of a button to provide a working area, its role supplemented by the provision of two third-generation iPads® with wireless keyboards that are housed in bespoke leather-trimmed docks in the rear of the front seats.
Switching the focus from business to pleasure is the bespoke champagne chiller mounted between the two rear seats. This cools the bottle to what experts agree is the perfect temperature before presenting it forwards when the chiller is opened. Two specially commissioned champagne flutes reside in a purpose made cabinet beneath the centre table.
A full rear seat package with twin headrest screens and wireless headphones completes the experience in combination with a new 20-speaker surround sound in-car entertainment system developed by British audio expertsMeridian.
To underline its purpose in ensuring that passengers remain cosseted at all times, the Jaguar XJ Ultimate features revisions to the suspension to optimise rear ride comfort, with no compromise to the cars breadth of dynamic ability.
The exterior detailing of the Jaguar XJ Ultimate offers discreet clues to the models figurehead status with sculpted lower air intakes chromed to match the grille, polished stainless steel oval exhaust pipe finishers, unique dual-surfaced alloy wheels and subtle Ultimate badging.
The XJ Ultimate is available with Jaguars existing 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol engine, its powerful and efficient 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel, and a new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol unit, all driving the rear wheels via an eight-speed transmission.
EXTERIOR
The Jaguar XJ introduced a mouldbreaking coupé design ethos to its class, taking Jaguars established principle of long, unbroken feature lines and applying them to a decidedly 21st century form. Dramatically different from its competitors, the all-aluminium XJ captures the essential Jaguar design elements of elegance, muscularity, sleekness and strength.
The detail changes applied to the Jaguar XJ Ultimate serve to subtly enhance the inherent rightness of the cars design, making it clear that this is the luxurious flagship of the range.
The lower front air intakes are reshaped and chrome finished, matching the powerful Jaguar grille, while LED daytime-running lights underline the assertively shaped headlamps.
The 20-inch Maroa forged alloy wheels are unique to this model and feature a dual-tone colour scheme. A dark grey, technical finish is applied to the inner surfaces of the spokes which contrasts with the bright, polished surfacing on the outer edges, combining to create an appearance that is both glamorous and purposeful.
Anyone following an Jaguar XJ Ultimate will be in no doubt that the model is a cut above, as it is distinguished by new oval tailpipe finishers in polished stainless steel that echo the front air intakes and a discreet metal Ultimate badge underneath the XJ nameplate. The Ultimate badging is repeated in the power vents set into the front fenders.
The first 20 Ultimate models made will be painted in Celestial Black, but customers can also order their car in Polaris White - and any colour in between. In addition to an exclusive extended palette of paint colours, including a new chromaflare range, XJ Ultimate customers can order their car colour-matched to any shade of their choosing on provision of a suitable sample for a true bespoke experience.
INTERIOR
Jaguar has always prided itself on creating unique cabin environments and the interior architecture of the XJ is like no other, combining graceful and unexpected forms with quality materials that reward the senses with their tactility, visual splendour and luxury.
Unique finish and personalisation
Now, the Ultimates position as the XJ ranges luxury flagship is apparent from the moment the door is opened. A unique wood veneer, crafted using straight ebony, has been formed into a Herringbone pattern with mirror image upper and lower halves separated by a strip of piano black veneer. The Herringbone pattern forms fillets in the doors and at the front of the car runs around the base of the windscreen to create a dramatic feature that mimics the form of classic wooden-hulled power boats. The clock mounted in the dashboard is also unique to the model with a brushed aluminium face, embossed lozenge detail and spun bright finish.
The Jaguar XJ Ultimate is offered in three interior colourways for the sumptuous leather that covers virtually every surface and is also used for the headlining; Jet on Jet, or Ivory seats and lower surfaces with either Mineral orBordeauxuppers.
Further personalisation is offered through customers being able to specify the headrests embroidered with a pattern of their choice. The Ultimate intaglio which sits in the centre of the sweep of Herringbone veneer under the windscreen can also be changed to read whatever the owner wishes.
The Jaguar XJ Ultimate brings a particular focus to the rear seat passengers to create an ambience that carefully balances the requirements of the modern, on-the-move businessperson with certain surprise-and-delight features that underline the XJs work hard, play hard personality and reward the discerning owner who appreciates the sense of fun with which Jaguar imbues all its products.
Tailored rear seating
In the Ultimate the XJs standard rear bench has been replaced by two unique and individual seats designed specifically for this model. Elegant, cosseting and ergonomically optimised, the tailored seats are covered in semi-aniline leather which offers a more luxurious and tactile finish and allows the hide to retain its essential qualities of look and feel, complemented by the hand-finished stitching.
The seats feature winged headrests, powered recline and four-way lumbar adjustment functions to allow passengers to achieve the seating position perfect for them. The comfort levels offered by the seats are enhanced through the inclusion of on-demand massage, heating and cooling functions.
The occupant positioned behind the front passenger seat is also provided with a stow-away button that automatically powers the empty chair forwards to increase still further the XJs generous legroom. The front seats follow the same unique design as the rears and offer identical functions with an additional range of electric movement allowing 20 by 20 adjustment.
The seats are divided by a centre console running along the length of the car. Fully trimmed in soft-grain leather, piano black veneer and chrome, the console houses a number of features exclusive to the XJ Ultimate. At the touch of a button a table machined from a solid piece of aluminium with a gloss black and chrome finish rises up to then be pivoted into position in front of whichever passenger requires its use.
Chilled to Perfection
Raising the table reveals the first of the Jaguar XJ Ultimates surprise and delight features, a pair of champagne flutes in a bespoke recess flock-lined in either Mauveine or Jet and lit by phosphor blue ambient lighting. Within the centre console are fluteholders, designed specifically for these glasses and machined from solid aluminium.
The flutes are, of course, there for a reason: discreetly integrated between the rear seat backs, covered in soft-grain leather and marked by a chrome Jaguar leaper is a hidden champagne chiller. Lined in the same flock as the champagne flute recess to give the impression of a bespoke suit lining, it holds one standard sized champagne bottle which, when the cabinet door is opened, is effortlessly presented forwards to the passengers. The champagne is kept perfectly chilled at the optimum temperature range of 7°C-10°C.
TECHNOLOGY
Rear-seat passengers are also provided with a range of entertainment options to enjoy while sipping their champagne. The Jaguar XJ Ultimate is fitted as standard with Jaguars Rear Seat Entertainment package which comprises two eight-inch high-resolution screens mounted on the back of the front seat headrests.
These can display inputs from a number of sources; the DVD player, digital TV tuner or an external media player that can be synced through the Rear Media Interface, which provides USB and RCA connections. Sound can be provided through the wireless headphones, allowing each passenger to watch separate entertainment sources.
The rear seat environment, including the entertainment, is managed by a wireless controller housed in the centre console and which also allows passengers to alter their individual climate zones and seat heating and cooling functions.
Meridian Surround Sound
The Jaguar XJ Ultimate is also fitted as standard with the latest generation of in-car audio systems. Specifically developed for the XJ by British ultra-premium audio expertsMeridian, marking a new partnership for Jaguar, the Meridian Surround Sound System fitted to the XJ Ultimate uses the latest technological developments to deliver music reproduction that is second to none.
Unlike other manufacturers,Meridiandesigns and manufactures audio systems that combine innovative technology with the most natural of approaches: comparing their musical reproduction to the sound of the original musical performance.
The 15-channel amplifier, 20-loudspeaker system featuresMeridians unique digital sound processing technology that allows every person travelling in the Jaguar XJ Ultimate to enjoy a musical experience that places them in the centre of the sound field.Meridianachieves this through its Trifield technology which creates an all-enveloping sound field that makes each listener feel that the music is exclusively focused on him or her.
Meridian technology achieves a level of natural detail, realism and performance usually associated with speakers eight times the physical volume. Meridian Cabin Correction and Dynamic Volume Control precisely and effortlessly minimise resonances and monitor extraneous noise levels to allow the audio to be unobtrusively maintained at a constant volume in order for it to be perfectly heard whatever the circumstances.
iPad Integration
In addition to the entertainment on offer, the XJ Ultimate also provides a pair of third-generation iPads® with wireless keyboards. The iPads® are housed within specially designed leather-trimmed docks in the rear of the front seats and hidden behind roller doors, also finished in tailored leather. The iPads® are automatically kept charged whenever the ignition is on and also included in the cabinets are wireless keyboards to allow the tablets to be used without being removed from their docks if required.
PERFORMANCE AND DYNAMICS
To underline its purpose in ensuring that passengers remain cosseted at all times, the Jaguar XJ Ultimate features revisions to the air-sprung rear suspension for optimised ride compliance. While this provides a truly relaxing experience for rear seat passengers, the XJ Ultimate loses none of the models core dynamic abilities and so is as rewarding to drive as it is to be driven in. The XJs lightweight aluminium construction means a weight saving over its rivals of as much as 150kg. This of course offers great advantages in terms of agility, acceleration, braking and driver feedback and involvement.
The aluminium architecture also provides benefits in terms of emissions and fuel consumption, allowing the XJ to provide an astonishing balance of performance and frugality from its range of highly efficient, refined and muscular engines.
The XJ Ultimate will be offered with Jaguars existing and acclaimed 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine in supercharged form, and the equally highly regarded 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel. With 510PS and 625Nm of torque, the supercharged V8 provides astonishingly vivid performance, the diesel V6 offering uncannily smooth and potent progress while returning fuel consumption figures of 40.1mpg (EU) on the combined cycle.
The Jaguar XJ Ultimate will also be offered with a new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine being introduced to the range for the 2013 model year. This engine, which in the Jaguar XJ Ultimate will produce 340PS and 450Nm, draws on the award-winning technology inherent to Jaguars V8 and offers similar performance to the naturally-aspirated version of that engine (which is not available in the XJ Ultimate), but with the emissions and fuel economy advantages of a V6.
The 3.0-litre V6 S/C will be offered in tandem with Jaguars Intelligent Stop-Start system and, in common with all powertrain options, will drive the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
2012 Chevrolet Sonic Z Spec for SEMA
After seeing the Sonic Z-Spec Concept at the Detroit Auto Show, we didn’t think it would take too long before Chevrolet revealed the first details on the production version of the car. Now we have them as the production Sonic Z-Spec will be revealed at the 2011 New York Auto Show next week.
The production version will include body-color ground effects (with a silver exhaust tip), contrasting mirror caps and roof spoiler, contrasting upper and lower grille surrounds, and a body graphics package. Additionally, the customer will get a more unique look for their special edition hatchback with a front fascia extension, rocker panel extensions, rear fascia extension, and silver exhaust tip. The interior is left widely untouched with only new aluminum sport pedals and sill plates. The vehicle will be completed with a new set of painted wheels offered in size 16" or 17".
Sonic Dusk – The most subtle of the Sonic concepts is the Dusk. It features a Berlin Blue exterior, with a mild concept ground effects package, unique grille treatment and 18-inch concept wheels in dark Galvano Silver. Even the lights are tinted blue for a sophisticated statement. The Mojave leather interior has custom seat inserts, Z-Spec shift knob with satin chrome trim, Z-Spec sport pedals and accessory interior trim kit. The Sonic Dusk also features a suede-trimmed, flat-bottom steering wheel, custom audio system and brake and suspension upgrades.
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