The CMT-380 serial hybrid sports car is built on a Factory Five Racing kit car platform.
In an unlikely alliance, Capstone, manufacturer of electricity-generating microturbines, and Electronic Arts Chief Creative Director Richard Hilleman have built a hybrid sports car for the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show. The CMT-380 uses an electric power train with a range-extending diesel-fueled microturbine. A lithium polymer battery pack gives the CMT-380 80 miles of pure electric range, and the microturbine generates power for an additional 500 miles.
The car itself is built on a kit car platform, the Factory Five Racing GTM supercar. Capstone cites performance figures of 3.9 seconds to 60mph and a 150mph top speed. Impressively, the microturbine burns its fuel so cleanly that no catalytic converter or other exhaust treatment is needed for the car to meet California's Air Resources Board emissions requirements.
Not the first name that comes to mind in the automotive industry, Capstone has been making microturbines for stationary facilities and hybrid public transport vehicles since 1988. The microturbine in the CMT-380 is the company's smallest, generating 30 kilowatts. Capstone claims many benefits of its microturbine technology over an internal combustion engine, such as compact size, low maintenance, and efficient operation.
But forget buying your own CMT-380. Capstone says it may build a limited number based on interest at the Los Angeles Auto Show, but the car really serves as a demonstration of microturbine technology. Capstone will look for interest in the technology from automakers.
Chevrolet has confirmed details and unveiled images of the 2011 Cruze compact sedan, which is set to be revealed in the sheet metal at the 2009 LA Auto Show on December 2. Set to compete directly with the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet expects the Cruze to stand out because of its expected highway fuel economy of 40 mpg.
The Cruze achieves this 40 mpg rating (and a cruising range of more than 500 miles) when equipped with its new, small-displacement Ecotec 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing. Standard on LT and LTZ models, the Ecotec 1.4L engine develops an estimated 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque.
Stepping over to the LS model nets you, among other things, a larger displacement 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine and access to a larger wheel and tire package. With either engine, the Cruze is available with automatic and manual transmissions, both of which are six-speed units.
Keeping the Cruze connected to the road is a MacPherson strut suspension up front and a Watts Z-link independent suspension in the rear, which, according to Chevy, helps to keep the Cruze's handling responses symmetrical on both left-hand and right-hand turns. Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover mitigation, traction control, antilock brakes and electric power steering also do their part to keep the Cruze's 16-, 17-, or 18-inch wheels on the tarmac.
According to Chevy, the Cruze's interior is "Corvette-inspired."
Meanwhile, inside the "Corvette-inspired" cabin, the Cruze benefits from an array of noise canceling technologies, from hydraulic ride bushings to nylon baffles filled with sound-absorbent foam in the body to improved weather seals and tighter panel gap tolerances. Expect a reasonable list of infotainment technologies, including a six-speaker stereo system with MP3 playback capability, an auxiliary jack for personal playback devices as standard with available XM Satellite Radio, and OnStar. Premium audio comes in the form of a Pioneer sound system with a USB port for iPod operation, Bluetooth, and navigation.
The full list of cabin technologies hasn't been carved in stone yet and much can change between now and the Cruze's launch in third-quarter 2010. Stay tuned to our coverage of the 2009 LA Auto Show for more details as they emerge.
This Mazda2 gets custom wheels and a roof rack to celebrate its U.S. debut. The Mazda Mazda2, 2008 World Car of the Year, finally gets its North American debut in U.S. production trim. However, while the diminutive B-segment hatch was certainly on display at the 2009 LA Auto Show, Mazda was surprisingly shy with the details. We weren't even allowed to take interior photos, which doesn't exactly bode well for a vehicle that's scheduled to launch as early as summer 2010.
What we do know is that the Mazda2 will feature a front MacPherson strut and rear torsion-beam axle setup that's similar to the European variant. The subcompact is designed with weight reduction and aerodynamics in mind, which--when combined with whatever small displacement engine finds its way under the Mazda2's hood--should equate to respectable fuel economy. However, Mazda is also being tight lipped about the fuel economy estimates as well.
Based on what we know about the Euro-variant, we expect the Mazda Mazda2 to be powered by a gasoline engine displacing somewhere between 1.3 and 1.5-liters and sipping fuel at a rate somewhere about 35 mpg. Final numbers remain to be seen, so stay tuned for more details as they emerge.
Audi/VW's TDI technology grabs a Green Car of the Year twofer. For the second year in a row, the Green Car of the Year award has been handed to a clean diesel vehicle. This time around, it's the 2010 Audi A3 TDI and its 2.0-liter direct-injected turbo-diesel engine that's beaten its way to the top of a field populated mostly with gas-electric hybrids from Toyota, Mercury, and Honda.
Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of the Green Car Journal, which sponsors the award, cites the A3's EPA-estimated 42 highway mpg, five-seater hatchback functionality, and fun driving experience seasoned with healthy portions of low-end torque as the reasons for its success.
The Green Car of the Year is awarded annually at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Previous winners of the award include the Volkswagen Jetta TDI, the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, the Toyota Camry Hybrid, and the Mercury Mariner Hybrid.
Infiniti chose an alternate location to show off its M56 during the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Infiniti didn't make it to the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, but the company was near by, showing its 2011 Infiniti M56 in Beverly Hills. The update to Infiniti's top model is an attempt to stay competitive with luxury brands Mercedes-Benz and Lexus, while maintaining a performance focus. As such, the M56 gets a revised interior with some nice woodwork, new running gear, and a raft of driver-aid technologies.
Along with blind-spot detection and lane departure warning, Infiniti adds lane drift prevention, which keeps the car from crossing a lane line by braking the offside wheels a little. This technology can prevent a sleepy driver from going off the road, or a distracted driver from changing lanes into an occupied lane. We've tested this technology previously and found it easily overcome, so it won't prevent a driver making an emergency lane change.
The car also has an adaptive cruise control option, an around-view camera that makes maneuvering through tight parking garages easier, and a new technology called Eco pedal. This last feature pushes back slightly on the gas pedal for heavy-footed drivers as a means of training people to drive more economically. This feature can be easily turned off.
The new power train in the M56 includes a seven-speed automatic transmission and a direct injection 5.6-liter V-8, producing 420 horsepower. This engine is more powerful yet more economical than the outgoing 4.5-liter V-8. The M model is also available as an M37, with a 3.7-liter V-6.
When Ford launched the revised Mustang last year, we were pretty bummed to learn that there wasn't a new power plant to go along with the improved aesthetic. At the 2009 LA Auto Show, this inequity has been rectified with a new 3.7-liter Duratec V-6 that boosts engine output to 305 horsepower while raising fuel economy to an estimated 30 mpg on the highway. For the first time ever, a V-6 Mustang is nothing to be ashamed of.
We've already taken a look at how the Duratec achieves such power and economy through a combination of weight and friction reduction, along with a new variable valve timing system. Spinning the crank to the tune of 305 horsepower means that the Mustang is now more powerful than the Chevrolet Camaro (304 horsepower). Of course, a one pony gap isn't much to write home about, but bragging rights are bragging rights.
Along with the new heart, the Mustang receives a few aero tweaks to the front end and undercarriage that will likely be invisible to all but the most diehard 'Stang lovers. Revised spring rates and a new thicker rear anitroll bar also help the Mustang V-6 to handle slightly better, but an optional Performance Package adds the suspension and stability control programming of the Mustang GT, bringing the V-6 model dangerously close to the V-8 in terms of performance--at least, until the new GT is revealed at the Detroit Show in January.
The Hyundai Sonata midsized sedan will be powered by a variety of four-cylinder engines.
Debuting at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata is the first vehicle to feature Hyundai's "Fluidic Sculpture" design language--"Fluidic Sculpture" obviously being market-speak for bulbous and swoopy. The Sonata will debut with a 2.4-liter gasoline direct injection engine and a pair of six-speed transmissions, one automatic and one manual. However by the end of 2010, a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and a Hybrid Blue Drive model are set to join the lineup. However, the Sonata will not get a V6. This is a four-banger only party. The 2.4-liter launch engine will output 198 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, while delivering 23 city/35 highway mpg. A performance oriented SE model boosts the horsepower to and even 200-ponies and adds uprated suspension components.
Cabin tech packages include a DVD/MP3-compatible Dimension audio premium audio system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen navigation system that is optional on the GLS and SE trims. Stepping up to the luxury-oriented Limited trim adds HD Radio and makes a navigation-free version of the Dimension audio system a standard feature, as well as opening up the option to choose a 400-watt Infinity audio system with touchscreen navigation. Regardless of trim, choosing the premium audio option also nets a touchscreen navigation system. The nav system's data is stored on 8GB of flash memory, so we expect that it's a similar system to the one found in the Genesis Coupe.
XM satellite radio is standard (with three months of service included), as well as access to XM NavTraffic and XM Data Services when equipped with navigation. Also standard are Bluetooth handsfree connectivity and iPod/USB connectivity. If Hyundai's Elantra Touring and Genesis coupe and sedan are any indication of the direction the Korean automaker is heading, we may find the new Sonata stealing a few Camry and Accord sales when it debuts in 2010.
Mini's new concept is based on its upcoming crossover model.
Before its upcoming crossover enters production in 2010, Mini is already using this new platform for a concept.
Mini removed doors and roof to get passengers in touch with nature.
For the Beachcomber, Mini stripped off the doors and roof, opening up the cabin like a dune buggy or jeep. Lest occupants suffer sunburn or freezing rain, Mini includes what it calls "lightweight door and roof elements" that can be "installed within a few minutes."
For its sand-crawling duties, the Beachcomber uses a new all-wheel-drive that Mini calls ALL4, which will be a feature of the upcoming crossover. The suspension is raised, as well, with large wheels providing extra ground clearance.
Mini has used concepts in the past to herald its upcoming new models, such as the Mini Clubman. But, at least as far as North America is concerned, the Beachcomber heralds nothing. When the Mini crossover enters production next year, it won't be sold in North America.
The Mini Beachcomber will debut at the 2010 Detroit auto show.
Well, we know three things: it's a Toyota; it's a hybrid; and it's green.
The 2010 car show season is set to kick off in January at the 2010 North American International Auto Show, affectionately and more commonly known as the Detroit auto show. Toyota is going to be there and, being Toyota, you can bet its booth will be stuffed to the gill with hybrids. We've just received a pair of teaser images for an unnamed Toyota hybrid concept.
The ultra-swept headlamps and rounded nose point toward a concept that's like no current Toyota offering.
The concept should be a new model and not simply a hybrid version of a currently selling vehicle. There's not much that we can tell from the pictures beside that it's a green Toyota hybrid. I'm guessing based on the steep angle of the A-pillar that this is going to be a tiny car. Perhaps a new subcompact hybrid that slots in below the Prius.
We'll keep our eyes peeled for more information as it comes available. In the meantime, give us your best guess as to what Toyota's got up its sleeve in the comments.
The Sienna's Dual View display seems a bit wide for single source viewing, but dual source may be OK.
This week the 2011 Toyota Sienna debuted at the LA Auto Show and while the minivan's new Venza-esque aesthetic, 3.5- and 2.7-liter power trains, and available all-wheel drive are, well, kind of interesting, we're most intrigued by the new Dual View rear seat entertainment system.
Folding down from its hiding place in the Sienna's ceiling, the Dual View display appears to be a superwide 16.4-inch display. However, it is actually two smaller displays seamlessly butted against each other in one frame.
When watching a single source, the Dual View displays a single image. Choose two video sources (such as a DVD and the RCA inputs) and the two Dual View system switches to a split screen mode, displaying the two images side-by-side.
The rest of the Sienna's cabin tech package consists of the same DVD-based navigation system that Toyota's been using since forever, Bluetooth connectivity for calls and audio streaming, USB and iPod compatibility, and an 180-degree Panorama Camera rear monitor.
The Honda P-NUT was the strangest thing on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
In a time when most automakers limit their new production, Honda showed the most creative flair at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show with its Personal-Neo Urban Transport (P-NUT) concept. The P-NUT explores new ideas for small city cars, using a 1+2 layout, with rear seats that can fold up, turning the car into a delivery cart. Honda has some interesting ideas for how the driver would interact with the car, and specifies a head-up display for the broad windshield.
Don't expect the P-NUT to ever hit production; it is pure concept. Honda merely suggests some ideas that would work for its powerplant, from a traditional internal combustion engine to an electric drive unit.
Bentley S3-based concept it’s an amazing car that melds 1960’s styling from the original Bentley S3 with new millennium technology. That it is possible thanks to the Bentley Boys USA, and specifically Arturo Alonso who is an engineer and automotive visionary.and they will call it Bentley S3 E Design Concept. This splendid concept car will use the original body and chassis but some modern additions like 4-headlamp layout design, vertical grille, dual air conditioning system and a deluxe interior with leather and suede trim for maximized comfort. The car stands on 20 X 9.5 inch forged wheels wrapped with 275/40/20 Continental Sport tires.
Under the long hood will be a 4.4-litre V8 engine borrowed from German automaker BMW mated to a 5-speed ZF BMW automatic transmission producing close to 300 horse power. The S3 is fitted with customised exhaust system consist of stainless steel exhaust pipe, 2 rear muffler and double tips. Alonso and the guys from Bentley Boys USA decided to build only three of these special, extremely exclusive and unique vehicles and each vehicle it’s going to be built one at a time over a period of eight months. The Bentley S3 Concept will be priced at 150,000 american dollars. The producers will be targeting cashed-up buyers in the usual places, such as the Middle East, Russia the UK and North America.
Are you a fan of James Bond. Did you watch all his movies? Yes, James Bond movies are full of action with super weapons and super cars used. But, did you know that super car for now is not only in movie? Yes, you read it right. There is now a new released car in market, a bullet proof car.
This bullet proof Bentley is a rebel’s dream. For only $500,000 this dream car can be your on JamesList.
The bullet proof Bentley offers safety features such as ballistic steel in the doors, pillars, bulletproof glass, run flat tires, an explosion-proof gas tank, Kevlar flooring. Other security options include a self-contained oxygen supply system in case of a poison gas attack and exploding hinge bolts that blast open the doors should a speedy exit become necessary.
The new Saab 9-5 Sedan marks an all-new era for Saab. It is not onl;y the first model revealed after the Swedish brand is under Koenigsegg’s ownership, but it also comes with new design, inspired by both Aero X and Saab heritage. The all-new Saab 9-5 Sedan will make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show with sales to start later in model year 2010.
For the new 9-5 sedan the front is inspired by the Aero-X Concept: deep grille flanked with curving, ice-block headlamp units. The entire glasshouse is presented as a ‘wraparound’ mono graphic, the disguised windshield and side pillars giving the cabin Saab’s signature cockpit look. Squint slightly, and the proportions of the windshield and roof become reminiscent of the classic 900 model. The car comes with a variety of engine options with the base model having a 1.6-lite engine that can produce up to 180 hp. On the other end of the spectrum, is a 9-5 that comes with a 2.8-liter turbo V6 engine that puts out approximately 300 hp. While engines may differ depending on which version of the car you get, all 9-5 sedans do come with the same six-speed tranny in either stick-shift or semi-automatic.
India’s role as an important player in the future of Ford Motor Company’s international strategy was underscored today when the company’s President and CEO, Alan Mulally, unveiled an all-new car targeting the heart of the Indian car market – the new Ford Figo. The Ford Figo, a new nameplate and a fresh face on the Indian market, signals Ford’s intention to compete in India’s largest and most important small car...
At the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show Ford of Europe is revealing the next step in its acclaimed low CO2 Ford ECOnetic strategy, the super-efficient new 2010 Focus ECOnetic. Dedicated Ford ECOnetic Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo and Transit models have already established themselves as credible alternatives for customers prioritising low carbon motoring and high levels of fuel efficiency. The new model for 2010 takes this formula even further by combining new technology... An all-new, two-model Ford C-MAX range makes its global debut at this year’sFrankfurt Motor Show . The exciting new C-MAX family brings new levels of style and desirability to the compact multi-activity vehicle (MAV) market, with a bold and dynamic new look which extends Ford’s acclaimed ‘kinetic design’ language. For the first time, Ford’s MAV customers will have the choice of a 5-seat C-MAX or the new 7-seat Grand C-MAX.
While it’s true that every Ferrari is innovative by definition, it’s equally true that in the course of the Prancing Horse’s history, certain cars have marked a genuine departure from the current range. This is very much the case with the Ferrari 458 Italia, which is a massive leap forward from the company’s previous mid-rear engined sports cars. The new model is a synthesis of style, creative flair, passion and cutting-edge
Have been seeing ads about the new Vauxhall Insignia everywhere on the net. In continental Europe, it is sold as the Opel Insignia. It was unveiled at the British motor show in 2008.
Recently voted as Car of the Year 2009, it has also achieved a five-star adult occupant rating and four stars for child protection and two stars for pedestrian protection (the highest so far in it's category) from Euro NCAP.
The Insignia is available in Hatch and Saloon variants and come in a choice of 5 engines - Two 2 litre diesel engines and three petrol engines (1.8, 2.0 and 2.8 V6 engines).
Prices start from £15600.74 (OTR) for the base model - Insignia Exclusiv 1.8i 16v VVT (140PS) Manual.
Jaguar showed off their new generation XK and XF ranges at the North American International Autoshow, Detroit.0
The new Jaguar XK has new 3.0 Litre V6 Diesel engine, new exterior and a redesigned interior.
The range comprises three models: the XK, XK Portfolio and supercharged XKR, and each are available in Coupe or Convertible body style.
The new 510 PS 5.0 Litre AJ-V8 GEN III R supercharged engine is said to be Jaguar's most powerful and efficient ever.
The new XF range are available with the naturally aspirated version of the new 5.0-litre petrol V8 and the new 3.0-litre V6 diesel engines (in two versions -500 and 600Nm).
Extras include a 7-inch Touch-screen, Portable Audio Interface, Driver Information Centre and the industry-leading JaguarDrive Selector used to control the all-new ZF 6HP28 six speed automatic transmission.
According to their press release, the new XF Diesel S model has a powerful 275PS engine and goes from 0-60mph speed in just 5.9 seconds. Available as Premium Luxury and Portfolio models. It was interesting to note that the maximum speed is electronically limited to 155mph.
If you are worried about the green credential (if you really are, why don't you drive a Prius) the average fuel consumption in both models is 42.0mpg and has a CO2 emissions rating of only 179g/km.
The new XFR - XF's new sporting flagship model, has two new generation 5.0 litre V8 petrol engines that goes from 0-60mph in 4.7 seconds. The AJ-V6D Gen III engine - available in either 240PS/500Nm form or 275PS/600Nm 'S' features parallel sequential turbochargers to help deliver the high levels of power and torque. The engine is coupled with a six-speed ZF 6HP28 automatic transmission.
Of course you don't buy a Jaguar just to drive fast. There's the comfort and craftsmanship. The new Jaguar cars offer a wider choice of veneers and trim colours. For audiophiles, a Bowers and Wilkins 440W surround sound system with portable audio interface and DAB radio is also included.
The new XK and XF range will be on sale from March 2009.
The Lincoln MKZ began life as the Zephyr. It was bland-looking and far too underpowered to compete in the increasingly competitive entry-level luxury class. Ford updated the mid-size sedan back in 2007 with a more powerful engine, some cosmetic updates, and a new alphanumeric moniker. Despite the alterations, the least expensive Lincoln still didn't stack up with the competition in many areas, let alone in terms of image or "wow" factor.
Understandably, Lincoln is looking to reverse the fortunes of its MKZ for the 2010 model year, with a thorough makeover on the inside and some major cosmetic tweaks on the outside. Has Lincoln improved its volume sedan entry enough to make the MKZ a consideration for car shoppers? Hit the jump to find out how the 2010 Lincoln MKZ fared in our Autoblog review.
To understand exactly where the MKZ fits in the hierarchy of midsize entry-level luxury vehicles, we should first determine what the competition really is. Is it the Cadillac CTS? On price and size, the two vehicles are close, but the CTS is rear-wheel-drive, far sportier and has a much higher top-end price. While the Audi A4 is a front- or all-wheel drive proposition like the MKZ, it has a far greater price range and sportier demeanor. For our money, the MKZ's main competitors are the Lexus ES350 and the Acura TL. This group of vehicles has similar pricing and options, and all three are based off of non-luxury sedans sold under their parent company's less-exclusive nameplates. Admittedly, in this regard, the Lincoln is more of a gussied-up rebadge job of the capable Fusion/Mercury Milan and the Lex is a slicked-up Camry. By comparison, the TL would hardly recognize the Honda Accord as kin.
Our Tuxedo Black Clear Coat MKZ arrived equipped with the Technology Package and Sport Package options, and wore a MSRP of $37,255. The Technology Package includes adaptive HID headlamps, rain sensing windshield wipers and ambient lighting. With the Sport Package, you get an upgraded suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and tires, and high contrast stitching with eye-catching white piping. All-wheel drive can be checked off as an option, but our tester was motivated only by its front wheels.
While the 2010 is only a mid-cycle refresh of the 2007 model, there are enough changes inside and out to fool the untrained eye into thinking that this Lincoln is all-new. The front end gains the new corporate split grille that debuted with the Lincoln MKR concept in 2007 and was first brought to production on the 2009 Lincoln MKS.
The new Lincoln front end is more polarizing than the stylistically invisible grille of the Gen 1 MKZ, and that's a good thing. In our books, "Love it or hate it" beats "not even knowing it exists" design any day of the week. Some Autobloggers like the look of the MKZ up front, though others on the team have been far less complimentary in their assessment of the new look. Another surprise and delight comes at the expense of Lincoln's Tuxedo Black paint job. Little flecks of glass embedded in the paint look like stars in the galaxy when viewed in sunlight, just like former Ford design chief Peter Horbury told us it would.
On the inside, the MKZ has been stripped of its award-winning dash design that was arguably its biggest selling point before. In its place is a more modern interior with an MKS-like look. Our model was outfitted with the optional Sport Package, which added contrasting colored seats front and back. The white piping outlining the comfortable, well-bolstered Bridge of Weir leather seating was consistently a real attention grabber, and it really brightened up an otherwise dark cabin. Another favorite of ours was our tester's classy use of chrome shapes and materials on the door inlet, which usefully differentiated the MKZ's interior from that of the Milan and Fusion.
Interior materials were nice throughout, though we were a bit disappointed that the dash materials were the same kind that can be found in the Ford Fusion. The softer, more elegant stock of the costlier MKS would have been been preferred. We also didn't like the fact that the plain-Jane, hard plastic glove box didn't quite match the look of the surrounding materials.
For more than 10 years, Ford has had the same five button keypad to get owners into their cars without keys. After a decade, the look of the keys became less than modern, so Ford gave the fixture a thorough makeover for the 2009 MKS. Not so for the MKZ, though. It still has the same old buttons as a 1999 Taurus. The standard Ford-issue key fob doesn't lend much to the luxury experience, either. In our estimation, a valet shouldn't get the keys to your $37,000 Lincoln confused with the keys from the 2008 Focus next to it.
We were also a bit puzzled by the memory seats. Every time we started the car, the side mirrors adjusted themselves down towards the cement. So we set the mirrors and our seating position to our preference (or so we thought we did), and when we got back in the car the mirrors were down again. As it turns out, you need to have the car in Park to set save your settings. This would have been fine if the MKZ defaulted to the seat being all the way back for easy ingress/egress, but that wasn't the case. Why not just leave the seat in the last position? After all, how often does someone else drive your car?
One knock against the original Zephyr was that it was flat-out underpowered when compared to the competition. At the time, most run-of-the-mill midsize sedans got more juice from their V6 engines than did the Zephyr. The 2007 model MKZ, however, was upgraded with Ford's new-at-the-time 3.5-liter V6, which was rated at 263 horsepower. Ford has kept the same engine for 2010, though 263 hp is once again on the low end of the power spectrum. The Lexus ES350 and Acura TL both eek a bit more motivation out of their powertrains, though to its credit, the MKZ gets by without the need for premium fuel.
The tried-and-true 3.5-liter performs adequately in the MKZ, with enough punch for most drivers. When combined with its silky six-speed automatic transmission, the MKZ is a very smooth operator while cruising the boulevard. Gearing has been tweaked to improve off-the-line acceleration, and the new SelectShift manual shifting option is actually reasonably quick and almost fun to use. We were able to achieve around 23.5 mpg in mixed driving, which is about where you'd be with most V6-powered vehicles in the entry-level luxury segment.
Out on the road, the MKZ is neither as athletic as the Acura TL or as cushy the Lexus ES350. Lincoln engineers settled somewhere in the middle, with a tight chassis that soaks up road imperfections while providing enough athleticism to qualify as fun to drive. The MKZ doesn't feels as edgy as the Fusion Sport we tested earlier in the year, yet it does give you the ride and handling prowess to attack curves instead of easing into them. The suspension tuning may not have been track-ready, but that makes it a more comfortable cruiser out on the highway. Ford also took pains to keep the MKZ cabin luxury car quiet, and its efforts have paid off. We were able to hold conversations freely and easily, and we didn't have to raise our voices above 80 mph, either.
Push the little Lincoln around, though, and it's less than impressive. Its steering is a little over-boosted and feedback is minimal. The optional Sport Package on our tester did provide stiffer springs with larger sway bars for increased stability. It is far more competent in corners than Lincolns of yore, and a bit more spirited than the competition from Lexus, but it isn't as composed as the Acura (let alone anything coming out of Europe).
Lincoln has definitely freshened the look of the MKZ both inside and out, and it's a markedly more attractive package than the first generation model. We're not sure if Ford's luxury brand was aiming for the middle, but after a week with the freshly updated MKZ, that's exactly where it finds itself. In terms of styling and performance, the MKZ ends up being a nice alternative for those among us who want something more spirited than a Lexus ES350 and more subdued than a Acura TL. Whether those attributes will help Lincoln steal sales from the competition is another matter. With stellar reliability ratings, solid performance and the most standard features in its class, it should.
The new concept based on the 5 series has elements of a station wagon and hatchback
Attempting once again to invent a new automotive segment, as it did with the X6, BMW designs a new concept for the Geneva Motor Show it calls a Progressive Activity Sedan. This vehicle has four doors and an open cargo area, and only differs from a station wagon body style by the car's higher riding position and the fastback slope to the roofline. The car is officially called the Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, and BMW released photos and details today.
Following much acclaim for its sporty and aggressive styling at the Paris Motor Show last month, Renault has now confirmed UK pricing for its chic New Mégane Coupé range. Ordering opens early next month, with prices starting from £14,745, ready for the rakish three-door to go head-to-head with rivals such as the Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch and VW Scirocco.
At launch, three trim levels will be available: Expression, Dynamique and Privilège, priced £14,745 to £19,195. Continuing the impressive list of standard equipment on the five-door Hatch, the new Coupé has been designed to offer all of the comfort and practicality features to make everyday usage as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
In addition to the car’s five proper seats, sports chassis with firmer suspension and a 12mm lower ride height compared with the Hatch, the Coupé’s generous core features include air conditioning, six airbags, electric heated body coloured door mirrors, front electric windows and emergency spare wheel.
The entry-level Expression offers: 16” ‘Sport’ alloy wheels, 4x15W RDS radio CD, Brake Assist, front fog lights, height adjustable driver’s seat, height and reach adjustable steering wheel, Keyless car with Renault card and trip computer.
The mid-range Dynamique, which is also likely to account for the bulk of Coupé sales, benefits from: 17” alloy wheels (2.0 TCe 180 only), 4x15W RDS radio CD with Bluetooth and MP3 connection, automatic lights and wipers, cruise control, Hands free Renault card, height adjustable passenger seat, leather steering wheel, speed limiter and extra tinted rear side windows.
As the sportier model in the New Mégane range, the Coupé does without the 1.6 100 engine seen on the five-door, but gains Renault’s first CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) with the 2.0 140 petrol engine.
Proving that stylish and sport-oriented cars can still be respectful of the environment, all five diesel versions of the Coupé fulfil Renault’s eco² criteria. Six-speed manual gearboxes are standard across the range with the exception of the 1.5 dCi 86 which is five-speed, and naturally the CVT.
Rounding off the Coupé range is Privilège, offering: 16” ‘Spirale‘ alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, electrically operated folding door mirrors, electrochome rear view mirror, rear armrest with storage and rear parking sensors.
i MiEV (white) and the i MiEV SPORT AIR (blue) concepts
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation launched two concepts at the 79th Geneva International Motor Show at the Geneva Palexpo exhibition and conference complex on the 3rd of this month.
The two new cars are the i MiEV and the i MiEV SPORT AIR concept models. MiEV stands for Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle.
The i MiEV prototype is the precursor to a model that will be introduced to the European market in 2010.
The i MiEV SPORT AIR does bear a close resemblance to the VW Beetle.
Malaysian car maker, Proton has launched their MPV - the Exora. It is Malaysia’s first locally produced MPV.
It was launched on Wednesday by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
The 7-seater is powered by Proton's own 1.6 Campro CPS engine linked to a 4 speed automatic transmission.
The MPV has a top speed of 165 km/h (103 mph) and is available in six colours - pyrite brown, gaia blue, genetic silver, tranquillity black, blue haze and solid white.
Prices start at RM69998 going up to RM75998 for the higher end models. Proton had accepted bookings since Feb 21 and it was reported that more than 2500 orders have been received.
“Make mine a MINI Cooper S Cabrio in British Racing Green with a Hot Chocolate Soft top, Carbon Black Lounge Leather and brushed alloy interior highlights with Chilli to go”
Remember the original 1969 box office hit “The Italian Job” with British actor Michael Caine, who had to settle for a supporting role alongside a beautiful Lamborghini Miura, two Jaguar E Types and an Aston Martin DB4.
The real stars of the movie were three Mk1 Austin Mini Cooper S’s in red, white and blue, for England of course.
But truth be told, the Mini as it was known then, had already achieved global fame with owners such as, The Beatles (they each owned one), Clint Eastwood, Tom Hanks and even Enzo Ferrari, couldn’t resist the super cool image and go-kart like handling, which the Mini delivered in spades.
It was pretty much the same scenario with the 2003 remake of the film, when heavy hitting Hollywood stars, Mark Wahlbeg, Ed Norton and Charlize Theron, joined the set of the heist movie, only to be out gunned by wheelman, Jason Stratham and three seriously modified MINI Coopers, who drove away with the gold.
Its been far too long since I’ve been behind the wheel of a MINI Cooper S, that was back in 2005 when I was lucky enough to get a steer in a ‘one off’ John Cooper Works Chilli edition, loaded with every possible JCW performance option they could squeeze into the car. I didn’t think it was possible to have that much fun on four wheels, and I wasn’t the only one who thought so.
Former champion race driver Warwick Brown (he has a Formula One race to his credit) is not an easy guy to impress, but a quick spin in the passenger seat of this special MINI, and all he could say was “I want one now”.
But it’s not all about performance with this iconic brand; equally it’s about image and lifestyle, when we’re talking open-air motoring – by MINI.
BMW, the saviours and custodians of the MINI brand, has just introduced the Australian motoring press to the new MINI Cabrio in two flavours, the MINI Cooper Cabrio for $39,800 (RRP) and the ‘tuned’ MINI Cooper S Cabrio, at $48,000 (RRP).
While we didn’t get a steer in the stock MINI Cooper Cabrio, with its 88kW and 160Nm, no one complained, as we were greeted with a line up of MINI Cooper S Cabrio’s in a variety of colour-coded combinations.
We went for the Interchange Yellow with a Black Soft top and matching Interchange Yellow interior highlights. Our car also had the ‘must have’ bonnet stripes in black, which along with the bonnet-mounted intake; make this car a worry in anyone’s rear vision mirror.
MINI have gone for the classic soft top look, rather than the popular folding metal roof, which compliments the overall styling of the car, beautifully.
Not that its any less technical though, in fact, its quite a clever system, which takes all of fifteen seconds to open or close and can be done so while moving at up to 30km/h.
We put this feature to the test in rural Victoria yesterday, as we approached a rest stop, it started to rain quite heavily, so I hit the roof switch and we were under cover in no time at all.
With its integrated sliding action, the soft top also doubles as a sliding sunroof, but with little or no noise from the electro hydraulic components.
You can even option what MINI call an Always Open Timer (standard on Chilli models), which as the term suggests, times precisely how long you have the top down during each trip you make in the car.
Open-air motoring is about weathering the elements and enjoying that crisp cool air, so despite the lower than expected temperatures during the test drive, I strongly resisted the temptation to don my jacket, and with good reason.
Our MINI Cooper S Cabrio test car was fitted with the optional heated seats, which could have made a Siberian drive in the dead of winter with the roof down a joy; such was effectiveness of this bottom warming luxury.
And for your hands and torso, this is one of the best HVAC units I have experienced in any car, which made the 250-kilometre trip in short sleeves, entirely comfortable.
The sports seats with the optional Lounge leather in Hot Chocolate are a treat, hugely supportive and anatomically comfortable, even after hours behind the wheel.
You never feel cramped in the MINI Cooper Cabrio either, put that down to the relatively gentle rake of the windscreen, and the fact that is rises high above your hairline and far enough forward, so as never to intrude.
The instrumentation is a modern interpretation of the original Mk1 Mini Cooper, with the oversized centre mounted speedometer, which I found difficult to read at a glance, due to its lack of angle towards the driver, and relied more on the small digital speed read out within the RPM dial, in front of the steering wheel.
The driving position across the MINI line up is brilliant, you sit deep in the car and low to the ground, so its not hard to understand how this car gets its go-kart like handling tag, but frankly, there’s a lot more to it than simply the ergonomics.
The steering for example, is deadly accurate and very quick to respond to the slightest input, making it an enthusiast’s dream on the twisty bits.
The brakes too, offer brilliant stopping power without being overly sensitive to pedal pressure, a common complaint across several different prestige brands these days.
It doesn’t matter how quick you turn into a corner there is no sign of body roll, not even a hint – this car is lean free, and that’s with the roof down!
Couple that, with what I am prepared to say, is the best performing 1.6 litre powertrain in use today and you have a car, which would put a smile on the face of an accountant from a shoe lace factory.
It doesn’t seem to matter what gear ratio you are in, punch the throttle and the MINI Cooper S Cabrio embarks on a high speed mission, utterly devoid of any turbo lag.
We can thank BMW know how for this silk smooth 1,598 cc all alloy power unit, boosted by a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection delivering 128kW at 5,500 and up to 260 Newton-metres between an incredible 1,600 and 5,000 rpm.
Even traveling across some winding and hilly countryside, you can sit back in fifth or sixth gear without the need to ever shift down, due in most part, to the MINI’s unusually wide torque curve.
The MINI Cooper S Cabrio will top out at 222km/h and accelerate from 0-100km/h in a reasonably rapid 7.4 seconds, although it felt quicker than that from behind the wheel.
There’s a relatively modest dose of torque steer when you jump on the right pedal in first gear, but its no cause for alarm and entirely normal behaviour from a front wheel drive car, with this kind of performance.
While the Six Speed manual gearbox and the beautifully tactile shifter is another highlight of the MINI, you can choose the six-speed automatic with Steptronic and steering wheel paddles, but that will cost you a $2,350 premium over the manual box.
It might have go-kart like handling, but the ride quality on board the MINI Cooper S Cabrio has been perfectly calibrated to take full advantage of the brilliant chassis and offers a firm, but never harsh ride.
As small as the MINI might look, there is enough room in the boot with the rear seats in place for a couple of medium size soft bags. But fold the rear seats down and close the roof, and luggage space is optimised to a considerable 660 litres.
Safety for those on board the MINI Cooper Cabrio range is clearly a priority. There’s a single piece rollbar, which extends the width of the car behind the rear seats, but does not impede the driver’s rear view. There’s also a sophisticated rollover sensor, which will activate a host of safety features including frontal and side head/thorax airbags together with the rollbar, which can deploy in 150 milliseconds, when fired.
The new MINI Cabrio also comes loaded with a full suite of active safety systems which include; ABS, EBD, CBC Cornering Brake Control, in addition to DSC Dynamic Stability Control and a great feature called Hill Start Assist, which prevents the car from rolling back when starting off in first gear, on an incline.
Weighing in at just 1230kg, I’m reasonably confident you can expect this high performance MINI Cabrio to achieve the published fuel consumption figure of 7.2l/100km (combined). After 250 kilometres of reasonably serious driving, we had used just one bar out of ten, on the fuel indicator.
Even better, if you choose the normally aspirated MINI Cabrio, using variable valve management based on BMW’s “Valvetronic” technology, which is said to use as little as .1litres/100km.
But if the above fuel consumption numbers don’t measure up to your environmental standards, and you’re more leaf green than British Racing Green, then you might want to hold off for the new MINI Cooper D, which means you will be able to have the best of both worlds.
On sale in Australia in May this year, the “D” will provide buyers with a capability to travel up to 1,025km from a single tank of diesel (40 litres).
Moreover, CO2 emissions will fall to just 104 g/km, while the 1.6-litre turbo diesel powerplant produces a staggering 260Nm during “Overboost”, and will be the fastest accelerating diesel in its capacity class in the country.
“I seriously doubt whether there is any other car on the market priced below fifty thousand dollars, which offers more “cool” and “go” than the new MINI Cooper S Cabrio”.
