Motorward

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• Renault Kangoo Maxi Z.E
• Fiat 500 by Gucci
• Wald Maserati Quattroporte Black Bison
• Brabus 2011 Mercedes CLS Revealed
• Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package In Geneva
• Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition
• Video: Mark Webber’s Porsche 911 GT2 RS
• MINI Rocketman Video
• Mazda MX-5 Kendo Special Edition
• VW Golf Cabrio Revealed
• 2011 Ford Fiesta S1600
• MINI Rocketman Concept
• Jaguar XKR-S
• 2011 Aston Martin Virage

Renault Kangoo Maxi Z.E Posted: 23 Feb 2011 08:31 AM PST The latest addition to Renault’s family of electric cars is the Kangoo Maxi Z.E. It is the long wheelbase version of the Kangoo van powered by a 44kW motor (equivalent to 60hp) which is powered by a 22kWh lithium-ion battery. Those batteries are located beneath the floor so they don’t take up any spcae inside the can. It is just as practical as normal Maxi models with a maximum load capacity of 4.63 m3 for the 2-seat or 3.4m3 for the 5-seater people carrier. The vehicle’s combined-cycle range of 105 miles can vary one way or the other depending on factors such as type of road, temperature, terrain or driving style. Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. will go on sale at the end of 2011 in Europe at a price of £17,990 (excluding VAT) for the two-seat version, or £18,690 for the five-seat crew van version. At the time of going to press, light commercial vehicles are not eligible for the UK's Plug-In Car Grant. Since we don’t know much about vans, please check out the press release below if you need more info! Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. is an extended version of Kangoo Van Z.E. which was unveiled at last year’s Hannover Motor Show. The wheelbase has been lengthened by 40cm to obtain an overall length of 4.60 metres, and this modular, versatile van will be available in two- and five-seat form.The first of these two versions essentially targets transport use. Its two front seats are separated from the cargo carrying area by an optional bulkhead. This configuration optimises Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E.’s carrying capacity and is unprecedented in the small electric van segment: A carrying capacity of up to 4.6m3 (which is 1.1m3 more than Kangoo Van Z.E.). Maximum load length of up to 2.90 metres. Its height of just 1.82 metres permits access to underground car parks. The equipment and options that can be ordered for the internal combustion-engined version of Kangoo Van Maxi will also be available for Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. The crew van version of Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. comes with a 60/40-split folding rear benchseat and seats up to five occupants. This modular van can be put into one of four different interior layouts depending on the number of passengers. The rear benchseat folds away into the floor to produce a completely flat deck and free up almost 3.4m3 of carrying space. Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. will appeal to business customers (fleet owners, trades people, public authorities, etc.) who are looking for maximum carrying capacity, and in the case of the crew van version, additionally a people carrier and who wish to lower their fleet CO2 emissions. Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. carries over the same overall interior and exterior styling as the internal combustion-engined version. A choice of nine standard body colours will be available, while customers will also be able to specify the livery of their own company. The model will be built at Renault’s MCA plant (Maubeuge Carrosserie Automobile) in France, on the same production lines as those which manufacture the rest of the Kangoo Van range, a pledge of high quality and quick start-up. An all-electric vehicle for 'Z.E.N.' motoring The electrically-powered Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. is recognisable at first glance thanks to the chrome Z.E. badging at the rear and on the body sides, as well as the absence of an exhaust2 and the inclusion of a flap at the front which will enable the battery to be charged in between six and eight hours. The bonnet conceals a 44kW motor (equivalent to 60hp) which is powered by a 22kWh lithium-ion battery located beneath the floor. The vehicle’s combined-cycle range of 105 miles can vary one way or the other depending on factors such as type of road, temperature, terrain or driving style. To optimise range management, the dashboard has been revised to incorporate a new MMI (Man Machine Interface) which displays the battery’s level of charge and the vehicle’s remaining range (in miles). The Eco-driving mode and the ability to pre-heat the vehicle while the battery is being charged have also been developed to maximise the range. Last but not least, to further optimise range and reassure customers, Renault will market a number of connected services, tailored to meet the needs of individual motorists (Connected Pack) or fleet managers (Fleet Asset Management). In addition to the satisfaction of contributing to the zero-emission mobility drive3 (zero CO2 and particulate emissions), driving Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. delivers a whole new type of motoring pleasure. Thanks to the availability of peak torque (226Nm) the moment the driver pulls away, plus responsive acceleration at low speeds, a silent ride and the absence of gearshifts, Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. combines unprecedented performance and comfort. Maxi carrying ability – mini prices Renault has always said that the success of electric vehicles will depend on the availability of truly affordable vehicles. To attract customers, ecology and real economies must go hand in hand. With Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E., Renault has succeeded in combining maximum carrying capacity with zero emissions4 at an affordable price. Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. will go on sale at the end of 2011 in Europe at a price of £17,990 (excluding VAT) for the two-seat version, or £18,690 for the five-seat crew van version. At the time of going to press, light commercial vehicles are not eligible for the UK's Plug-In Car Grant. As is the case for the rest of its electric vehicle range, Renault separates ownership of the vehicle and battery to ensure optimal capacity of the latter throughout the vehicle’s working life. Customers will either buy or lease their vans and take out a monthly subscription for the battery, with UK pricing starting from £59 month excluding VAT, based on 9,000 miles and 48 month commitment. Meanwhile, running costs – including battery lease, the electricity required for battery charging (£2.50 average for a full charge) and maintenance – will be similar to those of an equivalent internal combustion-engined vehicle when the annual distance travelled is less than 9,375 miles. They will be competitive when the annual distance travelled exceeds this figure. By the end of 2011, the Kangoo Van line-up will offer business customers a unique range, enabling them to choose the solution that matches their needs the closest. The market’s most comprehensive and diversified compact van range features seven models, a choice of three lengths and three energy types (petrol, diesel or electric) to ensure that Kangoo Van remains a step ahead of its rivals.

Fiat 500 by Gucci Posted: 23 Feb 2011 08:16 AM PST The little Fiat 500 has turned into the symbol of Italy these days!  This is the latest special edition of the car designed by Gucci, celebrating the 90th anniversary of the fashion brand. The car is customized by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini in partnership with Fiat’s Centro Stile and is available in just black or white. Both cars are garnished with Gucci's signature green-red-green stripe, which runs along the entire perimeter and links the exterior to the interior. These stripes also appear inside on the seats, on the gear shift, the key-cover, the carpets, and in an innovative finish on the seatbelts. The Black one gets detailing in shiny chrome paired with interiors that contrast sharp black and white, for a contemporary and racy attitude. White, with satin chrome detailing and ivory and black interiors for a softer, sophisticated look. Fiat 500 by Gucci also features 195/45 R16 wheels. But even those rims have their own styling details. The hubcaps feature the interlocking GG in the same color of the body of the car. The  cursive Gucci signature appears on the hatchback as well on the doorpost. You also get rear break callipers in Gucci green. Completing the customization is the exclusive 500 by Gucci collection, including travel accessories, small leather goods, drivers, tracksuits, bombers, driver gloves, sunglasses and a watch, which will be available in select Gucci stores and online at www.gucci.com from April 2011. Commenting on the collaboration, Lapo Elkann said: «I am honored that I was able to connect Fiat and Gucci, especially in such an important anniversary year for Italy. Being Italian, it makes me proud to have contributed to this  500 by Gucci, which  brings together the spirit of two brands that so perfectly symbolize our country’s savoir faire in the world. It has indeed been very gratifying to work again on the car I love most with Fiat’s Centro Stile and with Frida Giannini».

Wald Maserati Quattroporte Black Bison Posted: 23 Feb 2011 07:00 AM PST The Maserati Quattroporte finally makes its way to the Wald International’s operation room and gets a Black Bison kit. It would look a helluva lot cooler in black, but then you wouldn’t be able to notice the details! Maser QPorte gets a revised front bumper from the Japanese tuner which has an spoiler lip on it. It also gets some black eyes, new side skirts, a rear diffuser, wings on the roof and the trunk lid, and a pair of twin exhaust pipes designed in an exquisite way. We should also mention the LED lights at front and some stupidly big wheels! That’s the thing about Wald’s Black Bison kits, they follow a simple and straight forward recipe. Most of the time they work and make the car better, but we’re afraid this time they didn’t pull it off properly. The Quattroporte is too handsome for such a treatment. Nice try though.

Brabus 2011 Mercedes CLS Revealed Posted: 23 Feb 2011 06:42 AM PST A couple of teaser images had surfaced for the Brabus 2011 Mercedes CLS and everybody suggested this is the new Rocket. Well, it is not! Turns out they’ve only tweaked the diesel engines so far. But it’s just the beginning, maybe later in the year we also get a new CLS Rocket. As for this package, it includes a nice and classy body kit and performance upgrades for the CLS 250 CDI and CLS 350 CDI diesel models. Brabus has prepd a discrete aero kit for the new CLS and yet managed to add its own signature in a way that is quite noticeable. You look at the new front spoiler, LED daytime running lights, those magnificent side vents, new side skirts that have logos on them, and a boot lid wing, and you immediately recognize the car as a Brabus. That’s even before you get to the BRABUS Monoblock wheels in sizes ranging from 8.5Jx17 to 10.5Jx20 and six different designs. Brabus has also developed new suspension system for this car in cooperation with Bilstein. It drops the car by 30mm, but you can also go for the AIRMATIC air suspension system. They’ve tinkered with that too and lowered it by 35mm. As for the engines, the CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model equipped with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D4 performance kit delivers an additional 31 hp (31 bhp) / 22.8 kW and produces a peak torque of 560 Nm (413 lb-ft). Then there’s the CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY which in 'Eco' mode only peak torque is increased from 620 Nm to 690 Nm. Same engine in the Sport mode will delivers 313 hp (309 bhp) / 230 kW at a low 3,600 rpm. That means it can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. Fully stainless-steel BRABUS quad sport exhaust systems are available for all CLS engine variants. The precision-calibrated exhaust systems optimize power yield and produce a throaty exhaust note. Inside the cabin you get ergonomically shaped BRABUS sport steering wheel, BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara, scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo or the speedometer with 340-km/h dial (213 mph), plus aluminum components such as pedal pads, door-lock pins and shifter, and high-quality clear-coated carbon-fiber inlays for dashboard and center console. If you are old school you can go for wood trims. A Brabus multimedia package finishes off the tuning program. You can see the car in person at the Geneva Motor Show.

Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package In Geneva Posted: 23 Feb 2011 06:18 AM PST The first full public outing of the Lexus LFA equipped with Nurburgring Package will take place at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. Lexus just released a bunch of new photos and details of this special edition. As if the standard Lexus LFA is weak or doft, the Nurburgring Pack will make it harder and more track-focused. It features additional aerodynamic elements, lowered suspension and engine revisions. Mind you, that engine revision is not very deep and results in just a mere 10 bhp increase in power from V10 engine to 562bhp, thus enabling the car for a 0 to 62 mph sprint of 3.7 seconds. In terms of handling modifications, the package features suspension tuning and a 10mm reduction in the ride height. Exclusive mesh-type wheels are introduced, fitted with dedicated high-grip tyres. The reason they call it the Nurburgring pack is because of the car’s commitment to the Nürburgring 24 Hours race. The LFA has been basically developed in that race track and spent years and years in there either testing or racing. The performance option is available on just 50 of the 500 cars that will be built. These versions will be crafted during 2012, the second full year of LFA production. You can have the Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package in matte black, black, white or orange, with interiors finished in black and red, black and purple and all-black. Cars delivered in Europe will feature a carbon fibre centre console and door trims, with carbon fibre sports seats finished in Alcantara. The car featured in the press images you see here is the orange which might not look very classy in the pictures, but it’s actually quite cool in the real world! Lexus is also offering one-to-one driving tuition from a Nürburgring chief instructor and a year's pass to enjoy their car on the famous Nordschleife circuit for customers who specify the package. That sounds like a generous offer, but you have take into account that the basic LFA is bloody expensive, and so is the Nurburgring package! So you can actually expect way more than that. Check out the rand-new pictures of the car here:

Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition Posted: 23 Feb 2011 05:22 AM PST A few days after some info about the new limited edition Saab 9-3 leaked out, the Swedish car maker released further details and images of the car which is called the Independence Edition, celebrating Saab’s first anniversary of its independence. They say independence, but as far as we know they are now owned by the Dutch company Spyker! Anyhow, this numbered limited edition 9-3 Convertible is base don the Aero specification. They will only make 366 units of it one for each day during the first year and one extra for the start of a second year! 80 units of them are destined for the UK market. The highlights of the 2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition include a unique Amber Orange metallic paint finish, limited edition serial number etched into the rear side windows, Five spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels with a satin chrome/black finish, Parchment sport leather seats and glovebox with amber orange highlights, Carbon-fibre look leather finish for the  instrument panel, handbrake, gearshift moulding and door handles, Driver 'welcome' message in instrument display, unique turbo boost gauge, Orange stitched sport leather steering wheel and carpet mats with grey piping. All of the 366 Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition models are powered by a 1.9-litre twin turbo diesel engine with 180 hp, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. There’s no word on the car’s pricing yet.

Video: Mark Webber’s Porsche 911 GT2 RS Posted: 23 Feb 2011 05:01 AM PST As you may know Australian Formula 1 star Mark Webber has bought himself a Porsche 911 GT2 RS as his daily driver. Porsche takes that as an opportunity to use the racing driver’s social image to promote the car. They took Mark and his car to the Silverstone track where he takes some lucky passengers out for a lap of the track, scaring the living daylights out of some! If you now fancy yourself some GT2 RS, please be advised that you need Webber kind of car control capabilities to enjoy it. Otherwise you might end up in a tree!

MINI Rocketman Video Posted: 23 Feb 2011 04:53 AM PST Following the initial pictures and details, Mini has released the first official videos of the Rocketman concept. This car is already one of the most interesting concept cars of the 2011 Geneva Motor Show because of its stunning aesthetics. It has the same sort of size as the original Mini but has a three-seat layout inside and a powertrain that manages 3.0 l/100 km. Apart fro the fancy doors and some small details, the Rocketman is not that outlandish and they could actually make it.

Mazda MX-5 Kendo Special Edition Posted: 23 Feb 2011 04:30 AM PST Celebrating the production of the 900,000th Mazda MX-5, which is a world record, they have introduced a new special edition of the roadster in UK called Kendo, named after a modern Japanese martial art. It means "The way of the Sword". Mazda MX-5 Kendo is available as both soft-top and coup versions. They will go on sale form March 1 nationwide, with prices starting from £19,255 for the Mazda MX-5 1.8i Kendo soft-top, and £22,320 for the more powerful Mazda MX-5 2.0i Kendo roadster coupe. Both models are based on the SE trim level and feature a unique Stone Leather interior (with Stone coloured stitching on the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake), unique 17-inch alloy wheels, exterior badging and floor mats, plus front fog lamps, heated seats, brushed aluminium style-bar trim and aluminium pedals. The more expensive coupe also gets a premium BOSE audio system,  Bluetooth hands-free and cruise control.  Both versions offer a choice of Sparkling Black or Dolphin Grey mica paint finish. As for the power, the 1.8-litre in the soft-top delivers 126 PS, while the 2.0 liter unit in the roadster coupe makes 160 PS.

VW Golf Cabrio Revealed Posted: 23 Feb 2011 04:17 AM PST Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is officially back! The soft-top funster will first stop at Geneva to make its debut and then goes on sale just in time for Summer. As mentioned the new Golf 6 Cabrio features a fabric top that goes up and down using electricity in 9.5 seconds. Adding a folding metal roof would have been cooler, but it also adds a fair bit of weight, so the soft-top is the better option specially as you can operate it while on the move up to 18 mph. Despite being a four-seater, the Golf Cabrio maintains its compact size at 4,215 mm in length, 1,424 mm in height and 1,779 mm in width. VW has also managed to turn the Golf into a open-top car without tuning its design. It looks just as good as a normal Golf. At least when the roof is down! Inside the Golf Cabriolet's appearance matches very closely that of the hatchback, adopting the same high-quality materials and design. It offers 250 liters of boot space with the roof down. The car is offered with six turbocharged direct-injection engines whose power outputs range from 77 kW / 105 PS to 155 kW / 210 PS – three from launch (a 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS, 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS and a 1.6-litre 105 PS TDI) and a further three later in the year (a 1.4-litre TSI 122 PS, 2.0-litre TSI 210 PS and a 2.0-litre TDI with 140 PS). Four of the petrol engines (TSI) and one diesel (TDI) are available with the DSG dual-clutch gearbox; while three of the engines are available with energy-saving BlueMotion Technology. The BM 1.6 TDI averages 4.4 liter per 100 km. 2011 Golf Cabrio is also generously equipped with standard safety features such as automatically deploying roll-over bar, front airbags, side head/thorax airbags, knee airbag for the driver and ESP, as well as reinforced window frame and structural modifications to the underbody, side panels, cross-members and doors. You may know pre-order the car in Germany for 23.625 Euro.

2011 Ford Fiesta S1600 Posted: 22 Feb 2011 11:28 PM PST The hotted-up limited edition Ford Fiesta that is known as the Sport+ in Europe, goes on sale in UK as the S1600. It is limited to 500 units for the entire country, priced from £15,895. Ford Fiesta S1600 is based on the popular three-door 120PS Ford Fiesta Zetec-S, but that 1.6-litre, Duratec Ti-VCT petrol engine is tweaked to deliver 134PS at 6,700rpm and 160Nm of torque at 4,250rpm. That means it can now reach 60mph in just 8.2sec. Fiesta S1600 also features a body kit that sets it apart from the rest of the range with a unique front bumper with flared lower valence panel, extended side skirts, large rear spoiler and rear diffuser, and with 17in white alloy wheels.  Frozen White or Performance Blue liveries are available, with contrasting motorsport stripes. The sporty interior of the car offers features like heated, stitched leather sports seats with standard side-airbags, leather steering wheel, handbrake cover and gear-knob, plus motorsport-branded floor mats and scuff plates. Andrew Paton, Ford of Britain’s Fiesta product manager, said:  “The sportier character of these limited-edition Fiesta S1600 models will appeal to all driving enthusiasts. The previous S1600 was rapidly sold out which shows how much fun these affordable new Fiesta models are – and now with more power and performance these latest versions are set to be an even greater hit.”

MINI Rocketman Concept Posted: 22 Feb 2011 11:21 PM PST This is Mini’s new latest concept car to keep the visitors amused at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show! The Rocketman Concept is closer to the dimensions of the original Mini than any other car they’ve made so far. Apart from the size though, it is an incredibly futuristic car. With a length of length of just over 3 metre and 3+1-seater with 3 doors format the Rocketman is a new and fun solution for urban transportation problems. Mini explains teh car using terms like Ingenious functionality, smile-inducing agility, exceptional efficiency and irresistible design! One of the coolest features of the car is the way its doors open. These double-hinged doors slide towards you electronically. Not the most convenient way, but definitely fun! The car welcomes you with a modern interior the features lightweight seats for three and s surprising amount of space. MINI Rocketman is also very advanced in terms of design and materials. A carbon spaceframe construction, whose striking surface structure is visible at the front end of the car, around its doors and in the interior, forms the basis for a weight-minimising construction. This being a concept for the second decade of the 21st century, it features a super efficient powertrain that averages just three litres per 100 kilometres (94 mpg imp). Read more about the Mini Rocketman Concept in the press release below: Body design: hallmark MINI design language in particularly concentrated form. The MINI Rocketman Concept body is shaped by an avant-garde interpretation of time-honoured brand features. Innovative construction techniques allow the principle used in the classic Mini – of providing the maximum amount of room on the smallest possible footprint – to be carried over to the mobility challenges of urban areas in the 21st century. The MINI Rocketman Concept measures 3.419 metres (approx. 11 ft. 3 in.) in length, adding just a few extra centimetres to the front and rear of the brand's founding father born in 1959. The new study is 1.907 metres (approx. 6 ft. 3 in.) wide, including the exterior mirrors, and stands 1.398 metres (approx. 4 ft. 7 in) tall. Its proportions also display clear symmetries with both the classic Mini and the brand's present-day line-up. The brand's familiar appearance is therefore concentrated into a new set of dimensions, with the concept for a new vehicle segment remaining unmistakably recognisable as a MINI. The interpretation of the characteristic MINI design language chosen for the study car also exudes a powerful and dynamic allure. Tightly contoured surfaces, large wheels and a basic form dictated by straight lines help give the MINI Rocketman Concept a resoundingly solid structure. In addition to its tell-tale proportions, a sprinkling of distinctive design features ensure that its brand affiliation is immediately clear. Large, circular headlights and a radiator grille with chrome surround dominate the front end. While the exterior contours of the headlights fit the familiar visual template, their inner structure has been further developed for the new study. The centrally positioned LED units generating full beam are bordered by an eye-catching light ring for dipped-beam mode. Direction indicators integrated into the headlight units are a feature shared with the current range of series-produced MINI models. The dimensions of the headlights reflect those of the current MINI, which means they come across as particularly large when set against the smaller face of the study car. As stand-out features of MINI design they symbolise the core values of the brand, which remain reassuringly intact in the new vehicle concept represented by the study. In the area surrounding the headlights and around the front apron and radiator grille, sections of the carbon spaceframe are visible alongside the painted and chromed surfaces. Its striking surface structure serves as a reminder of the study's innovative construction blueprint. Powerful silhouette, innovative door concept. Large wheels and the three-level structural split of body, "wraparound" green-house and roof resting on top give the flanks the same appearance as the MINI models already in series production. The windows taper as they extend back towards the rear, emphasising the body's dynamic wedge shape and offering an immediate hint of the vehicle's sporty and agile character. The high waist-line, accentuated on the MINI by a chrome frame ringing the vehicle, takes the form of a light strip on the MINI Rocketman Concept and throws the study's powerful silhouette into even sharper focus. The study's 18-inch wheels likewise leave no doubt that the sure-footed road-holding and sporty handling properties of a MINI can also play a key role in a car with smaller dimensions. The weight-saving wheels specially developed for the MINI Rocketman Concept have an aerodynamically highly effective, en-closed surface structure. And the carbon wing contour of the directional wheels also helps to reduce drag. An aluminium trim strip on the wheel rim adds an attractive stylistic touch. Among the car's key design and functionality-related innovations are the two side doors. Their length and the specially designed arrangement of the door sills allow extremely comfortable access to all the seats in the MINI Rocketman Concept. When opened, the doors pivot outwards complete with their sills, enabling the driver and front passenger to climb in right next to their seats and get settled in comfort. Entry to the rear seats is also made much easier by the car's unusual door concept. The carbon spaceframe construction, together with the impressively high torsional stiffness of the under-body structure, allows the arrangement of the side sills to be combined with extremely high body rigidity. In addition, an extremely sophisticated opening mechanism ensures easy ac-cess into the car, even in tight parking spaces. The front-hinged doors have a double-hinge joint, which also allows a large opening angle when space is restricted. The innovative character of this construction element is also evident when the doors are closed; the carbon hinges standing out visibly in form and colour from the rest of the body. The MINI Rocketman Concept thus takes a stylistic cue from the classic Mini, whose exterior-mounted door hinges also went on to become an identifying characteristic. Projector-style rear lights, transparent and illuminated glass for the roof. The rear lights of the MINI Rocketman Concept have a trapezoidal stirrup de-sign – into which all the light functions are integrated – and work using projector technology. The lamp assembly projects the rear and braking light and the light for the direction indicators onto the car body. The high-output LED units used for the lights ensure that even this indirect illumination concept produces the accustomed intensity of light that is necessary for safety. The roof of the MINI Rocketman Concept also puts on an extraordinary light show. The full-surface glass roof is segmented by illuminated braces to recreate the look of Britain's Union Jack flag. When not illuminated, the longitudinal, horizontal and diagonal braces glow a bright Porcelain White. In darkness the integrated optical fibres give the interior of the MINI Rocketman Concept a pleasantly indirect illumination and, as a result, a more effective nocturnal appearance. The bright colour of the roof and mirror caps – likewise painted Porcelain White – create an attractive contrast to the Bermuda (a warm shade of grey) of the body. The areas of carbon visible at the front end and around the doors add further striking touches. Split tailgate with drawer and integrated rear cargo carrier. The MINI Rocketman Concept also uses creative design and innovative technical solutions to open up new layout options for the luggage area. This enhances the versatility of the existing space and means it can be used more efficiently. The split two-part tailgate consists of one section which is attached to the roof and opens extremely high and a lower section which extends out 350 millimetres from the body in the form of a drawer unit. The drawer represents the further development of the downward-opening tailgate seen on the classic Mini. This construction principle allows room to be made for pieces of luggage and travel items even when the car is carrying four occupants. The MINI Rocketman Concept literally grows as a vehicle when it's time to start loading up the gear. An intelligent folding mechanism makes it possible to lock the cargo drawer of the MINI Rocketman Concept either higher up or further in towards the passenger compartment, as the loading scenario demands. This allows loads to be transported out of sight and protected from the weather. If required, items can also be loaded through into the passenger compartment. In addition, the open-top cargo drawer can also serve as a rear luggage carrier. Here, purpose-built inserts make it easier to transport snowboards and other bulky items of sports equipment. Added to which, the glass tailgate, which extends well into the roof, helps to enhance loading flexibility. It is connected with the body via a centrally positioned hinge with integrated gas strut system, which also allows it to be opened when the rear carrier is loaded with gear. Seat concept: the ideal position for every mobility requirement. The arrangement of the seats and control elements in the passenger compartment of the MINI Rocketman Concept ensures maximum versatility for the widest possible range of mobility needs. The low-weight seats, which are traditional MINI in form, offer a high level of comfort and optimum lateral support even for sporty drivers. The amount of space for the driver and passengers can be varied as required. Three individual seats slide fore and aft, allowing a high level of comfort with generous head, leg and shoulder room. There is also an additional seat in the rear, whose backrest can be folded down fully to serve as a stowage surface. Three mobility scenarios have been developed to define the real-life usage possibilities offered by the interior of the study. In a layout designed specially to enhance a sporting driving experience, the MINI Rocketman Concept offers just the right amount of space for the driver and front passenger. The front seats are pushed back as far as possible and the instrument cluster also slides fore and aft to provide the ideal position for a full-blooded driving experience. If an additional passenger joins the two already on board, the front passenger can move his seat forward again to take a position slightly further forward than the driver. In this configuration, the front passenger's legroom is reduced to standard MINI levels to accommodate an equally generously sized rear seat behind him. The MINI Rocketman Concept also offers a practical solution for travelling with four people. Once the driver has returned both his seat and the instrument cluster to the standard position, a second rear seat allows a fourth person to climb aboard for shorter journeys, at least. Innovative mix of materials, hallmark MINI design. The impressive variability of the interior is complemented by a pure-bred de-sign which spotlights both the unmistakable style of the brand and the study car's pioneering technology. The intention behind the selection of materials and interior trim structure was to create a feeling of contemporary functionality and lightness. To this end, the carbon structure of the body frame has been left exposed in the footwells and around the centre console. A fresh interpretation of customary MINI design features emphasises the further development of the brand's characteristic design language inside the study car as well. The door panels house the door pulls and the stowage compartments, which feature trim elements whose elliptical form reaches past the B-pillar into the rear compartment. The surface design therefore offers a stylistic nod to the variable division of space and shared driving experience provided by the MINI Rocketman Concept interior. Inside the car, leather covers and high-gloss painted surfaces combine with armrests and trim strips made from a special paper that has been pressed and folded into the desired structure. The trim strips are backlit by LED-powered fibre optics. Plus, a light strip that wraps around the interior at waistline height generates a particularly harmonious ambience. Innovative operating concept: trackball on the steering wheel, 3D-effect graphics in the Centre Speedo. An operating concept developed for the MINI Rocketman Concept brings together principles from the MINI design handbook, innovative new functions and a pioneering operating system to serve up even greater driving fun over both short and long journeys. A cockpit instrument, positioned above the steering wheel and therefore directly in the driver's field of view, houses the rev counter and on-board computer display. The large-format Centre Speedo with peripheral speedometer and multifunctional colour display also adheres to the system logic familiar from the current range of series-produced MINI cars as far as display arrangement is concerned. The development of the rigorously applied display/control element separation principle, meanwhile, has been taken to the next level. In addition to multifunction buttons on the steering wheel, the current MINI also has a joystick on the centre console for operating vehicle-related, navigation, entertainment and communications functions. By contrast, the MINI Rocketman Concept concentrates all the control elements on the steering wheel. This reflects an ongoing commitment to the concept of simple and intuitive operation, and means that the driver can operate more functions than ever while keeping both hands on the steering wheel at all times. A press of the thumb on the relevant multifunction buttons on the left-hand steering wheel spoke is all that is required to use front-line controls such as the volume for the audio system and the call pick-up function for incoming telephone calls. In addition, a trackball is integrated into the right-hand steering wheel spoke. Inspired by computer operating, this element allows the driver to control an impressively wide range of processes. For example, to navigate through the menu levels the driver turns the trackball horizontally, while vertical movements allow him to scroll up and down lists. The driver then selects the desired function with a press of the trackball. With selected functions such as in-car internet, the driver uses his thumb to move the cursor around the display in any direction. The graphics in the colour display of the Centre Speedo are more diverse, higher quality and sharper than ever. High-resolution 3-D graphics open up new possibilities in the need-based selection of functions using the trackball and display. According on the driver's preference and the driving situation, particularly relevant displays and alerts are moved into the foreground, while the remaining status displays remain visible on a display level further back. This makes it significantly easier to move quickly and intuitively between the navigation map display, music programme selection and telephone contacts list. Flawless connectivity and new ways of personalising the car configuration. The navigation, communications and entertainment systems in the MINI Rocketman Concept represent the consistent further development of the functions already available through MINI Connected in current series-produced MINI cars. Intelligent connectivity turns the car into a mobile element of the driver's personal lifestyle. Internet-based services for communications, integrated navigation and an almost limitlessly expandable entertainment programme play a key role in maximising driving fun, comfort and safety. With the control elements developed for the MINI Rocketman Concept, personalised usage of these functions reaches a new level. The removable control unit (for comfort and connectivity functions) integrated into the Centre Speedo can be configured on a computer before the start of a journey, enabling the driver to transfer new music files, a navigation destination and contact details for mobile communications and internet usage into the vehicle with maximum convenience. These innovative control systems allow driving fun in a MINI to become an integrated component of the driver's personal lifestyle more than ever. Indeed, information, images, data, contacts and media can be made available in digital form for mobile usage anywhere – at home, at the workplace or while on the move. Known as the MINI Rocketman Concept, the mobile control unit stores telephone numbers and email contacts, as well as navigation data, internet addresses and full websites or messages from online social networks, music files, photos and videos. This provides a direct route into the MINI for additional sources of driving fun in the shape of new destinations, important contacts, up-to-date information, exciting sounds and powerful images. In the opposite direction, this extended connectivity can also enrich everyday life outside the car; for example, new contact details from telephone calls or online connections can also be made available outside the car via the MINI Rocketman Concept. MINI Rocketman Concept: compact dimensions, new format, the usual driving fun. The MINI Rocketman Concept once again brings the traditional principles of the classic Mini onto the road through the introduction of innovative ideas. The creativity of the MINI design team enables them to transfer fundamental MINI features and values into a groundbreaking new vehicle concept in untarnished form. As a vision of the urban mobility of tomorrow, the MINI Rocketman Concept captures the imagination with its unflappable charisma, surprising variability, and lifestyle-oriented functionality, and provides the ideal platform for agile and efficient driving characteristics. While the study showcases a new format, MINI still remains true to its blood-line. More than 50 years ago the brand's first car triggered a revolution in the small car segment. The classic Mini met the needs of urban mobility more comprehensively than any other vehicle before it, while at the same time offering the driving fun and individual style that sealed its legendary status. Today MINI continues to fulfil – in its own unique way – the desires of demanding target groups with a sense for the creative use of space, inspiring handling and premium quality. The MINI Rocketman Concept offers a glimpse of how these features may look in the future. Using innovative technology and creative solutions, the study reflects the brand's unsurpassed expertise in the development of vehicle concepts producing maximum interior versatility within minimal exterior dimensions – and all while delivering unbeatable driving fun.

Jaguar XKR-S Posted: 22 Feb 2011 11:04 PM PST While we’re being bombard with stupid EVs and hybrids, it’s so cool to see cars like the new Jaguar XKR-S! It is a naughtier version of the XKR, and with 550 bhp it is the most potent series production car Jaguar has ever built. But it’s not just the power, the XKR-S also looks fantastic. It is noticeably different than the normal XKRs with a brand-new face that is a result of an aerodynamic kit. It gets a revised bumper with an air splitter, new headlights, a aggressive bonnet, awesome air intakes on the sides of the front bumper, new taller side skirts, a new a rear diffuser and a rear spoiler. It is to all intents and purposes the ultimate Jag XK. The car also benefits from bespoke suspension changes to the front and rear offer ultimate precision, control and driver appeal, while a reprogrammed Adaptive Dynamics system allows the enthusiastic driver to explore the edges of the handling envelope. Those tweaks were much needed to cope with the fury of what’s under the bonnet. The revised supercharged V8 in the XKR-S delivers 550PS and 680Nm of torque. It gives the car a blistering performance. 0-60mph takes 4.2 seconds, with 0-100mph dismissed in just 8.6 seconds, and the top speed 186mph (300km/h). Superb! "The XKR-S is a bold and exciting new model for Jaguar," said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar's new Global Brand Director. "We expect to attract both loyal and new Jaguar driving enthusiasts who still want the comfort, opulence and class only a Jaguar can offer, combined with inspirational performance." More images, details and video of the XKR-S will be released at the Geneva Motor Show. Alongside the exciting new XKR-S, Jaguar will be marking the 50th anniversary of the E-Type with the first in a series of celebrations that take place during 2011. Jaguar will be hosting E-Type drives at the Parc des Eaux Vives in Geneva, where the original car was launched by the marque's founder Sir William Lyons half a century ago. The appeal of E-Type transcended the automotive world. Such is the inherent rightness of its proportions, stance and purity of line, that it is a permanent exhibit in New York's Museum of Modern Art. Its influence is still apparent in Jaguar's modern range – products that offer a peerless blend of performance, comfort, cutting-edge technology and award-winning design. "It is impossible to overstate the impact the E-Type had," said Ian Callum, Jaguar Design Director. "Here was a car that encapsulated the spirit of the revolutionary era it came to symbolise. We're looking forward to celebrating achievement and looking forward with our all-new sports cars in Geneva."

2011 Aston Martin Virage Posted: 22 Feb 2011 10:51 PM PST Just out of the blue Aston Martin came up with a new car, sort of, for the Geneva Motor Show. It’s called the Aston Martin Virage, and it’s basically a DB9 with the Rapide’s face. Aston says the Virage is the next level of evolution in their VH architecture and offers a more elegant and dynamic and prestigious Grand Tourer than the DB9. But they already have such a car and it’s called the DBS! We have a sneaking suspicion this Aston Martin is made just to fill a gap in the market and not to be a new and amazing AM. That’s not very British to be honest. Available as both coupe and convertible (Volante) variants, the Virage slots between the DBS and the Rapide. It tries to mix DBS’ sportiness with Rapide’s comfort and luxury. The car’s new aluminium metal front grille is inspired by the One-77 while the bumper has a resemblance to the V12 Vantage. It’s fair to say the Virage is a mishmash of Aston’s various models. The Virage even has the same front mid-mounted V12 as the rest of the range, but no complaints here because it is a superb powertrain and provides plenty of grunt when you need it and it’s also soft and cuddly when you are not in the mood for fast driving. In this car, the hand-built 6.0 litre V12 engine produces 490 bhp (365 kW/497 PS)  and 570 nM (420 lb. Ft) of torque and through its carbon fibre prop shaft, is mated to a six-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission mounted on the transaxle contributing to perfect 50:50 weight balance. The Virage's dynamics have been tuned to deliver an engaging yet more refined driving experience, where the driver can extract the maximum performance from the car with greater ease. A newly developed Adaptive Damping System (ADS) intelligently 'reads' the road to provide optimum road holding, adapting to different conditions. The system now selects up to five different stiffness settings within normal mode, and a further five stiffer settings within sport mode. As usual you get a sport button that enhances throttle response, gear change ferocity and the overall sportiness. Aston Martin Virage also comes with Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes as standard. Powerful, resistant to fade and much lighter than conventional cast-iron discs, the CCM braking system means that not only is the overall vehicle weight reduced, but the weight saving at each wheel means that a better balance between ride comfort and handling can be struck. Lower rotational mass also provides improved acceleration. Each Virage will have 70 man hours of expert craftsmanship lavished on the interior alone to create the famous sophisticated Aston Martin interior. In all, over 200 man hours will be spent handcrafting the Virage at Aston Martin's global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, England as it becomes the tenth major production car to be built there in the space of less than eight years. Don’t expect to see new things inside the cabin, since it’s pretty much the same as the DBS. But it gets a new fully integrated Satellite Navigation system that has been developed in conjunction with Garmin featuring a 6.5 inch high resolution display uses the latest graphics and maps to visually and aurally guide the driver to their destination. Standard equipment includes heated seats (Sports seats only), cruise control, satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephone preparation and the powerful 700W Aston Martin Premium Audio System with Dolby® Pro Logic II® and full iPod® integration. The Virage and Virage Volante are on sale now, even though the pricing is yet to be confirmed!

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