Citroen C4 Picasso: the lowdown
Citroen’s new five-seater compact MPV has arrived on UK shores to take on the likes of the Renault Scenic and the Toyota Verso. The C4 Picasso is essentially a stubbier version of the (subtly renamed) Grand C4 Picasso, Citroen’s seven-seater MPV which went on sale last year. And you could be forgiven for confusing the two - at the front, there’s not much difference apart from an extra couple of slashes in the bumper. However, this C4 is 120mm shorter than the Grand version, and the rear end has been completely redesigned. The tail-light clusters are now positioned neatly below the newly sloping rear windscreen and there’s a dinky roof spoiler to add a 'sporting' touch.
Any changes inside?
Not really, apart from having two fewer seats than the Grand C4 Picasso. Expect Citroen’s usual quirky bits and bobs, such as the fixed centre steering wheel and huge panoramic windscreen. The C4 Picasso is available with five engine options ranging from a 1.8-litre petrol with a five-speed manual gearbox to the range-topping 2.0-litre HDI with an electronic paddleshift ‘box. Prices start at £14,495 for the entry-level 1.8 LX and top out at £21,195 for the kitted-out HDi Exclusive. They're all on sale now.
Thứ Bảy, 3 tháng 3, 2012
Fiat 500 (2007): first official pictures
Is it a Trepiuno, Cinquecento or 500?
Welcome to the new Fiat 500 - due to launched 50 years to the day after the unveiling of the original 500. That car became an icon, and Fiat is hoping for more of the same with this modern interpretation, the most exciting launch in Turin for a generation. On 4 July 1957, the original 500 marked the culmination of the Italian manufacturer’s post-war revival: the new car will again be crucial to Fiat, consolidating the success of the Panda, Grande Punto and Bravo.
So what’s changed since the Trepiuno concept?
Not a lot. Massive public interest after the car was shown at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show convinced Fiat to put the 500 into production, and thankfully it remains faithful to the concept. So it's pretty cool, then. There have only been detail changes: the Trepiuno's door handles and indicators have been replaced by more conventional items, the rear lights are no longer smoked, and the exhaust has been moved from its central position. The rest of the exterior is near identical, especially the wonderful proportions.
Welcome to the new Fiat 500 - due to launched 50 years to the day after the unveiling of the original 500. That car became an icon, and Fiat is hoping for more of the same with this modern interpretation, the most exciting launch in Turin for a generation. On 4 July 1957, the original 500 marked the culmination of the Italian manufacturer’s post-war revival: the new car will again be crucial to Fiat, consolidating the success of the Panda, Grande Punto and Bravo.
So what’s changed since the Trepiuno concept?
Not a lot. Massive public interest after the car was shown at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show convinced Fiat to put the 500 into production, and thankfully it remains faithful to the concept. So it's pretty cool, then. There have only been detail changes: the Trepiuno's door handles and indicators have been replaced by more conventional items, the rear lights are no longer smoked, and the exhaust has been moved from its central position. The rest of the exterior is near identical, especially the wonderful proportions.
Caparo T1 (2007): first official pictures
Not another super cars games?
Afraid so, though that’s hardly a bad thing. And unlike the numerous other sketches and concept cars that seem to appear by the day, deliveries of the Caparo T1 will start in May. It will also be running up the hill at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in June. However, since the car was first unveiled last year it has undergone a few changes. Read on to find out what the team in Basingstoke has done to create the British Bugatti...
So what’s new then?
Gone is the supercharged 2.4-litre V8, and in comes a bespoke, all-aluminium, naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V8. Of course, this means more power. Rather than a measly 480bhp, especially in the days of 600bhp S-classes, the new engine promises up to 200bhp per litre. That’ll be 700bhp, then. Oh, and it’ll run on sustainable fuels too.
Afraid so, though that’s hardly a bad thing. And unlike the numerous other sketches and concept cars that seem to appear by the day, deliveries of the Caparo T1 will start in May. It will also be running up the hill at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in June. However, since the car was first unveiled last year it has undergone a few changes. Read on to find out what the team in Basingstoke has done to create the British Bugatti...
So what’s new then?
Gone is the supercharged 2.4-litre V8, and in comes a bespoke, all-aluminium, naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V8. Of course, this means more power. Rather than a measly 480bhp, especially in the days of 600bhp S-classes, the new engine promises up to 200bhp per litre. That’ll be 700bhp, then. Oh, and it’ll run on sustainable fuels too.
Infiniti G37 Coupe (2007): first official pictures
Infiniti G37: the lowdown
Infiniti has so far been a brand best known in the US, but over the next few years Europeans are going to hear a lot more about them. The brand is to Nissan what Lexus is to Toyota - the Japanese firm’s luxury brand. But while Lexus does luxury, Infiniti is chasing BMW. A range of saloons, 4x4s, and this sleek G37 coupe will be launched over here in autumn 2008.
So tell me more about the G37
As you can tell from the G37 badge, this coupe is related to the G35 saloon we recently tested. It's aimed at the Mercedes-Benz CLK and BMW 3-series coupe and has a 3.7-litre V6 under the bonnet. Derived from the 350Z engine, it’s bored out to give 330bhp and 270lb ft. It will be officially unveiled at April’s New York Motor Show and we’ll get behind the wheel soon after. It should be a cracking drive. When we tested its G35 sibling, we called it ‘as rewarding as anything a 3-series can deliver’, whilst the ride and steering were little short of ‘brilliant’. That's not bad for an upstart brand that's starting from scratch in Europe.
Infiniti has so far been a brand best known in the US, but over the next few years Europeans are going to hear a lot more about them. The brand is to Nissan what Lexus is to Toyota - the Japanese firm’s luxury brand. But while Lexus does luxury, Infiniti is chasing BMW. A range of saloons, 4x4s, and this sleek G37 coupe will be launched over here in autumn 2008.
So tell me more about the G37
As you can tell from the G37 badge, this coupe is related to the G35 saloon we recently tested. It's aimed at the Mercedes-Benz CLK and BMW 3-series coupe and has a 3.7-litre V6 under the bonnet. Derived from the 350Z engine, it’s bored out to give 330bhp and 270lb ft. It will be officially unveiled at April’s New York Motor Show and we’ll get behind the wheel soon after. It should be a cracking drive. When we tested its G35 sibling, we called it ‘as rewarding as anything a 3-series can deliver’, whilst the ride and steering were little short of ‘brilliant’. That's not bad for an upstart brand that's starting from scratch in Europe.
Hyundai Genesis Concept
Hyundai Genesis Concept: the lowdown
The first official pictures of Hyundai’s Genesis concept confirm that the company will soon be snapping at the heels of Lexus and Infiniti. The new executive saloon will be unveiled at the New York Show in April. There’s a 32-valve, 4.6-litre V8 under the hood sending power through a ZF six-speed auto and limited-slip diff to the rear wheels; we’re promised a 0-60mph time of less than 8.0 seconds. The rear end could be taken for a BMW at first glance, while the front could be a Lexus as it approaches and the sloping rear roofline is a homage to Infiniti. No interior pictures have been revealed, but this car is guaranteed to be loaded with kit for a sub-Infiniti price.
Will buyers warm to Hyundai?
They have so far. Hyundai celebrated its 20th year in the US in 2006, and sold 500,000 cars in its anniversary year. It has an enviable 56% loyalty from buyers and its large Azera sedan, a rival to the Toyota Avalon, did well in the Vehicle Satisfaction Awards presented by industry analysts AutoPacific. Like Toyota, it aims almost to be seen as a domestic brand. Its designers work at Irvine in California and it has recently invested $1.6bn in its plant in Alabama.
The first official pictures of Hyundai’s Genesis concept confirm that the company will soon be snapping at the heels of Lexus and Infiniti. The new executive saloon will be unveiled at the New York Show in April. There’s a 32-valve, 4.6-litre V8 under the hood sending power through a ZF six-speed auto and limited-slip diff to the rear wheels; we’re promised a 0-60mph time of less than 8.0 seconds. The rear end could be taken for a BMW at first glance, while the front could be a Lexus as it approaches and the sloping rear roofline is a homage to Infiniti. No interior pictures have been revealed, but this car is guaranteed to be loaded with kit for a sub-Infiniti price.
Will buyers warm to Hyundai?
They have so far. Hyundai celebrated its 20th year in the US in 2006, and sold 500,000 cars in its anniversary year. It has an enviable 56% loyalty from buyers and its large Azera sedan, a rival to the Toyota Avalon, did well in the Vehicle Satisfaction Awards presented by industry analysts AutoPacific. Like Toyota, it aims almost to be seen as a domestic brand. Its designers work at Irvine in California and it has recently invested $1.6bn in its plant in Alabama.
Infiniti EX Concept (2007): first official pictures
Infiniti EX Concept: the lowdown
Infiniti is Nissan’s answer to Lexus, a wannabe aspirational and luxurious brand aimed squarely at Audi, Mercedes and BMW's home turf. Nissan has enjoyed a reasonable success with Infiniti in the US, and they're coming to Europe next year. The new EX, shown today for the first time in concept form, is to be unveiled at the New York Motor Show in April - and it will spearhead the launch in Europe in 2008. This is Infiniti's bid to lure us away from their BMW X3 and Lexus RX rivals. Are we impressed? Well, on first acquaintance it looks like a slick crossover - with more than a hint of its big brother, the ultra-cool FX45...
So what’s the EX got that the X3 hasn’t?
At least an extra 500cc. The EX will come with the 3.5-litre V6 currently found under the bonnet of the Nissan 350Z, so it’s likely to be packing some healthy horsepower. We're talking around 300bhp, and Infiniti is promising a barrage of technology as standard, including blind-spot cameras and lane departure warning systems. The downside to the EX is that there will be no diesel option available for the first two years of production, which is pretty crucial for the European market. Infiniti has a Renault-derived V6 TD unit lined up for 2010, and it can't come soon enough.
Infiniti is Nissan’s answer to Lexus, a wannabe aspirational and luxurious brand aimed squarely at Audi, Mercedes and BMW's home turf. Nissan has enjoyed a reasonable success with Infiniti in the US, and they're coming to Europe next year. The new EX, shown today for the first time in concept form, is to be unveiled at the New York Motor Show in April - and it will spearhead the launch in Europe in 2008. This is Infiniti's bid to lure us away from their BMW X3 and Lexus RX rivals. Are we impressed? Well, on first acquaintance it looks like a slick crossover - with more than a hint of its big brother, the ultra-cool FX45...
So what’s the EX got that the X3 hasn’t?
At least an extra 500cc. The EX will come with the 3.5-litre V6 currently found under the bonnet of the Nissan 350Z, so it’s likely to be packing some healthy horsepower. We're talking around 300bhp, and Infiniti is promising a barrage of technology as standard, including blind-spot cameras and lane departure warning systems. The downside to the EX is that there will be no diesel option available for the first two years of production, which is pretty crucial for the European market. Infiniti has a Renault-derived V6 TD unit lined up for 2010, and it can't come soon enough.
Hummer H2 (2007): first official pictures
Hummer H2: the lowdown
It’s best not to look directly at the new Hummer H2 in sunlight; you’ll be blinded by bling. New bits of glitz have appeared on the 2008 model, going on sale later in the year, including newly chromed door handles and a larger, lower grille. This grille, along with larger gaps in the seven-slot full-frontal smirk, helps to cool the more powerful 6.2-litre V8. Otherwise the exterior remains much the same, but the interior has been seriously plushed-up. The all-aluminium small-bock V8 delivers 393bhp, an increase of 20 percent, while torque swells to 415lb ft from 365. We’re promised that variable-valve timing and the six-speed transmission increase efficiency although no figures are given. But then, any improvement over 15mpg would be good...
What’s inside?
The rap stars and moms who so frequently drive this macho beast will appreciate the all-new interior. Instead of the previous austere environment, we’re promised improved materials, leather seats with smart piping and interior gap tolerances of 1mm or less. Kids in the back get a new rear-seat overhead DVD system and a full third-row seat for two with its own heating and cooling vents. The H2 will be able to clamber over rocks just as before, and new safety features for on or off-road include a new electronic stability control system with roll-over mitigation and roof-rail head curtains. It can tow 8000lb, too, and a rear-view camera will help hitch the trailer. Clearly, the H2 is aimed squarely at the US market, and other space-abundant markets; only its smaller H3 brother is deemed small enough to be sold in the more congested European market.
It’s best not to look directly at the new Hummer H2 in sunlight; you’ll be blinded by bling. New bits of glitz have appeared on the 2008 model, going on sale later in the year, including newly chromed door handles and a larger, lower grille. This grille, along with larger gaps in the seven-slot full-frontal smirk, helps to cool the more powerful 6.2-litre V8. Otherwise the exterior remains much the same, but the interior has been seriously plushed-up. The all-aluminium small-bock V8 delivers 393bhp, an increase of 20 percent, while torque swells to 415lb ft from 365. We’re promised that variable-valve timing and the six-speed transmission increase efficiency although no figures are given. But then, any improvement over 15mpg would be good...
What’s inside?
The rap stars and moms who so frequently drive this macho beast will appreciate the all-new interior. Instead of the previous austere environment, we’re promised improved materials, leather seats with smart piping and interior gap tolerances of 1mm or less. Kids in the back get a new rear-seat overhead DVD system and a full third-row seat for two with its own heating and cooling vents. The H2 will be able to clamber over rocks just as before, and new safety features for on or off-road include a new electronic stability control system with roll-over mitigation and roof-rail head curtains. It can tow 8000lb, too, and a rear-view camera will help hitch the trailer. Clearly, the H2 is aimed squarely at the US market, and other space-abundant markets; only its smaller H3 brother is deemed small enough to be sold in the more congested European market.
Cadillac STS (2007): first official pictures
Cadillac STS: the lowdown
A new in-yer-face grille will let neighbours know who’s driving a 2008 Cadillac STS. GM’s luxury barge is bigger than ever, and a restyle gives it a confident American look, sharing elements with the flagship Escalade SUV. The multi-faceted grille was first seen on the Sixteen concept, and incorporated onto both Escalade and the 2008 CTS. The Sixteen’s side air extractors also appear on the STS, too. The STS will be available with a new cleaner direct-injection V6 when it goes on sale in the summer; it's the first GM vehicle to be equipped with the new 3.6-litre direct-injection V6 delivering 298hp and 268lb ft, and this will be the first V6 mated to a Hydra-matic six-speed auto. The pairing promises to cut cold-start hydrocarbons by a quarter, while improving fuel consumption by 15 percent. Neat.
Ok, but will it drive better than the current STS?
A new performance handling package will be available for V8 RWD and 4WD models, and rear-drive V6s. This includes 18in chrome-plated wheels with summer-only tyres. Brembo brakes with four-piston calipers provide enhanced braking, too. StabiliTrak is standard on V8 models and it now combines active front steering to turn the front wheels into a skid when the rear wheels lose traction. One great new gadget is optional radar-based blind-spot alert. Not so great is lane-departure warning, which has proved extremely annoying on other vehicles. The STS lands in the UK in right-hand drive form at the end of 2007.
A new in-yer-face grille will let neighbours know who’s driving a 2008 Cadillac STS. GM’s luxury barge is bigger than ever, and a restyle gives it a confident American look, sharing elements with the flagship Escalade SUV. The multi-faceted grille was first seen on the Sixteen concept, and incorporated onto both Escalade and the 2008 CTS. The Sixteen’s side air extractors also appear on the STS, too. The STS will be available with a new cleaner direct-injection V6 when it goes on sale in the summer; it's the first GM vehicle to be equipped with the new 3.6-litre direct-injection V6 delivering 298hp and 268lb ft, and this will be the first V6 mated to a Hydra-matic six-speed auto. The pairing promises to cut cold-start hydrocarbons by a quarter, while improving fuel consumption by 15 percent. Neat.
Ok, but will it drive better than the current STS?
A new performance handling package will be available for V8 RWD and 4WD models, and rear-drive V6s. This includes 18in chrome-plated wheels with summer-only tyres. Brembo brakes with four-piston calipers provide enhanced braking, too. StabiliTrak is standard on V8 models and it now combines active front steering to turn the front wheels into a skid when the rear wheels lose traction. One great new gadget is optional radar-based blind-spot alert. Not so great is lane-departure warning, which has proved extremely annoying on other vehicles. The STS lands in the UK in right-hand drive form at the end of 2007.
Hummer H2 SUT (2007): first official pictures
Hummer H2 SUT
The H2 SUT gains the same 393hp 6.2-litre V8 and six-speed box as the SUV, plus its more refined interior. This might seem incongruous to a Brit: a pick-up is a working vehicle, right? Not in the States. Come any public holiday in America, Hummer owners require somewhere to dump wet gear associated with the boat, jet ski, or whatever else they towed to the nearest water. Self-levelling rear air-spring suspension is available for extreme off-roading or towing on the SUV and SUT.
Ok, so it'll lug my jet ski, but what about my mates?
The SUT can seat four inside, plus gear and pooches in the 4ft by 6ft pick-up bed. If more cargo space is needed, you can lower the rear window and fold the midgate and rear seat down to create a longer bed. At the push of a button, the driver can also lower all four side windows, plus the rear windows to get some breeze in the follicles. The extra chrome will also go down well with cruising owners; the SUT is a favourtite with ‘urban’ customisers.
The H2 SUT gains the same 393hp 6.2-litre V8 and six-speed box as the SUV, plus its more refined interior. This might seem incongruous to a Brit: a pick-up is a working vehicle, right? Not in the States. Come any public holiday in America, Hummer owners require somewhere to dump wet gear associated with the boat, jet ski, or whatever else they towed to the nearest water. Self-levelling rear air-spring suspension is available for extreme off-roading or towing on the SUV and SUT.
Ok, so it'll lug my jet ski, but what about my mates?
The SUT can seat four inside, plus gear and pooches in the 4ft by 6ft pick-up bed. If more cargo space is needed, you can lower the rear window and fold the midgate and rear seat down to create a longer bed. At the push of a button, the driver can also lower all four side windows, plus the rear windows to get some breeze in the follicles. The extra chrome will also go down well with cruising owners; the SUT is a favourtite with ‘urban’ customisers.
Chevrolet Trax (2007): infomation
Chevrolet Trax: the lowdown
How low can you go in the US? That’s the question three compact concepts are asking the public at next week's New York Motor Show. GM revealed just one of the mini car games today - this cute, four-door Trax. It’s smaller than the Kalos/Aveo supermini and powered by a 1.0-litre engine. The Trax, and its yet-to-be-seen siblings, is designed to gauge public enthusiasm for a truly tiny car in the US. All three cars were created at GM’s design studio in Incheon, South Korea, and built on GM’s global mini architecture. They’re designed to appeal to young buyers in urban markets with the promise of fun, economy and value. It also points to a replacement for today's Chevrolet Matiz for Europe. Visitors to the show will be able to vote for their favorite of the three on www.vote4chevrolet.com. The results will show GM which design resonates best with potential buyers.
How low can you go in the US? That’s the question three compact concepts are asking the public at next week's New York Motor Show. GM revealed just one of the mini car games today - this cute, four-door Trax. It’s smaller than the Kalos/Aveo supermini and powered by a 1.0-litre engine. The Trax, and its yet-to-be-seen siblings, is designed to gauge public enthusiasm for a truly tiny car in the US. All three cars were created at GM’s design studio in Incheon, South Korea, and built on GM’s global mini architecture. They’re designed to appeal to young buyers in urban markets with the promise of fun, economy and value. It also points to a replacement for today's Chevrolet Matiz for Europe. Visitors to the show will be able to vote for their favorite of the three on www.vote4chevrolet.com. The results will show GM which design resonates best with potential buyers.
Thứ Năm, 1 tháng 3, 2012
Ford Focus Estate (2010) at Geneva motor show
Ford has shown off the new estate version of the Focus family on the eve of the 2010 Geneva motor show. The new Focus wagon is one of 10 bodystyles planned off Ford's new global C-segment architecture.
The new third-gen Focus family doesn't come to the UK until spring 2011, and although the estate is likely to make up only a small proportion of UK sales, it is set to be the second biggest selling bodystyle globally, predicts Ford.
New Ford Focus Estate (2010): the details
Remind you of a Mondeo estate? It does us, especially in profile. However, the new Focus Estate has a character of its own, with intriguing crease lines down the flank of the car. Like on modern Seats, the line is disrupted with different details picked out.
The estate has a roomy boot and a simple lift-up tailgate (which will be available with a powered option).
When can I buy the new Focus?
There's a bit of a wait; the five-door hatch goes on sale first in spring 2011, followed soon after by the estate. The first C-segment vehicles off the new platform will be the C-Max and Grand C-Max arriving in September 2010.
Ford of Europe chief John Fleming announced in Geneva that a new global performance derivative would join the Focus family, produced by Jost Capito the man behind the Focus RS and ST range. While those badges haven't yet been confirmed for Mk3, the new hot Focus will be a global car for the US as well as Europe, and will feature EcoBoost power.
The current 2.0-litre turbo direct injection EcoBoost engine develops 200bhp, but it can be tweaked up to 240bhp, insiders tell CAR GAMES.
The new third-gen Focus family doesn't come to the UK until spring 2011, and although the estate is likely to make up only a small proportion of UK sales, it is set to be the second biggest selling bodystyle globally, predicts Ford.
New Ford Focus Estate (2010): the details
Remind you of a Mondeo estate? It does us, especially in profile. However, the new Focus Estate has a character of its own, with intriguing crease lines down the flank of the car. Like on modern Seats, the line is disrupted with different details picked out.
The estate has a roomy boot and a simple lift-up tailgate (which will be available with a powered option).
When can I buy the new Focus?
There's a bit of a wait; the five-door hatch goes on sale first in spring 2011, followed soon after by the estate. The first C-segment vehicles off the new platform will be the C-Max and Grand C-Max arriving in September 2010.
Ford of Europe chief John Fleming announced in Geneva that a new global performance derivative would join the Focus family, produced by Jost Capito the man behind the Focus RS and ST range. While those badges haven't yet been confirmed for Mk3, the new hot Focus will be a global car for the US as well as Europe, and will feature EcoBoost power.
The current 2.0-litre turbo direct injection EcoBoost engine develops 200bhp, but it can be tweaked up to 240bhp, insiders tell CAR GAMES.
VW Sharan MPV (2010) at Geneva motor show
This is the new Volkswagen Sharan, and it’s about time too - the original was launched in 1995. In the time it’s taken VW to replace the Sharan, Ford has ditched its Sharan-based Galaxy, launched a new version using S-Max and Mondeo parts, and facelifted it.
We’ve all laughed at the geriatric Saab 9-5, but for the mighty Volkswagen Group this seems like a serious oversight. The new VW Sharan was launched tonight – along with the Polo GTI and Mk2 Touareg – at the company’s huge pre-Geneva 2010 party.
Volkswagen has had enough time to get the new car right – how good is the new VW Sharan?
According to the company, it’s 'the most advanced people carrier Volkswagen has ever produced' and there’s the promise of class-leading refinement, practicality and efficiency.
For a start both rear doors now slide (electrically if you pay for it), allowing easier access to rows two and three. The three seats in the middle row slide back and forth by up to 160mm, pivot forward by 20 degrees to allow easy access to the rear row, and both the second and third row of seats can fold flat into the floor.
On the outside VW’s design team has taken cues from the new Polo – inspiration would be the wrong word – and there’ll be a Seat version shown in autumn 2010. It’s big and slab-sided (we’re aware there’s a boat in the background of one of our images!) but that also means more space inside. And although the Mk2 Sharan is 220mm longer (including a 75mm wheelbase stretch) and 92mm wider than its predecessor – it’s also 12mm lower – the new MPV actually weights 30kg less than the car it replaces.
Under the bonnet there’s the option of two petrol and two diesel engines; we expect the 2.0-litre TDI (available with 138 or 168bhp) to be the big seller, but ex-Golf GTI owners might plump for the 197bhp 2.0-litre petrol. The final choice is a 1.4 TSI with 148bhp. The lower-power diesel manages 52.3mpg and emits just 143g/km CO2.
On the options is sat-nav, VW’s Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) system with three different damper settings (including a Sport mode) and the latest Park Assist device. UK sales start in August 2010, and prices and specifications will be announced later this year.
We’ve all laughed at the geriatric Saab 9-5, but for the mighty Volkswagen Group this seems like a serious oversight. The new VW Sharan was launched tonight – along with the Polo GTI and Mk2 Touareg – at the company’s huge pre-Geneva 2010 party.
Volkswagen has had enough time to get the new car right – how good is the new VW Sharan?
According to the company, it’s 'the most advanced people carrier Volkswagen has ever produced' and there’s the promise of class-leading refinement, practicality and efficiency.
For a start both rear doors now slide (electrically if you pay for it), allowing easier access to rows two and three. The three seats in the middle row slide back and forth by up to 160mm, pivot forward by 20 degrees to allow easy access to the rear row, and both the second and third row of seats can fold flat into the floor.
On the outside VW’s design team has taken cues from the new Polo – inspiration would be the wrong word – and there’ll be a Seat version shown in autumn 2010. It’s big and slab-sided (we’re aware there’s a boat in the background of one of our images!) but that also means more space inside. And although the Mk2 Sharan is 220mm longer (including a 75mm wheelbase stretch) and 92mm wider than its predecessor – it’s also 12mm lower – the new MPV actually weights 30kg less than the car it replaces.
Under the bonnet there’s the option of two petrol and two diesel engines; we expect the 2.0-litre TDI (available with 138 or 168bhp) to be the big seller, but ex-Golf GTI owners might plump for the 197bhp 2.0-litre petrol. The final choice is a 1.4 TSI with 148bhp. The lower-power diesel manages 52.3mpg and emits just 143g/km CO2.
On the options is sat-nav, VW’s Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) system with three different damper settings (including a Sport mode) and the latest Park Assist device. UK sales start in August 2010, and prices and specifications will be announced later this year.
Lambo Superleggera (2010) at Geneva motor show
This beautiful green beast is the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera, unveiled tonight at the Volkswagen Group’s big party ahead of tomorrow’s 2010 Geneva motor show.
This LP570-4 Superleggera will hit 62mph in 3.4 seconds (its predecessor took four tenths longer and the LP560-4 needs 3.7 seconds for the benchmark sprint), dash past 124mph after 10.2 seconds, and reach 202mph flat out. It’s not a harder, faster version of the special edition, rear-drive Balboni Gallardo, but a harder, faster version of the regular LP560-4.
Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera? That means four-wheel drive and close to 570bhp, right?
Spot on. LP stands for ‘longitudinale posteriore’ and means the glorious 5.2-litre engine is mounted longitudinally behind the driver, as in all Gallardos. The ‘570’ designates the output in PS, and ‘4’ means the power goes to both axles.
Over and above the regular LP560-4 Gallardo there is only a modest increase in power (9bhp), but there’s still 562bhp delivered at a howling 8000rpm. And that 562bhp means the dry-sumped V10 produces 108bhp/litre, along with a total of 398lb ft at 6500rpm. Incidentally, the Superleggera's power output, top speed and 0-62mph time match those of the new Ferrari 458 Italia exactly...
The fact that an E-gear equipped Superleggera will spit of 319g/km CO2 and consume a gallon of fuel every 20.9 miles – it’s 344g/km and 19.6mpg if you pick the six-speed manual – might not sound that impressive. Yet put the new Superleggera back-to-back with its 5.0-litre predecessor and Lamborghini claims a 20.5% improvement in fuel consumption and emissions. Thank direct injection for that, and for the increases over the old car’s 523bhp and 375lb ft.
Superleggeras aren’t just about power figures though – how light is the new car?
Superleggera means ‘superlight’ and 70kg has been cut from the kerbweight, giving the LP570-4 Gallardo a dry weight of 1340kg. Some of you might not be too impressed – the first-gen Superleggera was 100kg lighter than standard and tipped the scales at 1330kg – but you can't call Lamborghini's efforts half hearted.
The rear and side windows are no longer glass but polycarbonate, as is the engine cover. The rear deck is carbonfibre, along with the side sills, rear diffuser, fixed spoiler, door mirror casings and various bits of the underbody panelling. Inside the transmission tunnel, door cards and frames of the Alcantara-trimmed seats are all carbon. In total the black stuff accounts for 40 of the 70kg Lambo’s engineers have saved.
Air-con and electric windows are standard, you still get mats and you can spec sat-nav, a nose-lift system and a rear-view camera. There are a few showy options too, including a carbon package for the engine bay, or for the interior that trims the centre console, instrument panel, handbrake, wheel and door handles. Also on offer is an R8-inspired LED package that illuminates the V10, plus coloured brake callipers, though the steel roll cage, fire extinguisher, four-point harness and ceramic brakes are the options that caught the eyes of the CAR office
This LP570-4 Superleggera will hit 62mph in 3.4 seconds (its predecessor took four tenths longer and the LP560-4 needs 3.7 seconds for the benchmark sprint), dash past 124mph after 10.2 seconds, and reach 202mph flat out. It’s not a harder, faster version of the special edition, rear-drive Balboni Gallardo, but a harder, faster version of the regular LP560-4.
Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera? That means four-wheel drive and close to 570bhp, right?
Spot on. LP stands for ‘longitudinale posteriore’ and means the glorious 5.2-litre engine is mounted longitudinally behind the driver, as in all Gallardos. The ‘570’ designates the output in PS, and ‘4’ means the power goes to both axles.
Over and above the regular LP560-4 Gallardo there is only a modest increase in power (9bhp), but there’s still 562bhp delivered at a howling 8000rpm. And that 562bhp means the dry-sumped V10 produces 108bhp/litre, along with a total of 398lb ft at 6500rpm. Incidentally, the Superleggera's power output, top speed and 0-62mph time match those of the new Ferrari 458 Italia exactly...
The fact that an E-gear equipped Superleggera will spit of 319g/km CO2 and consume a gallon of fuel every 20.9 miles – it’s 344g/km and 19.6mpg if you pick the six-speed manual – might not sound that impressive. Yet put the new Superleggera back-to-back with its 5.0-litre predecessor and Lamborghini claims a 20.5% improvement in fuel consumption and emissions. Thank direct injection for that, and for the increases over the old car’s 523bhp and 375lb ft.
Superleggeras aren’t just about power figures though – how light is the new car?
Superleggera means ‘superlight’ and 70kg has been cut from the kerbweight, giving the LP570-4 Gallardo a dry weight of 1340kg. Some of you might not be too impressed – the first-gen Superleggera was 100kg lighter than standard and tipped the scales at 1330kg – but you can't call Lamborghini's efforts half hearted.
The rear and side windows are no longer glass but polycarbonate, as is the engine cover. The rear deck is carbonfibre, along with the side sills, rear diffuser, fixed spoiler, door mirror casings and various bits of the underbody panelling. Inside the transmission tunnel, door cards and frames of the Alcantara-trimmed seats are all carbon. In total the black stuff accounts for 40 of the 70kg Lambo’s engineers have saved.
Air-con and electric windows are standard, you still get mats and you can spec sat-nav, a nose-lift system and a rear-view camera. There are a few showy options too, including a carbon package for the engine bay, or for the interior that trims the centre console, instrument panel, handbrake, wheel and door handles. Also on offer is an R8-inspired LED package that illuminates the V10, plus coloured brake callipers, though the steel roll cage, fire extinguisher, four-point harness and ceramic brakes are the options that caught the eyes of the CAR office
Porsche 918 Spyder (2010) at Geneva motor show
Porsche has shown off this stunning new 918 Spyder concept cars games on the eve of the 2010 Geneva motor show. It’s a mid-engined two-seater in the mould of the Porsche Carrera GT – a landmark supercar to showcase Porsche’s technical nous.
Michael Macht, president and chief executive officer of Porsche, unveiled the 918 Spyder in Switzerland, and intriguingly proclaimed that Porsche has never shown a concept car that it hasn’t put into production…
Wow! What do we know about the Porsche 918 Spyder?
Porsche’s official press release was light on the details, but after the unveil Porsche’s R&D chief Wolfgang Durheimer talked CAR around the 918 Spyder and revealed some eye-popping figures for this part-electric hybrid supercar which weighs in at 'less than 1490kg'.
For a start, we need to think of the 918 Spyder as the latest Porsche road car to be born from a race car. ‘Just as the GT1 race car became a GT1 road car, and the LMP1 morphed into the Carrera GT, so the 918 Spyder is the street car version of the RS Spyder’, Durheimer told CAR.
In concept car form, the 918 Spyder uses the same mid-mounted 3.4-litre V8 that has powered the American Le Mans Series RS Spyder, but the engine will grow if (or when) the concept reaches production. Just as the Carrera GT’s 5.7-litre V10 was born as a 5.5, Durheimer revealed that a 4.6-litre V8 had been calculated as ideal for the stunning new 918 supercar. A seven-speed PDK gearbox sends the engine’s power to the rear wheels.
But the 918 Spyder isn’t just petrol powered – there are three electric motors which drive the front axle. It’s not a flywheel system similar to that on the GT3 R Hybrid racer, or a hybrid system as in the new Cayenne Hybrid, but a third plug-in solution.
The 918 Spyder is claimed to produce just 70g/km of CO2 and consume fuel at the rate of 94mpg when its plug-in hybrid module is working – yet it can lap the Nurburgring in under 7min 30sec.
The lithium ion batteries can power the 918 for 25km on electric power alone; a dial on the steering wheel lets the driver choose between Electric, Hybrid, Sport and Race modes.
Phew! Anything else about the new Porsche 918 Spyder?
Yes. There’s active aerodynamics: the rear spoiler lifts up at speed, and two intakes rise from the twin flying buttresses to help ram air into the hungry V8 engine.
Most of the major controls are also grouped onto the steering wheel, and Durheimer told CAR that the 918 Spyder showcases Porsche’s future interior design ideas.
Finally, the 918 Spyder has cameras that replace the door mirrors, and although they are not currently legal, Durheimer is hoping Porsche can convince the relevant legislators to give the technology the green light.
Michael Macht, president and chief executive officer of Porsche, unveiled the 918 Spyder in Switzerland, and intriguingly proclaimed that Porsche has never shown a concept car that it hasn’t put into production…
Wow! What do we know about the Porsche 918 Spyder?
Porsche’s official press release was light on the details, but after the unveil Porsche’s R&D chief Wolfgang Durheimer talked CAR around the 918 Spyder and revealed some eye-popping figures for this part-electric hybrid supercar which weighs in at 'less than 1490kg'.
For a start, we need to think of the 918 Spyder as the latest Porsche road car to be born from a race car. ‘Just as the GT1 race car became a GT1 road car, and the LMP1 morphed into the Carrera GT, so the 918 Spyder is the street car version of the RS Spyder’, Durheimer told CAR.
In concept car form, the 918 Spyder uses the same mid-mounted 3.4-litre V8 that has powered the American Le Mans Series RS Spyder, but the engine will grow if (or when) the concept reaches production. Just as the Carrera GT’s 5.7-litre V10 was born as a 5.5, Durheimer revealed that a 4.6-litre V8 had been calculated as ideal for the stunning new 918 supercar. A seven-speed PDK gearbox sends the engine’s power to the rear wheels.
But the 918 Spyder isn’t just petrol powered – there are three electric motors which drive the front axle. It’s not a flywheel system similar to that on the GT3 R Hybrid racer, or a hybrid system as in the new Cayenne Hybrid, but a third plug-in solution.
The 918 Spyder is claimed to produce just 70g/km of CO2 and consume fuel at the rate of 94mpg when its plug-in hybrid module is working – yet it can lap the Nurburgring in under 7min 30sec.
The lithium ion batteries can power the 918 for 25km on electric power alone; a dial on the steering wheel lets the driver choose between Electric, Hybrid, Sport and Race modes.
Phew! Anything else about the new Porsche 918 Spyder?
Yes. There’s active aerodynamics: the rear spoiler lifts up at speed, and two intakes rise from the twin flying buttresses to help ram air into the hungry V8 engine.
Most of the major controls are also grouped onto the steering wheel, and Durheimer told CAR that the 918 Spyder showcases Porsche’s future interior design ideas.
Finally, the 918 Spyder has cameras that replace the door mirrors, and although they are not currently legal, Durheimer is hoping Porsche can convince the relevant legislators to give the technology the green light.
Renault Clio Gordini RS, Megane GT at Geneva motor show
Renault’s Renaultsport tuning brand is out in force at the 2010 Geneva motor show. While the Megane CC and Wind were unveiled for more mainstream customers, Renault today revealed the new Renaultsport Clio Gordini 200 and a range of GT and GT Line models by tweaked by its in-house tuner.
Anything that involves a Renaultsport Clio is exciting. Tell me about the new Renaultsport Clio Gordini 200 please.
You’ll either love it or hate it. Rather than thoroughly re-engineer the Gordini-badged Renaultsport Clio, the French company has just liberally applied the blue paint. Now many of you will find that sacrilege, but underneath it’s still the dynamically brilliant Clio RS that CAR loves. That means a rev-hungry 2.0-litre engine producing 197bhp and an adjustable chassis. It’s quite possibly the best hot hatch on sale today.
The Gordini tweaks are designed to make the Renaultsport Clio stand out from the crowd: not everyone wants an Alien Green hatch with white Speedline wheels. So the Clio Gordini is Malta Blue with two white stripes, and inside there’s blue and black leather seats, a blue and black leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a few other Gordini-specific visual tweaks. The shaper Cup chassis is an option.
UK sales start this summer but prices have yet to be announced. We say save the money and spend that cash on getting a regular Renaultsport Clio with the Cup chassis, Recaro seats and Speedline wheels. Trust us, it’s a decision you won’t ever regret.
And what about these new Megane models I can see pictures off?
They’re also Renaultsport models: the GT and GT Line cars will be the base of a three-tier RS range, with regular Renaultsport models in the middle and Gordini models at the top.
Initially available across the Megane range (hatch, coupe, Sport Tourer estate and CC) all cars come with new front and rear bumpers, tweaked sports chassis, Megane 250 RS seats, aluminium pedals and carbon interior highlights. GT Line models also gets 17-inch wheels, while GT cars get 18s.
The GT cars are designed to be more exclusive, as some of the chassis components (and the steering wheel) come from the Megane 250, plus they are only available with either the TCe 180 petrol or the dCi 160 diesel engines. The GT Line models are less focussed, coming with the Sport chassis from the Megane Coupe and a number of eco-friendly engines. Both ranges go on sale in the UK this summer.
Anything else?
Yes. Also announced at the 2010 Geneva motor show was Renault’s first dual-clutch gearbox – dubbed EDC for Efficient Dual Clutch – and a bunch of Eco models. All 5 are diesel powered and offer ultra-low CO2 figures: the Twingo is the best, with just 94g/km, the Clio emits 98g/km, and the Megane, Scenic and Laguna Ecos respectively puff out 114, 125 and 122 g/km CO2.
The Paris motor show this autumn will be even bigger for Renault though: it’s then that we should see the first production versions of the electric vehicles due in 2011.
Anything that involves a Renaultsport Clio is exciting. Tell me about the new Renaultsport Clio Gordini 200 please.
You’ll either love it or hate it. Rather than thoroughly re-engineer the Gordini-badged Renaultsport Clio, the French company has just liberally applied the blue paint. Now many of you will find that sacrilege, but underneath it’s still the dynamically brilliant Clio RS that CAR loves. That means a rev-hungry 2.0-litre engine producing 197bhp and an adjustable chassis. It’s quite possibly the best hot hatch on sale today.
The Gordini tweaks are designed to make the Renaultsport Clio stand out from the crowd: not everyone wants an Alien Green hatch with white Speedline wheels. So the Clio Gordini is Malta Blue with two white stripes, and inside there’s blue and black leather seats, a blue and black leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a few other Gordini-specific visual tweaks. The shaper Cup chassis is an option.
UK sales start this summer but prices have yet to be announced. We say save the money and spend that cash on getting a regular Renaultsport Clio with the Cup chassis, Recaro seats and Speedline wheels. Trust us, it’s a decision you won’t ever regret.
And what about these new Megane models I can see pictures off?
They’re also Renaultsport models: the GT and GT Line cars will be the base of a three-tier RS range, with regular Renaultsport models in the middle and Gordini models at the top.
Initially available across the Megane range (hatch, coupe, Sport Tourer estate and CC) all cars come with new front and rear bumpers, tweaked sports chassis, Megane 250 RS seats, aluminium pedals and carbon interior highlights. GT Line models also gets 17-inch wheels, while GT cars get 18s.
The GT cars are designed to be more exclusive, as some of the chassis components (and the steering wheel) come from the Megane 250, plus they are only available with either the TCe 180 petrol or the dCi 160 diesel engines. The GT Line models are less focussed, coming with the Sport chassis from the Megane Coupe and a number of eco-friendly engines. Both ranges go on sale in the UK this summer.
Anything else?
Yes. Also announced at the 2010 Geneva motor show was Renault’s first dual-clutch gearbox – dubbed EDC for Efficient Dual Clutch – and a bunch of Eco models. All 5 are diesel powered and offer ultra-low CO2 figures: the Twingo is the best, with just 94g/km, the Clio emits 98g/km, and the Megane, Scenic and Laguna Ecos respectively puff out 114, 125 and 122 g/km CO2.
The Paris motor show this autumn will be even bigger for Renault though: it’s then that we should see the first production versions of the electric vehicles due in 2011.
Ferrari HY-KERS hybrid (2010) at Geneva motor show
Ferrari today showcased its latest green fuel tech in a new 599 GTB Fiorano concept car dubbed HY-KERS. Maranello announced a five-year eco plan in 2007 when it unveiled the Mille Chili and the HY-KERS is the latest step in the programme.
It's a high-performance supercar to display how frugal consumption and razor-sharp responses can go hand in hand, say the Ferrari engineers.
Ferrari HY-KERS: the detail
The 599 is equipped with a hybrid system claimed to add little extra weight over a conventional V12 599. All the electric gubbins are positioned below the centre of gravity, including the flat lithium ion batteries which sit beneath the floorpan. Ferrari claims the c-of-g is even lower than a regular petrol 599.
How have they achieved such marginal weight gain? Maranello says the new electric motor, generator and batteries are offset by the lack of a traditional starter motor and batteries. The HY-KERS system provides short bursts of extra acceleration when moving from a standstill and overtaking, but can provide full EV capability for short periods.
The electric motor weighs just 40kg and drives through the seven-speed twin-clutch transmission. Ferrari says it aimed to produce one extra horsepower for each kilogram gained in weight, so the e-motor develops more than 100bhp.
Ferrari says that the new direct-injection California and 458 Italia have already cut CO2 emisisons by 30% since 2007.
It's a high-performance supercar to display how frugal consumption and razor-sharp responses can go hand in hand, say the Ferrari engineers.
Ferrari HY-KERS: the detail
The 599 is equipped with a hybrid system claimed to add little extra weight over a conventional V12 599. All the electric gubbins are positioned below the centre of gravity, including the flat lithium ion batteries which sit beneath the floorpan. Ferrari claims the c-of-g is even lower than a regular petrol 599.
How have they achieved such marginal weight gain? Maranello says the new electric motor, generator and batteries are offset by the lack of a traditional starter motor and batteries. The HY-KERS system provides short bursts of extra acceleration when moving from a standstill and overtaking, but can provide full EV capability for short periods.
The electric motor weighs just 40kg and drives through the seven-speed twin-clutch transmission. Ferrari says it aimed to produce one extra horsepower for each kilogram gained in weight, so the e-motor develops more than 100bhp.
Ferrari says that the new direct-injection California and 458 Italia have already cut CO2 emisisons by 30% since 2007.
Seat IBE (2010) at Geneva motor show
Seat's new IBE concept car provided the thrills on the Spanish firm's stand at the 2010 Geneva motor show. Although more about the tech than the design, the IBE does drop a few clues to the next Leon family.
It's based on the running gear of the new Leon and packs a 75kW electric engine capable of daily use around town thanks to lithium ion batteries with 18kWh capacity. The IBE is a classic 2+2 shooting brake design and is teeny tiny; at 3780mm long, it's 10 inches shorter than an Ibiza supermini.
Seat IBE concept car: the electrical gubbins
The IBE packs an electric motor under bonnet driving the front wheels and fed by rear-mounted batteries. The 0-62mph dash takes 9.4sec, thanks to a 1000kg kerbweight designed by Seat dieticians working in collaboration with academics around Spain.
James Muir, president of Seat, said: ‘With the IBE we are demonstrating that, for Seat, electric mobility will always be combined with excellent design and outstanding driving fun. The IBE is in the best Seat tradition of always offering the boldest and most youthful cars in its class. On top of that, our first electric concept car represents the continuation of our strategy for the future.
‘Along with the huge success of the highly efficient Ecomotive models, we are now working intensively on electric mobility; and that includes plug-in hybrid drive, as well as an all-electric vehicle.’
It's based on the running gear of the new Leon and packs a 75kW electric engine capable of daily use around town thanks to lithium ion batteries with 18kWh capacity. The IBE is a classic 2+2 shooting brake design and is teeny tiny; at 3780mm long, it's 10 inches shorter than an Ibiza supermini.
Seat IBE concept car: the electrical gubbins
The IBE packs an electric motor under bonnet driving the front wheels and fed by rear-mounted batteries. The 0-62mph dash takes 9.4sec, thanks to a 1000kg kerbweight designed by Seat dieticians working in collaboration with academics around Spain.
James Muir, president of Seat, said: ‘With the IBE we are demonstrating that, for Seat, electric mobility will always be combined with excellent design and outstanding driving fun. The IBE is in the best Seat tradition of always offering the boldest and most youthful cars in its class. On top of that, our first electric concept car represents the continuation of our strategy for the future.
‘Along with the huge success of the highly efficient Ecomotive models, we are now working intensively on electric mobility; and that includes plug-in hybrid drive, as well as an all-electric vehicle.’
Mercedes E300 Bluetec Hybrid (2010) at Geneva motor show
Mercedes unveiled its first ever diesel hybrid at the 2010 Geneva motor, along with a Bluetec version of its ageing Geländewagen and an SLS AMG supercar decked out in full F1 safety car spec.
Does the Mercedes diesel hybrid achieve some incredible figures?
They’re pretty good. The E300 Bluetec Hybrid features Merc’s 201bhp twin-turbo, 2.1-litre four-pot, with a 15kW electric motor positioned between it and the seven-speed auto ‘box. The motor is powerful enough for electric-only driving, the claimed figures are 68.9mpg and 109g/km CO2, and sales start at the end of 2011.
What about this Bluetec G-class?
It’s hardly a showstopper, but Mercedes has outfitted its ancient 4x4 with its state-of-the-art NOx battling tech. The engine itself is hardly the most powerful (208bhp) but there is 398lb ft produced from 1600 to 2400rpm, and NOx emissions are cut by around 50%.
If diesels aren’t your thing then Mercedes also has the SLS AMG on display, and in full 2010 F1 safety car-spec. The 6.2-litre V8 is unchanged, but there is a ‘aerodynamically optimised light bar incorporating LED technology’ complete with TV camera. If Merc can’t lock out the front row with Messrs Schumacher, Button and Hamilton, then at least they’ll be one three-pointed star leading the field on a few occasions.
Does the Mercedes diesel hybrid achieve some incredible figures?
They’re pretty good. The E300 Bluetec Hybrid features Merc’s 201bhp twin-turbo, 2.1-litre four-pot, with a 15kW electric motor positioned between it and the seven-speed auto ‘box. The motor is powerful enough for electric-only driving, the claimed figures are 68.9mpg and 109g/km CO2, and sales start at the end of 2011.
What about this Bluetec G-class?
It’s hardly a showstopper, but Mercedes has outfitted its ancient 4x4 with its state-of-the-art NOx battling tech. The engine itself is hardly the most powerful (208bhp) but there is 398lb ft produced from 1600 to 2400rpm, and NOx emissions are cut by around 50%.
If diesels aren’t your thing then Mercedes also has the SLS AMG on display, and in full 2010 F1 safety car-spec. The 6.2-litre V8 is unchanged, but there is a ‘aerodynamically optimised light bar incorporating LED technology’ complete with TV camera. If Merc can’t lock out the front row with Messrs Schumacher, Button and Hamilton, then at least they’ll be one three-pointed star leading the field on a few occasions.
Infiniti's new M and hybrids at Geneva motor show
Infiniti, Nissan’s upmarket wing, can finally have a serious stab at the European luxury car gaems market after launching its Renault-based turbodiesel V6. Its pleasingly idiosyncratic range of cars – ultra modern, finely crafted and mostly fun to drive – have been hamstrung in the showrooms by a range of V6 and V8 petrol engines which have been designed for customers in Los Angeles or Boston, not London or Berlin. Of a diesel, there has been no sign. Until now.
New M Line takes on 5-series and E-class
The Japanese maker also launched its handsome new M Line saloon at Geneva, a swoopy curvy E-class or 5-series rival that boasts excellent space and a stylish cabin. The new 238bhp V6 diesel will naturally be the big seller – although actual Euro volumes, from this budding brand, are still tiny. The big news at Geneva was its hybrid engine.
This is the first hybrid powertrain developed by Nissan – previous US-focused Nissan hybrids have been licensed from Toyota – and there are a number of technical improvements compared with the competitor Lexus GS hybrid. The whole hybrid unit is more compact – not least because it uses one electric engine, not two – and lighter (by 30 kg). Its lithium ion batteries are also more compact than the Lexus’s nickel metal hydride units and, says Infiniti, will last longer. Their compactness means boot space, in the hybrid M, is still generous. Rear leg room is positively capacious, close to class best.
Infinitis are supposed to be sporty cars. Is the M hybrid a slug or a sportster?
As Infinitis are performance biased, the hybrid is more sports saloon than street slacker: 0-60 in 6.0 seconds, and it can do 62mph in electric drive alone. The seven-speed dual clutch semi-auto box removes the torque converter, helping throttle response. Even in electric mode, it drives through the seven-speed ‘box, so you can play with the paddles even when you’re purring on battery power.
The hybrid is clearly aimed at the US, easily Infiniti’s biggest market, but even in diesel-obsessed Europe, bosses expect the hybrid to account for a third of M sales.
New M Line takes on 5-series and E-class
The Japanese maker also launched its handsome new M Line saloon at Geneva, a swoopy curvy E-class or 5-series rival that boasts excellent space and a stylish cabin. The new 238bhp V6 diesel will naturally be the big seller – although actual Euro volumes, from this budding brand, are still tiny. The big news at Geneva was its hybrid engine.
This is the first hybrid powertrain developed by Nissan – previous US-focused Nissan hybrids have been licensed from Toyota – and there are a number of technical improvements compared with the competitor Lexus GS hybrid. The whole hybrid unit is more compact – not least because it uses one electric engine, not two – and lighter (by 30 kg). Its lithium ion batteries are also more compact than the Lexus’s nickel metal hydride units and, says Infiniti, will last longer. Their compactness means boot space, in the hybrid M, is still generous. Rear leg room is positively capacious, close to class best.
Infinitis are supposed to be sporty cars. Is the M hybrid a slug or a sportster?
As Infinitis are performance biased, the hybrid is more sports saloon than street slacker: 0-60 in 6.0 seconds, and it can do 62mph in electric drive alone. The seven-speed dual clutch semi-auto box removes the torque converter, helping throttle response. Even in electric mode, it drives through the seven-speed ‘box, so you can play with the paddles even when you’re purring on battery power.
The hybrid is clearly aimed at the US, easily Infiniti’s biggest market, but even in diesel-obsessed Europe, bosses expect the hybrid to account for a third of M sales.
Bertone Pandion (2010) at Geneva motor show
You can see the Bertone Pandion from almost anywhere within the giant halls at the 2010 Geneva motor show. It might be low and sleek, but the rear-hinged scissor doors run almost the entire length of the car and stand over 3.6 metres high when open. It’s quite a sight.
What is the Bertone Pandion?
Underneath it’s an Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione – complete with a 444bhp 4.7-litre V8 engine – but the body and interior are the work of Italian design house Bertone, which built the car to celebrate Alfa’s 100th birthday.
Not all of you may be sold of the looks of the Pandion (Bertone calls its aggressive yet beautiful) and we’re not sure there are many ways to improve on the 8C. It’s the detailing that stands out though, including those doors; the Pandion moniker comes from Pandion Haliaetus – the scientific name for an Osprey – and designer Mike Robinson and his team drew inspiration from the hawk’s wings to create the incredible doors. That’s not the best part of the Pandion; the most incredible features are the thousands of tiny intertwined blades in the front and rear grilles.
The Osprey’s facial features were also copied to create the Pandion’s angular nose, but while the front of the Bertone concept car is supposed to be evocative, the rear is abrupt. Robinson calls the contrasting design Skin and Flame, a play on Alfa’s badge: the snake in the logo is beautiful, flowing and full of emotion, but the cross is organic, sharp and structural. The tail lights are made from the intertwined blades, but disappear when turned off. Unfortunately there are no production plans.
What is the Bertone Pandion?
Underneath it’s an Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione – complete with a 444bhp 4.7-litre V8 engine – but the body and interior are the work of Italian design house Bertone, which built the car to celebrate Alfa’s 100th birthday.
Not all of you may be sold of the looks of the Pandion (Bertone calls its aggressive yet beautiful) and we’re not sure there are many ways to improve on the 8C. It’s the detailing that stands out though, including those doors; the Pandion moniker comes from Pandion Haliaetus – the scientific name for an Osprey – and designer Mike Robinson and his team drew inspiration from the hawk’s wings to create the incredible doors. That’s not the best part of the Pandion; the most incredible features are the thousands of tiny intertwined blades in the front and rear grilles.
The Osprey’s facial features were also copied to create the Pandion’s angular nose, but while the front of the Bertone concept car is supposed to be evocative, the rear is abrupt. Robinson calls the contrasting design Skin and Flame, a play on Alfa’s badge: the snake in the logo is beautiful, flowing and full of emotion, but the cross is organic, sharp and structural. The tail lights are made from the intertwined blades, but disappear when turned off. Unfortunately there are no production plans.
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