Opel Corsa, 2010

Opel Corsa, 2010

 

The Opel Corsa range has been rejuvenated to provide more power and more driving fun with less fuel consumption. Opel engineers have given the Opel Corsa a complete make-over, introducing an enhanced powertrain line-up that reduces fuel consumption by up to 13 percent, significant chassis improvements and a new steering calibration. In addition to its agile handling and greater ride comfort, drivers will appreciate engines that give more pulling power.

These enhancements are accompanied by the introduction in Germany of several new special editions like the sporty Color Line series. The Color Race, Color Edition and Color Wave variants feature distinctive bodywork finishes and attractive 17-inch alloy wheels. Also, in celebration of 111 years of automotive tradition, Opel will release a captivating 111 Limited Edition in Europe.

The Opel Corsa comes in two distinct body styles, the coupé-like three-door and the family friendly five-door. Inside the cabin, the Opel Corsa continues to offer one of the roomiest and most attractive interiors in its class. True to Opel's philosophy, it also features innovative technologies at an affordable price, including halogen Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL), a heated steering wheel, active front head restraints, Hill Start Assist, a Panorama sunroof or the integrated FlexFix bicycle carrier which is unique to Opel.

The Opel Corsa is a highly popular choice throughout Europe, accounting for some 30 percent of all Opel/Vauxhall sales. In addition to its athletic dynamic styling and great driving fun, it also offers customers top class quality. Germany's DEKRA Defect Report 2010 named the Opel Corsa the overall winner, with the lowest defect rate (2.4 percent) of all the vehicles tested. DEKRA (Deutscher Kraftfahrzeug-Überwachungs-Verein) is a full-service provider for safe and efficient mobility and Europe's leading technical expert organization.

Reinvigorated to deliver more driving satisfaction and lower fuel costs, the Opel Corsa range ticks all the right boxes for customers seeking a peppy package at an affordable price.

More power with improved fuel economy
The powertrain line-up consists of a wide offer of gasoline engine from the 1-liter 3 cylinder (48 kW/65 hp ) entry level version to the turbo charged 1.6-liter on the Opel Corsa OPC (141 kW/192 hp). On the diesel side, different versions of the 1.3 and 1.7 CDTI motors offer outputs ranging from 55 kW/75 hp to 96 kW/130 hp all with fuel consumption under 5 liters per 100 kilometers. The Opel Corsa ecoFLEX 1.3 l CDTI offers exceptionally low CO2 emissions of just 98 g/km for the 3-door variant, 99 g/km for the 5-door.

Opel Astra, 2010

Opel Astra, 2010

 

 

 With its sporty, good looks, comfortable driving experience, innovative technology and a full fuel efficient powertrain line-up, the new Opel Astra, which debuted in Frankfurt at the 2009 IAA as a five-door hatchback, is set to energize Europe's compact car segment.

Grounded in the tradition initiated in 1936 with the first Opel Kadett, the Opel Astra has consistently made the top-three list of Europe's best-selling compacts for decades - a segment which accounts for 27 percent of the total car market. Opel Astra sales make up a third of all Opel/Vauxhall purchases, for an average volume of nearly 500,000 units per year.

The new Opel Astra brings many comfort and safety features to the compact class from the upper segment - most were introduced by the Opel Insignia to the midsize class. Exceptional technologies like an all-new mechatronic chassis, the most advanced lighting system, a front camera that recognizes traffic signs and seats with the best ergonomics will be available.

Opel's new design language reinterpreted for the compact class
The new Opel Astra brings into the compact class its own interpretation of the brand's award-winning design language of combining "sculptural artistry with German precision" first seen in the Insignia. Its strong coupé-like silhouette and elegant details give the car a fresh sporty look. Elegant proportions provide a strong, cab-forward silhouette, with a steeply-raked windshield and falling rear roofline, adding visual excitement to the traditional hatchback format.

The flank of the Opel Astra receives a dynamic inverted blade that visually connects to the powerful movement of the rear window and the C-pillar. In the back end, double wing-shapes in each of the rear lights make it immediately recognizable.

The interior echoes the flowing forms of the bodywork: sweeping lines, curvaceous shapes and the quality of the execution are all part of Opel's design language. A signature design cue is the wraparound wing shape of the instrument panel that arcs into the top of the door moldings. The effect is a warm embrace of the occupants, providing a welcoming ambience that is enhanced at night by a red diffused light that illuminates the base of the center stack and the front door panels.

New mechatronic chassis system with Watt's link in rear axle
Driving dynamics and stability are improved by a wheelbase that is 71 mm longer, for a total of 2685 mm. The new Opel Astra has a 1544 mm wide front and 1588 mm wide rear and the tracks are increased by 56 mm and 70 mm respectively. This gives the car a wider footprint, contributing to more stable handling and an inherently better road-holding capability. The core body structure stiffness is improved by 43 percent in torsion and 10 percent in bending to provide a firm base for optimizing the new Opel Astra's handling and ride capabilities. Increased stiffness also benefits comfort, as it reduces noise and vibrations inside the cabin.

The Opel Astra's chassis has been developed as a mechatronic system that fully integrates mechanical functions and electronic controls. The new Opel Astra retains the dynamic, fun-to-drive character of the previous model, with significant improvements in steering response and ride comfort.

Nissan Cube, 2010

Nissan Cube, 2010

 

 

The Characterised by its rounded-off squared dimensions, it's easy to see how Nissan Cube got its name. Boasting bags of character, Cube also sports an asymmetric rear design, with a wrap-around window at the rear on the passenger side, and a pillar on the driver's side, giving a distinctive, striking design signature which is carried over from the previous generation of Nissan Cube.
More than just unique geometry, however, the new Nissan Cube is also conceived as a totally different take on an automobile - a car that doesn't want to be defined as a car.

The Bulldog in Sunglasses
The all-new Nissan Cube builds on the existing DNA characterised by its non-traditional design, with an improved stance and an added sense of dynamic movement. With Cube's long wheelbase relative to its overall length (a 2530mm wheelbase against a 3980mm overall length) and wide track, the wheels, in effect, are pushed out to each corner - providing exceptional space utilisation and a confident-looking stance that is described as a "bulldog in sunglasses."
With its stance, the incognito canine look is aided by the wide headlights and grille treatment, the small but substantial body proportions and the short tail section. In the rear, the bar-type taillights reinforce the wide, anchored feel. The Cube's creators also sought to maintain a sense of pure design, reducing the number of character lines to give simplicity and freshness to the styling.

The other unique aspect of the Cube's exterior is the greenhouse. The A-pillars are positioned far outward and relatively upright, giving a wider range of forward visibility. The front door windows utilize a photo frame design patterned after a personal photo frame, while the asymmetrical wraparound side/rear window creates enhanced rear diagonal visibility for lane changes and reverse parking.
Unlike typical top-hinged or clamshell-style utility rear doors, Nissan Cube features an easy-access refrigerator-style opening, which makes it possible to open or close it even if parked tight against other cars in parallel parking spaces or when backed in against a wall or other obstacle.
The Nissan Cube is available in several eye-catching colours, with evocative names like Witty Military, White Pearl, Sea Turquoise and Bitter Chocolate.
Customers will be able to personalise their Cube, with designs available for the glass roof and also body stickers.

The Casual Loung Interior
The centrepiece of the new Cube's universal appeal is its surprisingly roomy interior that offers room for five in a lounge-like comfort. It creates a highly changeable space - for interacting with friends.
Cube's clever, inspired and surprisingly open occupant space was conceived with a Jacuzzi Curve layout and floating meter pod driver's area. It combines casual lounge-style passenger seating with a relaxed driving experience. The interactive interior is anchored by its curve-themed architecture, such as the subtle wavy shaping of the instrument panel, door panels, seat shapes, and the iconic Water Drop that can be seen in the cupholders and the climate control design. They are inspired by nature and the calming way that ripples move outward from a drop in water.
The comfortable Nissan Cube seating includes individual driver's and passenger seats,  with a lounge sofa style sliding rear bench seat.
The sliding rear seat can be adjusted to three positions and is positioned higher than the front seats, theatre style, enhancing rear passenger comfort and visibility.

The Interior, Stress-Free Driving, Room For Personalization
Cube's stress-free driving experience is the result of a number of factors: a tall seating position made possible by the tall body height, an extremely short hood invisible length (the area of the hood panel that the driver is unable to see) and the good rear visibility for parking and reversing.
The Nissan Cube interior also benefits from its large sunroof, giving a light and airy atmosphere. As well as the traditional blind to prevent heat build up on sunny days, there is a shoji shade, inspired by traditional Japanese shades made of rice paper which can be drawn across the sunroof, allowing light to enter but minimising heat build up!
Other interior features include the floating pod instrument panel with asymmetrical light blue and white gauges, which are designed to make it easier to distinguish between the speedometer and the tachometer. The gauge needles sweep when the engine is started to add a sense of flair, while the gradation effect gives a natural ambience similar to the glow of the white moon and the blue earth.
Convenient storage spaces and cup/bottle holders are abundant throughout the Nissan Cube interior. There are also detachable multi-hooks for holding bags or hats, which can be moved from place to place - including the instrument panel and rear doors.
The shelf expression concept features two shelves located on top centre and passenger side of the instrument panel. The shelves can be personalized with accessory wood-like trim or shag carpeting. Cube's Magic Rubber Bands, another clever Cube accessory item, are colourful rubber straps (red, yellow, orange or silver) that slip into cutouts on the door armrests to secure items such as maps, nametags, photos, towels or small stuffed animals.

Nissan Altima Sedan, 2010

Nissan Altima Sedan, 2010

 

The popular Nissan Altima, the 2010 model year with fresh exterior styling, refined interior treatments and a host of technology enhancements to its navigation and entertainment systems. Available in three distinct models - Nissan Altima Sedan, Altima Coupe and Altima Hybrid.

As fourth generation, with nearly 3.2 million units sold worldwide, Nissan Altima provides a unique combination of exhilarating driving pleasure, distinctive and sporty design and exceptional quality and value in the mid-size sedan and coupe classes.
The Nissan Altima; 175-horsepower 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder and 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine-equipped 4-door Nissan Altima Sedan and sporty 2-door Nissan Altima Coupe versions.

The Nissan Altima Hybrid powertrain mates a specialized version of Nissan's QR25 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and standard electronically controlled CVT with an advanced electric drive motor/generator. Nissan Altima Hybrid is estimated to have a hybrid system net power rating of 198 horsepower (148 kW) while maintaining low tailpipe emissions, earning Nissan Altima Hybrid an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) rating. EPA fuel economy is estimated at 35 mpg City and 33 mpg Highway. Combined with Nissan Altima's standard 20-gallon fuel tank, the Nissan Altima Hybrid has a projected driving range of over 600 miles between fill-ups.

The many changes for Altima are a restyled hood, grille and front bumper, new wheel designs, standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) on all models, revised interior fabric and finishers, new exterior colors and revised option package content. In addition, the previous Nissan Altima 3.5 SE designation has been renamed the 3.5 SR.

Nissan 370Z Roadster, 2010

Nissan 370Z Roadster, 2010

 

 

 

The Truly Authentic Roadster
The Nissan 370Z Roadster's most obvious departure from the 370Z Coupe is its convertible top. The soft-top roof was designed with an emphasis on three key areas: to provide a sleek silhouette matching the new Z®'s stunning styling with the top up or down, to offer easy single-action open-close operation, and to provide an enjoyable top-down experience with reduced wind turbulence and all-climate driver/passenger comfort.

With convertible top in the closed position, the design provides a sophisticated sloped-back appearance, the perfect balance between the soft top and the Z® body design. The shortened windshield and aerodynamically rounded rear deck enhance the Z®'s kinetic and dynamic character lines. When in the down position, the convertible top is concealed beneath a full body-color hard tonneau cover, which extends forward to help create the Z® Roadster's classic "double cockpit" style interior.

The standard black cloth convertible top features a fabric inner liner, which provides a quality appearance and helps reduce noise intrusion into the cabin, along with an enlarged (versus the previous generation Z® Roadster) glass rear window with an integrated electric rear window defroster. The top operation takes approximately 20 seconds start-to-finish and is controlled by either a center console-mounted switch or by a button located on the doors. The automatic latch system secures the top to - or releases it from - the windshield header without driver intervention. The shape and position of the glass wind deflector, located between the fixed headrest bars, has been optimized to reduce turbulence into the cabin.

Like the new 370Z Coupe, the Z® Roadster's new exterior is more aggressive in appearance and lighter and tighter in structure than the previous generation. The wheelbase is nearly four inches shorter (100.4 inches versus 104.3 inches) and overall length is reduced by 2.6 inches (167.2 inches versus 169.8 inches). The new Z® Roadster features an aluminum hood, door panels and trunk for reduced weight. At the same time, the body structure was extensively revised, improving rigidity and stability. The Nissan 370Z Roadster includes additional structural reinforcement (over the 370Z Coupe), including in the A-pillars and side sills.
The Z® Roadster's exterior design incorporates the look and feel of the new Z® Coupe, including its signature long nose/short cockpit proportions, vertical door handles and distinctive new headlight/taillight treatment, which features a fierce "boomerang" shape. High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are standard.

Inside the stunning exterior, true to its sports car heritage, the Z® Roadster's interior is completely driver-centric, with its three-layer design grouping items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place - so drivers feel completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive, top up or down.

The Z® Roadster features high back black woven "Carbon" cloth seats with 8-way manual driver's/4-way manual passenger's seat adjustments. Touring models include unique leather-appointed "net" seats with 4-way power/4-way manual operation on the driver's seat (4-way power on the passenger's seat). These second-generation net seats are exclusive to the Z® Roadster and have integrated heating and cooling functions - ideal for open air driving no matter what the outside temperature. Adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints are also standard.
The Z® Roadster's 2-seat layout includes a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger's seat. The instrument panel retains the traditional Z® 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer now include an "initial sweep" function, coming alive when the car is first started.

The sporty steering wheel is a new "oval" 3-spoke design, which offers baseball-style stitching, improved thumb grips and palm rest areas for improved feel on long drives. The surface of the leather-wrapped wheel is "shaved" to provide a more kidney-like shape to better fit in the hand. The manual transmission shifter is specially padded to improve the accuracy of diagonal shifts and to feel softer in the hand for forward and backward motions.
Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature and a center console box with a non-intrusive cover design.
Other features include automatic climate control, two 12-volt power outlets, three cupholders (two in door panels, one in center console) and an AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system with illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400, 2010

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400, 2010

 

 

 The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 is the fastest and most extreme version of Mitsubishi's motorsport derived machine. With 403bhp and 387lb.ft of torque on offer from its advanced, lightweight aluminium 2.0-litre turbocharged MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) petrol engine the FQ-400 is able to reach 62mph from standstill in an estimated 3.8 seconds before reaching an electronically limited 155mph - where permitted.

Traction and handling
Ensuring all the FQ-400's power is put to good use is Mitsubishi's sophisticated Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) four-wheel-drive system which appropriates power to the wheels that can best use it, giving the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 quite sensational cross-country performance.

The S-AWC system combines a number of electronic systems that both enhance the FQ-400's performance and safety, with Active Stability Control and Active Centre Differential, Active Yaw Control and Sport ABS giving the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 incredible cornering ability, traction and grip. Depending on the conditions the driver can select the most suitable set-up for the S-AWC system, three choices - Tarmac, Gravel and Snow - being offered via the wheel-mounted button and displayed in the central instrument binnacle.

Cornering stability
Increasing the FQ-400's cornering ability even further over its FQ relatives is a wider track and lowered suspension featuring Eibach springs and Bilstein Shock Absorbers. Lightweight 18-inch, nine spoke alloy wheels fitted with Toyo Proxes R1R tyres enhance the FQ-400's grip, giving it sharper cornering response on the road and more incisive steering. The enhanced agility and performance is backed by a revised braking system which uses aerospace grade aluminium alloys and floating sealed discs grabbed by high performance pads.

Extreme Power
To achieve the incredible 403bhp from just 2.0-litres Mitsubishi has had to significantly revise the FQ-400's advanced powerplant. Motorsport specification high-flow fuel injectors are fitted to the aluminium cylinder head and a new hybrid turbocharger is also fitted. The higher specification turbocharger features low-friction bearings, a high temperature turbine and strengthened thrust bearing to increase response and reduce turbo lag. Feeding the turbocharger cooled air, improving its performance and efficiency, is an enhanced intercooler, while the exhaust's gasses flow from the engine via a 3-inch diameter high flow stainless steel piping and catalytic convertor before exiting through a centrally positioned exhaust.

Mitsubishi has remapped the Engine Control Unit (ECU) extensively with over 500 hours of development time to allow its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine to not just produce its exceptional output but to do so with excellent driveability. The FQ-400's acceleration is sensational, it pulling hard through the gears regardless of engine revs. With peak torque of 387lb.ft on offer from just 3,500rpm, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 is just as able to trickle through town traffic as it is taking a rally special stage.

Mini Beachcomber Concept, 2010

Mini Beachcomber Concept, 2010

 

 

 MINI Beachcomber Concept crosses borders, enters new dimensions of driving pleasure, and wins over additional target groups by expanding the model range and the creativity of MINI design. MINI demonstrates its potential for additional product lineup growth and further enhanced driving pleasure with the MINI Beachcomber Concept.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept is a four-seater concept car designed for maximum driving pleasure, incorporating key features of the new MINI and combining them with the vision of a radically open body concept.

The new all-wheel drive system, ALL4, and a flexible interior make the MINI Beachcomber Concept ideal for a spontaneous and active experience. It is designed without doors or a conventional roof, and all other body elements that could limit the intensity of the occupants' encounter with their surrounding world. This allows the driver and up to three passengers to connect with their surroundings - whether cruising through town, enjoying rough tracks in the mountains, or breezing along the beach. The vehicle's space concept, partnered with a modern drivetrain technology, ensures a highly emotional driving experience.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept combines all-wheel drive, cutting-edge suspension technology, and an elevated seating position. Generous spring travel and extra-large light-alloy wheels raise the entire car to a higher level. Access to the front and rear seats is convenient thanks to the open doorways. The entry cutouts extend all the way down to the seat bottoms, allowing the driver and all passengers to get in and out in one smooth and flowing process.

The driver and passengers will enjoy everyday motoring conditions - simply because the MINI Beachcomber Concept retains its unmistakable character in all conditions. In the event of bad weather, drivers can either use the soft roof or the lightweight door and roof elements, all of which fit easily and can be installed within a few minutes.

MINI enters new terrain - with a fourth model and a complete range of innovative ideas for future.
Based on the MINI crossover vehicle that will be launched later this year in markets outside of North America, the MINI Beachcomber Concept is a symbol of the brand values packaged in a new, radical style.

Within the first decade of the MINI brand's re-launch, a fourth MINI model is set to enter the market. As a crossover in the typical style of the brand, the new model offers a new interpretation of the unique MINI design. With the functional convenience of four doors, four full-size seats, a flexible interior, a newly developed all-wheel-drive system and a high standard of driving pleasure, a MINI vehicle can now be enjoyed for the first time beyond the beaten path.

MINI designers were inspired by the new MINI crossover production model, which they enhanced beyond the realms of urban mobility to create the MINI Beachcomber Concept. In creating this concept, they utilized the technical qualities of the production crossover model, and made adaptations to offer the ultimate expression of freedom. The result is a new open concept driving experience for all your senses, plus a greater degree of versatility than ever experienced before in a MINI.

The potential uses for the MINI Beachcomber Concept are defined by the imagination of its driver. Clearly, the most natural surroundings for this vehicle are beaches, where the MINI Beachcomber Concept, through its enhanced traction and radically open design, offers the freedom of movement expressed through its very name.

In its robust and versatile character, the MINI Beachcomber Concept follows in the footsteps of the Mini Moke, which in the 1960s, quickly became the epitome of adventurous motoring for leisure time and sports activities in sunny coastal regions.

The Unique, typical of MINI, and with a great role model from way back when.
The MINI Beachcomber Concept is the vision of a car that leaves behind conventional standards and creates momentum for innovative mobility of the future.

Individual character, a clear focus on maximum driving pleasure, and the courage to create new concepts have always set the foundation for new models in the MINI range; and the traits of this open-air, all-wheel-drive concept clearly define it from the beginning as a MINI.

The authentic style and character of the MINI Beachcomber Concept is rooted in the brand's history. MINI once offered an extreme, thrill-of-driving experience in the open air by conscious reduction to the very minimum: In 1964, just five years after the market launch of the classic Mini, Alec Issigonis, the world-famous engineer and creator of the first model, developed an all-open version of this revolutionary compact car.

The body of the Mini Moke, as it was called, was made up of little more than a floorpan, wide sills at the side, an engine compartment lid and a windshield. A folding roof served to protect the driver and passengers from precipitation.

With its robust structure and the drivetrain technology carried over from the Mini, this four-seater fun car became a great success, particularly in the sunny regions of the U.S. and Australia. Production of the Mini Moke continued in Great Britain until 1968 with a production volume of approximately 14,500 units. In the following years, production was continued in Australia and Portugal.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept now takes the basic principles of the Mini Moke into the 21st century. The rustic appearance of the car, and its concept of consciously reducing the body components and interior to a minimum clearly follow the tradition of the radically open Mini Moke of the 1960s. This is further accentuated by design cues that are strongly inspired by the original Mini Moke, and is enhanced by various striking details such as the characteristic radiator grille.

The new MINI Beachcomber meets modern demands in terms of space and comfort, as well as efficiency and safety, while retaining its clear focus on driving pleasure and enjoying the surroundings without barriers.

Even ALL4 all-wheel drive can be seen in a role model from the past. A prototype Mini Moke developed by Alec Issigonis in 1963 had two engines and an early ALL4 system. On this test car, appropriately referred to as the "Twini," the front and rear wheels were each driven by a four-cylinder from the Mini range of engines.

Versatile, modern, and safe at all times.
Modern from A-Z, the MINI Beachcomber Concept offers a wide range of technology and features for driving pleasure in the 21st century. The premium manufacturer touches in the areas of design, drivetrain, safety and production technology bring together the undiluted character of a concept car with a wide range of possibilities in the real world.

Measuring approximately four meters in length, and with its versatile interior, the MINI Beachcomber Concept offers all the flexibility and spaciousness required for an active lifestyle. Intentionally reduced to a minimum, the body of the car ensures an intense feeling of the sun shining in and the wind rushing by, while full maintenance of all MINI safety standards guarantees maximum occupant safety.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept vehicle's stable body structure incorporates clearly defined load paths and deformation units, which absorb impact energy in the event of a collision. The vehicle's rollover safety also meets the highest demands made of an open car and it is able to withstand even extreme situations. The frame on the passenger cell is formed by substantially reinforced A-pillars, and the D-pillar bar is complete with an integrated lateral support element at the rear of the car. It is made of high-strength steel for maximum stiffness. This additional safety component is finished in body color, and reinforces the commitment to safety.

The concept of intelligent lightweight technology serves to lower the car's center of gravity, offering superior agility at all times. The lateral support element further enhances the vehicle's agility and also gives the vehicle its unique appearance. This lateral support boasts recesses shaped to form the "MINI" model designation and is clearly visible from outside.

Extreme variability for all kinds of activities, weather and road conditions.
Individual rear seats adjust forward and back to offer the passengers a supreme standard of grand touring comfort tailored to their individual requirements. The rear seat backrests fold down completely to allow appropriate adjustment of interior space for all needs. In practice, this means that the driver and passengers are able to conveniently stow even bulky sports equipment such as mountain bikes or wakeboards securely held in position by special fastening systems.

When open, the MINI Beachcomber Concept is also able to carry extra-long objects, such as surfboards, with ease. Fastened firmly to the lateral support, surfboards fit conveniently into the car, sticking out at the top on the way to the beach.

The driver and passengers enjoy convenient access to the luggage compartment though the rear panel split vertically down the middle into two sections. Whenever necessary, the right-hand side may remain fully open for bulky objects extending out of the car at the rear. The left rear element, in turn, is a window-less door hinged at the side and extends up to the seat backrests. The additional storage case fitted on to the door is reminiscent in its round shape of a fully enclosed spare wheel holder of the type often seen on a conventional off-roader. However, since the MINI Beachcomber Concept is equipped with runflat tires and therefore does not require a spare wheel, the lockable case may be used to take along additional luggage, keeping beach mats, towels, surf shoes or similar odds and ends within easy reach at all times.

Flexible protection from wind and weather: soft roof or hardtop inserts.
The MINI Beachcomber Concept is built for the sunny side of life and is simply perfect for spontaneous action. Through its optimum flexibility, the car is able to meet many different requirements, naturally coping with any sudden change in outdoor conditions.

Morgan Aero SuperSports, 2009

Morgan Aero SuperSports, 2009

 

 

Designed and engineered in house, the Morgan Aero SuperSports is a lightweight aluminium sports car with a luxurious specification. The interior features a comfortable combination of polished hardwoods, hand stitched leather and electronic technology to create a driving environment that is efficient, ergonomic and sumptuous. In spite of all this opulence the overall weight of the car is still minimal so the car is responsive to driver inputs and economical to run. The unique way Morgan can achieve this is down to our use of aircraft style superformed aluminium outer panels and the skills of our craftsmen to hand finish the assembly of each car. This technology debuted in the 100 AeroMax coupes built by the factory in 2008 and 2009.

Such was demand for this model, that Morgan have taken the decision to produce the Morgan Aero SuperSports. A limited edition, the car makes use of two aluminium detachable roof panels. These can either turn the car effectively in to a coupe or when detached bring fresh air and the aromas of the seasons to the driving experience without undue wind disturbance to spoil the journey. The panels can be stored conveniently in the boot.

The car of course benefits from the lightweight aluminium Aero chassis which is adhesively bonded for class leading rigidity. Exceeding global crash protection standards, this is also the platform used by the Morgan Aero Eight GT3 currently competing successfully in the 2009 International FIA GT3 Championship. This chassis combined with the aluminium 4.8 litre BMW V8 engine and a choice of 6 speed automatic or manual gearboxes offers an unrivalled driving experience. No other automatic car offers such dynamic power transmission.

Drawn by Matthew Humphries, and engineered for production by the experienced "Morgan Design" team, the new Morgan Aero Super Sports is due to enter production in early 2010. A deposit of £25,000 is required to ensure the supply of one of these exciting new models. It is anticipated to cost around £127,000 including VAT.

MG TF, 2010

MG TF, 2010

 

 

In the summer of 2009, two new MGs were being launched to join the highly successful MG TF LE500; the affordable MG TF 135 and a unique new MG that is being produced to mark the 85th Anniversary of the brand, the MG TF 85th Anniversary.

New Entry Level MG TF 135
The greatly anticipated MG TF 135 will be launched shortly and is sure to appeal to motorists who want sports car fun at a highly competitive price. Good levels of trim and equipment including a Clarion ICE system, combine with a price tag that will broaden its appeal and bring it within the budget of many more people. 

 

Unique Anniversary Car
A unique MG TF is being launched to mark the 85th Anniversary of the MG brand. The MGTF 85th Anniversary will be a great looking car with fantastic handling.

Available in three special colours overlaid with striking graphics and a new design of alloy wheel, from the outside the car looks sensational. The cabin is stunning too as the specialist graphics continue with monogrammed sill finishers and gear knob which complement new stylish Aubergine leather trim and a high quality ICE system.

Apart from the stunning look, the new TF 85th Anniversary model also benefits from a ride and handling package that's tuned to make this car unique to drive. Bilstein suspension, Eibach anti roll system, lower ride height, an all new anti torsion pack and a modified wheel set up on Rimstock 'Twisted Pepper' style wheels give the 85th Anniversary edition a grown up feel and very precise handling at high speeds.
This car will be launched at £15,664 on the road which, again, after the Government's scrappage scheme deduction will make the TF 85th a competitive £13,664.

The New MG Family
With the fully loaded and highly specified MG TF LE500, the extremely affordable MG TF 135 and the tightly handling MG 85th Anniversary, MG now offers a family of cars that give existing owners looking for something new, as well as prospective customers who just want to enjoy British mid engined, top down sports car driving, some real choices.

Mercury Milan, 2010

Mercury Milan, 2010

 

The Mercury Milan builds on a strong foundation of quality and reliability, adding to the mix for the 2010 model year an all-new hybrid model, more fuel-efficient gasoline powertrain options, class-exclusive technologies and a more refined, sophisticated design.
The changes to the exterior design were focused on the grille, fenders, hood, and front and rear fascias. The chin was pulled forward and the fascia was pulled down to give the 2010 Mercury Milan a wider, sportier look. Those changes as well as substantial underbody work made for a cleaner, more aerodynamic car.

With all models, the interior design team created a more contemporary, technical look with metallic new finishes on the instrument panel that carry through on the center console, doors and steering wheel. The all new instrument panel is finished with a soft upper and lower skin and has much less hard plastic than Japanese competitors. A redesigned leather wrapped steering wheel with form fitting palm swells, and new shifter, and wrapped and padded armrests have been added, increasing the Milan's sportiness and comfort at all key driver touch points.

The seats received a makeover, as well. The seat contour has been revised, with more side support and overall a more comfortable seat with smoother bolsters and more-textural inserts. The seats also feature contrasting stitching and leather inserts to give the Mercury Milan even more attitude, befitting this mid-size sedan.
The gauge cluster has been designed with day time backlighting, a black lens, and 3-D elements to create a high tech jewel-like appearance, similar to a fine watch. Drivers will be greeted by a new "welcome" sequence that makes the Mercury Milan seem as if it's coming to life.

Gauge needles sweep back and forth as the lighting and new chimes come on. The ambient lighting system offers the option of illuminating the front and rear footwells and front cup holders.

The two-tone look on the interior continues as a Mercury Milan signature, with satin-aluminum accents and a wood finish around the center stack. The Milan features Dark Charcoal Black, Medium Light Stone and Camel as interior choices through the Premier Series, which includes embossed leather.
An improved seat design with a new perforation pattern has been added as well. The seat contour itself was revised, with more side support to help create a softer seat overall.

All-new hybrid model
For the 2010 model year, the Mercury Milan adds an all-new hybrid model. The Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid join the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids, doubling both the size and volume of Ford's hybrid lineup.
The Ford Hybrid team has developed a powertrain system that combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience for the customer in terms of driving performance and fuel economy.

Additionally, the propulsion system for the Mercury Milan Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid transitions between gas and electric power and back more efficiently and seamlessly.
The overall system upgrade allows the Mercury Milan Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode. The hybrid vehicles can operate up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately twice as fast as some competitors. Plus, the city driving range on a single tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles.

Mercedes B-Class F-Cell, 2010

Mercedes B-Class F-Cell, 2010

 

 

 Mercedes-Benz is launching its first series-produced fuel cell car on the road: the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell. The environmentally friendly electric car has better a performance similar to than a 2,0-litre petrol car and is fully suited for everyday driving. The zero-emission drive system consumes the equivalent of 3.3 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle). Production of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell will commence in late 2009 with a small lot. The first of around 200 vehicles will be delivered to customers in Europe and the USA at the beginning of 2010.

The new fuel cell vehicle offers everything that people expect from a Mercedes-Benz: High comfort and safety as well as no reduction in interior space and boot capacity. Customers will not have to sacrifice any driving pleasure either, because the electric motor has a peak performance of 100 kW/136 hp and a maximum torque of 290 Nm, which is available from the first rotation. It ensures that the Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell, whose impressive dynamic handling properties are in some cases far better than those of a two-litre petrol car, gets off to an excellent start. Despite these qualities, the zero-emission fuel cell drive consumes the equivalent of only 3.3 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC). Thanks to its great range of about 400 kilometres and short refuelling times of around three minutes, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell ensures local zero-emission mobility even for long stretches.

The vehicle's technological heart is the new generation of the compact, high-performance fuel cell system, in which gaseous hydrogen reacts with atmospheric oxygen at 700 bar to generate a current for the electric motor. The fuel cell system of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell has a very good cold-start capability even at temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius. The drive system was completely newly developed versus the F-Cell A-Class presented in 2004, with Mercedes-Benz engineers achieving considerable improvements in output, torque, operating range, reliability, starting characteristics and comfort. The Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell now offers driving pleasure and day-to-day suitability at Mercedes level - without local emissions.

As in hybrids with combustion engines, the fuel-cell car uses a lithium-ion battery with an output of 35 kW and a capacity of 1.4 kWh to boost power and recover braking energy. Lithium-ion technology offers several advantages over conventional batteries, including compact dimensions, high performance, great recharge efficiency and a long service life.

Mazda 3, 2010

Mazda 3, 2010

 

 

 

The Exterior design - expressive and emotional styling
A distinctive new front fascia is formed by the 5-point grille and openings at the front corners. These design cues combine with the sculpted shape of the hood and the bold, expressive lines that connect the hood to the front pillars. All the lines seem to flow into the center just below the 5-point grille, which creates a stronger expression of power and dynamism. From the side, the front fender line smoothly morphs into the beltline, clearly identifying the vehicle as a Mazda and communicating dynamism. The line of the side sill curves up and seems to connect with the rear spoiler to emphasize the vehicle's compact size and express its agility. In order to make the surface more expressive, Mazda designers slightly elaborated the depth of the hood edge, front fenders and the three-dimensional shape of the protruding body sides, carefully crafting curves that subtly reflect changes in natural light.

The rear view boasts a sporty design with wide stance. The strongest features are the protruding shoulders and emphasized center-focus design. This concept was carried over from the first generation Mazda 3 and made bolder to represent expressiveness. All the lines of the rear view are designed to concentrate on the brand symbol in the center. The impressive C-pillar design was also inherited from the first-generation Mazda 3 and made more prominent. This was made possible by Mazda's expertise in stamping technology.

The Interior design : sophisticated, sporty, and high quality
The inside of Mazda 3 is a sporty yet highly refined cabin. The dashboard sweeps out from the center toward both sides with dynamic flair as though it is flexing powerful muscles. The large center display and controls are laid out around the driver to deliver just the right feeling of snugness. The angle of the center panel was adjusted after careful analysis of the driver's hand movement, producing a more stylish and dynamic design. A soft, wood grained surface with minimized parting lines on the top of the dashboard enhances the interior quality. The new interactive lighting control enhances the driver's connection with the vehicle.

The Powertrains for all driving experiences
The powertrains combine Mazda's typical Zoom-Zoom driving experience with excellent environmental performance to provide exhilarating driving. They transmit just the right amount of G force that perfectly matches the vehicle's actual acceleration. This provides the driver with a more refined experience of oneness with the car. The new engine line up has been tailored for European customers and now includes the newly developed MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, carried over from the all-new Mazda 6, in addition to the MZR-1.6-litre and 2.0-litre gasoline engines and the MZ-CD 1.6-litre turbo diesel. It is a high-performance clean diesel engine with top class output, fuel economy and quietness. The MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine will be offered in two variants: a high power version with a maximum torque of 400 Nm/1,800-3,000 rpm and a maximum output of 136 kW (185 PS)/3500 rpm, and a standard power version with a maximum torque of 360 Nm/1,800-2,600 rpm and a maximum output of 110 kW (150 PS)/3500 rpm. Both versions have outstanding clean emissions performance, comply with the Euro Stage 5 regulations and feature a Mazda developed unique Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) technology for more efficient regeneration. Fuel economy is also greatly improved by 7 to 10 percent compared to the MZR-CD 2.0-litre engine equipped in the existing model, attaining 5.4 l/100 km for the standard power version and 5.6 l/100 km for the high power version.