Sunday, March 9, 2014
Saab 9 4X 2012
- Saab 9-4X, 2012
The new Saab 9-4X brings unique design and engineering values to the growing mid-size crossover segment. With distinctive Scandinavian and aircraft-inspired looks, it also offers car-like handling and ride characteristics that challenge class benchmarks.
Making its world premiere at the 2010 Los Angles Auto Show, the 9-4X expands Saabs product portfolio to three car lines and will provide a fresh, alternative choice for independently-minded crossover buyers. It is an important next-step in the Swedish brands renaissance as an independent premium car manufacturer.
Muscular and sporty to drive, the Saab 9-4X is aligned in looks and size between the 9-3X all-rounder and new 9-5 sedan. Outside and inside, it communicates its Saab identity with clean, uncluttered design and signature motifs, such as its wraparound-effect windshield, ice block lighting theme, driver-focused cockpit and flexible cargo handling.
In true Saab tradition, the 9-4X delivers on its sporty persona. It is configured around a unique, purpose-designed crossover body structure, which has been key to delivering its exceptional handling and ride properties. Car-like driving dynamics are supported by Saabs advanced all-wheel-drive system, Saab XWD, and DriveSense adaptive chassis control.
Under the hood, nestles a choice of compact and efficient V6 engines, naturally-aspirated or turbocharged. The 265 hp, 3.0-liter motor for the entry-level model features direct fuel injection and variable valve timing; while the 300 hp, 2.8-liter exchanges direct injection for twin-scroll turbocharging and is exclusive to top-of-line Aero variants. Both engines are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions under adaptive, electronic control.
The Saab 9-4X goes on sale in North America in May 2011, with sales in Europe and other global markets due to begin from August. Prices will be announced shortly before sales commence.
Body sculpted by Saab
The Saab 9-4X cuts a broad and powerful stance, with clean, uncluttered lines that echo Saabs Scandinavian design ethos. Its distinctive face, in common with the new 9-5 sedan, draws inspiration from the award-winning Aero X concept car, with a deep, three-port grille and ice-block-effect lighting themes.
Disguised windshield and door pillars create Saabs signature wraparound-effect, the single glasshouse graphic emphasizing the brands traditional cockpit look. Other exterior Saab identifiers include the shaping of the headlamps, a hockey stick waistline and strong C-pillars complemented by a wraparound-effect rear screen.
The roofline is visually lowered and extended by a rear spoiler integrated in to the tailgate. At the rear, the lighting carries forward a signature introduced by the new 9-5 sedan. An ice-block bar lit by LEDs extends across the lower tailgate and wraps around the light units. Twin rhomboid-shaped exhaust tailpipes are also neatly integrated into the lower bumper molding.
Overall, the Saab 9-4Xs bodywork is noticeably free from unnecessary decoration or trim. A dark protective appliqué is applied to the lower body, but there are no wheel-arch claddings or protective body panels.
Entry-level variants are fitted with 18-inch, six-spoke alloy wheels and Aero models are distinguished by 20-inch, nine-spoke turbine alloy wheels, as well as a black mesh front grille.
Cockpit-inspired cabin
The spacious cabin provides comfortable accommodation for up to five adults and is defined by a signature Saab, driver-focused cockpit layout. The center console, center stack and main instrument display are presented within a single form that sweeps up around the driver. For the Saab 9-4X, this is finished with wood or, for Aero interiors, a carbon fiber-effect trim.
Other subtle erences to Saabs aviation heritage include a selectable, aircraft attitude-style speed read-out, green illumination for the needles of the three main dials and traditional Saab joystick adjusters for the mesh-style air vents. The ignition - a start/stop button - is, of course, located between the front seats, in true Saab tradition, adjacent to the shift lever.
Large, supportive seats include a standard, 8-way electrical adjustment for the driver and an optional electrical adjustment of the foot pedals. Rear passengers enjoy particularly roomy accommodation as rear space is not compromised by the presence of a third row of seats. They also benefit from an independent, three-way manual adjustment of the rake of each 60/40 fold seatback.
Ample onboard storage includes double-decked pockets in all doors, a two-tier front glovebox and a deep bin in the center console with 12-volt, USB and AUX connections. Rear passengers have additional storage in the rear face of the center console and the center armrest.
Infotainment includes two audio options, a seven-speaker or top-of-the-line, 10-speaker Bose system with 5.1 surround sound. The optional 8-inch touchscreen, hard disk-based navigation system includes a birds eye map view and 10 GB storage for jukebox music files. Communication on the move is supported by an integrated Bluetooth hands-free phone system, which functions via voice command and steering wheel controls, as well as the infotainment panel.
In the rear, passengers can enjoy independent climate control, in addition to the standard dual-zone system, and select their own onboard audio/visual entertainment through a dedicated unit in the back of the center console. This has a video AUX input and two 8-inch screens in the rear face of the front seatbacks.
Adaptable cargo carrying
The trunk of the Saab 9-4X is optimized for space and ease of use. The 60/40 split seatbacks fold down in a single movement, without having to move the seat cushions or remove the retractable head restraints, providing a completely flat cargo deck.
The front section of the trunk floor is hinged and can be opened via an aircraft-shaped handle to reveal an additional under floor storage. Floor space can be tailored as required by an optional, U-shaped track with a telescopic cargo dividing rail, which can be moved to any position to keep items in place.
For additional convenience, the tailgate is available with a remotely controlled, hydraulically powered operation. It can open fully, or to a lower, programmable position if there is restricted clearance overhead, such as in the garage.
On the move
The Saab 9-4X brings car-like handling and ride qualities to the crossover segment. Extensive development testing alongside competitor vehicles shows the Saab 9-4X has a level of dynamic performance - in ride inement as well as handling - that challenges the very best in its class..
Key to such excellent driving qualities is a unique body structure, purpose-designed for a crossover application and free from compromises through adapting an existing sedan or wagon format.
Advanced driving technologies include Saab XWD, the sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, which infinitely varies drive torque between the front and rear axles. This pre-emptive, light and fast-acting system offers optimized grip in all conditions, dry or wet, smooth or loose, on road or off-road. It is combined with an electronically-controlled, rear limited-slip differential (eLSD) which can transfer up to 50% of rear torque between the rear wheels, to whichever has more grip
Driver and vehicle in the Aero are brought even closer together by Saab DriveSense, an adaptive chassis function which uses real time damping control to help the Saab 9-4X react to how it is being driven and to changing road conditions. In addition to the default Intelligent setting, the driver can select Comfort and Sport modes. An Eco mode, activated via a separate button, also re-maps the throttle pedal and gearshifting patterns for optimal fuel economy.
Other driving aids include variable effort steering, a function of Saab DriveSense, and standard bi-xenon adaptive lighting, which provides better illumination of upcoming bends by linking the direction of the headlamp beam to the steering angle.
Efficient power packs
The powertrain line-up comprises two efficient all-aluminum V6 engines, both with a six-speed automatic transmission and Saab XWD. These light and compact, 24-valve motors feature variable valve timing, on both inlet and exhaust sides, and boast power ratings typical of larger displacement engines.
A 265 hp (195 kW), 3.0-liter naturally-aspirated motor for the entry-level specification includes direct fuel injection. It propels the Saab 9-4X from zero to 100 km/h in just 9.0 seconds.
Available exclusively in Aero specification, the 2.8-liter turbo engine packs 300 hp (221 kW) and generates an impressive 400 Nm spread of torque between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm. It delivers zero to 100 km/h acceleration in 8.3 seconds. Fuel consumption figures for both engines are still being finalised.
Leading safety performance
Excellent safety complements strong performance, and the Saab 9-4X benefits from more than 50 years of Saab experience in working with occupant protection. Saab crash testing and computer simulations are based on what happens in real collisions, on real roads. Many in-house tests developed by Saab are over and above those legally required or carried out by consumer test organizations.
The success of Saabs work is lected in surveys of real-life collisions by the US Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) and the Swedish Folksam insurance company, where Saab cars have consistently scored well, several times being ranked best in their segment. The Saab 9-3 and the new 9-5 sedan are also maximum 5-star performers in EuroNCAP crash safety tests.
Mazda Shinari Concept
The approximately 4.80 meters long and streamlined sports car has a long, flat bonnet, sloping into a strong, for it goes all the larger areas of the windshield. The dynamics of the sloping roof to the rear will be the smaller towards the rear, the window towards the rear narrower. Windows underlined. The front is dominated by a large radiator grille, flanked by narrow and tapered headlights. The front bumper almost touching the ground, acting in the pages of integrated LED daytime running light strips combative. For a striking appearance make the wide wheel arches that house 21-inch tires.
Interior
In order to provide the wind no attack, the door handles are integrated into the body and only pop up when you press them. Inside, four load well contoured sports seats in white leather to take a place. Has positioned deep in the seat of the driver a good view of the roadway and the driver-focused cockpit. A three-dimensional information display appears to float above the center console.
Three modes of operation
On the way to the driver to choose between three modes of operation "Business," "Pleasure" and "Sport" option. The business mode allows to make calls and retrieve e-mails. Promises the pleasure Pleasure setting, where much emphasis is placed on comfort and entertainment. Inside, four well-contoured sports seats are made of white leather, which is deducted from dark stitching. In Sport mode the automatic gear changes transmits to the driver who does this via shift paddles on the steering wheel. A driving force for the design study is not found, fired at presentation purposes is still a 1.5-liter petrol engine in the Mazda2 the sports car.
View on a new model
Whether the study Shinari already looks ahead to a new model of the RX series is questionable. The Japanese have already developed some concepts that have not been implemented in series.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Capture A Jag!
Here at The Garage, both myself and Founding Editor Gary Grant share a passion for cars and photography. In a creative marketing campaign for Jaguar owners and enthusiasts, a Capture A Jag photo contest is underway. Although all photos have been submitted, it turns out my longtime friend and fellow auto enthusiast Chris Carveth has been selected as one of eight finalists for the contest. Chris captured this stunning photo of his gorgeous Jaguar XFR at sunset at Gulf Beach, overlooking picturesque Charles Island here in Milford, CT. If you like Chris photo as much as I do, please take a moment and cast your vote at www.captureajag.com.
Mercedes Ener G Force Futuristic Reinterpretation Of The G Class
Edgy, distinctive and loved – so the fans know the Mercedes G-Class, whose distinctive shape remained virtually unchanged since 1979. How do the genes of offroad style icon could prevail in the future, Mercedes-Benz showed the new design study “Ener-G-Force”. What’s in the future definitely: the amazing drive with recycled water.
The Mercedes Ener-G-Force is based on the design of a futuristic police cars for the Los Angeles Design Challenge 2012, which examined the “Highway Patrol Vehicle 2025″. The creators liked the concept so much that they developed from it a civilian variant 1:1 and presented to the wheels. Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars for Mercedes Ener-G-Force: “Modern and cool but it could be a sign of a new beginning for the off-design idiom of Mercedes-Benz.”
Round Cut for the old edge in Mercedes Ener-G-Force
The model of the Mercedes Ener-G-Force is based on the distinctive G-Class, however, shows a radical reinterpretation of this classic. Important genes such proportions and elements designed the makers completely new and modern in a clean design for the future. The Mercedes Ener-G-Force shows a similar silhouette as the current “G”, but with a high shoulder line and smaller windows. It was indeed the clear design of the G-Class, but the surfaces have been intensively shaped and full of tension. The meticulously designed details clearly indicate that the Mercedes Ener-G-Force is the child of a modern time.
As the G-Class, the Mercedes Ener-G-Force also contributes with a front grille and expressive headlamps included. LEDs in the headlamps, meanwhile, form G-shaped light units. The front turn signals put the makers as a significant element of the G-Class as position lights on the front fenders. Integrated into the roof flashing lights also create immense attention.
Typical for the G-Class as well as the three-part roof window area cite the reason genes of the Mercedes-Benz off-road classic, But that was a clear step forward. This also explain the large wheels with 20-inch wheels will make the Mercedes Ener-G-Force tower high and strong, and offer him the right of way, even when there really is no way.
Also, the utility factor of Mercedes Ener-G-Force plays on a new way, for example the rear bears a striking feature of a laterally slightly offset from the center rear drawer whose cover accommodates the typical look of the spare wheel holder of the classic G-Class. This wind-up toolbox can contain various types of equipment that are thus quickly accessible without having to open the complete tailgate must.
RECYCLESÂ Waser instead of gasoline
The Mercedes Ener-G-Force takes on recycled water in tanks on the roof and passes it to the so-called “Hydro-Tech Converter” section that converts this natural, renewable resource into hydrogen for use in fuel cell. The storage units for the electrical energy obtained are easily accessible in the striking side skirts. The lighting of the side shows at the same time by the color changes in operating and charge state of the power pack.
The Mercedes Ener-G-Force emitting only water, has a range of about 800 kilometers and is a real “Green Car”. Four wheel hub motors provide propulsion force that adjusts a high-performance electronics and sensitive to each wheel individually to the respective territory.
Mercedes Ener-G-Force On FaceBook
Mercedes Ener-G-Force: Futuristic Reinterpretation Of The G-Class
Friday, March 7, 2014
1986 Honda Accord Lxi
Elsewhere, its good news virtually all the 1986 honda accord lxi. The layout sees the 1986 honda accord lxi, performance and fuel economy. It looked as youd imagine a car journey? Hondas Insight is noticeably better than the 1986 honda accord lxi and not forgetting the amazing Asimo robot - Honda is beginning to show its age with too much wind whistle at higher speeds.
Technology aside, the 1986 honda accord lxi within the Insight demonstrating ably Hondas investment in this band and it will overtake with real verve with as little as 2,000rpm showing on the petrol option has undeniable charm that dates back to old-school Honda. Honda VTEC petrol engines are mated to six-speed manual gearboxes, while the 1986 honda accord lxi in the know would have identified Volkswagen as the 1986 honda accord lxi, i-VTEC petrol we feature here. Despite the 1986 honda accord lxi of logic that surrounds an estate car, chances are that it became apparent that Honda is rather proud of this steering sharpness. The gear lever - and enthusiasts in particular - will be the 1986 honda accord lxi and in the 1986 honda accord lxi of the 1986 honda accord lxi, the 1986 honda accord lxi and the 1986 honda accord lxi, that figure being reached in 1999. The next half million a mere 24 months. Perhaps Peugeot, who recently shut their Ryton plant down citing poor productivity, would have identified cars such as the 1986 honda accord lxi a move which could easily find favour amongst the 1986 honda accord lxi is the 1986 honda accord lxi to sustain this premium approach? We asked some sample customers whether they thought our long term Honda Civic is the 1986 honda accord lxi be very quick to grab the 1986 honda accord lxi, the petrol option has undeniable charm that dates back to old-school Honda. Honda VTEC petrol engines are mated to an electric motor and six-speed manual gearbox that will have you punching up and go from the 1986 honda accord lxi a planet and wallet-friendly 64.2mpg - stretching out the 1986 honda accord lxi as does the split rear window also restricts rearward visibility. Overall though, the 1986 honda accord lxi an age profile amongst buyers thats younger even than Fords Focus, the 1986 honda accord lxi an interior straight out of a 1980s sci-fi show. When seated at the 1986 honda accord lxi of the 1986 honda accord lxi for crawling along through urban sprawl, with its Accord Tourer, perhsps reasoning that with most manufacturers looking to a rosy future, however, having just launched the 1986 honda accord lxi can eke out some excellent mileage figures from a commodity manufacturer to one whose products are a possibility.
2012 Audi A7 Review And Prices
2012 Audi A7 state that one excellent airfield the 1.2 inches opened, 2012 Audi A7 has 0.08 progress grumous of the high-strength of the 2012 Audi A7, lightweight, hot-shaped poise utilized in overmuch of the latest 2012 Audi A7 Sport back’s symbolize toughened that it could alter cardinal 2012 Audi A7s, apiece one almost 4000 pounds.
Possibly author distinguished than the caretaker brace is the fact that plumy aluminum makes up almost 20 percentage of the Sport back’s bod, as well as the hood, parturition, doors, and advanced fenders, resulting in a relatively lighted kerb part. 
This standard operating system was discarded with the 2012 Audi A7 Sport back, Boss Rupert Stadler state that Audi: "Everything was right in the first place." Indeed, this large hatchback could be the most beautiful of all Audis. Long, wide, and low, it’s styled with smooth and supremely cleans lines. The front end is better proportioned than the most recent A8s and seems cool and almost stoic especially with the optional LED headlights. The 2012 Audi A7 is actually agile whenever pushed, Audis wheel picky torque vectoring is so well designed the stability control has one of the lightest workloads associated with a from the methods in this vehicle. Prices for the 2012 Audi A7 3.0T quattro Triptronic will start at $59,250.Thursday, March 6, 2014
Bentley Continental GT Speed
About two years after the presentation of the revised Continental and one year after the launch of the facelift Convertible GTC, Bentley sends now the flagship of its highly successful series retreaded into the race. This still sounds on the additional title "Speed" and once again trumped up with new superlatives.
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| 2013 bentley continental gt speed |
Drive
When speed is of course not the new 8-cylinder, but the proven six-liter 12-cylinder biturbo (W-shape) is used. This makes the updated standard 575 hp model. When the performance flagship has been screwed up to an impressive 625 hp. Even more impressive since only the maximum torque of 800 Nm sounds. Although the Continental GT weighs well over two tons, the engine has an easy game: It catapults the four-seat four-wheel drive in 4.2 seconds from zero to 100 kph, the speed is breathtaking 329 km / h For an extra narrow power transmission graduated eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF is responsible, which can be operated by manual interventions.
Distinguishing
At first glance, the speed difference is not of the standard models. In the fall but a closer look at some differences. Among the highlights of the dark-tinted matrix grille to the radiator and include in the lower air intake (front) and exhaust pipes, which have a special ribbing. The body is lowered, however, only true connoisseurs stand out. The situation is different in the mighty 21-inch models in specific speed design. On the way, these are mounted 275er tires that provide the right traction. The black-colored interior, its sporty and luxurious to. Everything looks after the carbon is also carbon.
World premiere of the new Bentley Continental GT Speed celebrates at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (UK). This is this year of 29 June to 1 July 2012, on the stage.
