We know that with the use of engine stop-start systems, fuel savings could be in the range of 5-10%. This is a important way to improve fuel efficiency. However, the engine stop-start system is mostly available with manual transmissions only (not including hybrid vehicles). As a consequence, this technology hasn’t used much even in Europe. Now things are going to change.
Audi has introduced an engine start-stop system on A3 models equipped with the S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. The start-stop system turns the engine off as soon as the vehicle comes to a stop; the engine stays off as long as the driver depresses the brake pedal. As soon as the driver removes their foot from the brake pedal, start-stop turns the engine back on--quietly, conveniently and quickly. So far, the only models so far with this feature are the highly-efficient 1.6-liter TDI and 1.4-liter TFSI. Thanks to the start-stop system, fuel efficiency is improved and CO2 emissions decreases. The A3 1.6 TDI is powered by a four-cylinder TDI, which delivers 105 hp at 4,400 rpm and accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 11.7 seconds, top speed is 194 km/h (120 mph). Average fuel consumption is just 4.2 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (56.00 US mpg), and 109 grams of CO2 per kilometer (175.42 g/mile).
The A3 1.4 TFSI four-cylinder gasoline engine delivers 125 hpand accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 9.3 seconds and tops out at 203 km/h (126 mph). Average fuel consumption is just 5.3 liters (44.38 US mpg), and 124 grams of CO2 per kilometer (199.56 g/mile).
Additionally, both A3s are equipped with an on-board energy-recovery system, which "intelligently controls the alternator to recover energy" during braking and coasting. The energy is temporarily stored in the battery, and then fed back into the electrical system during acceleration--thus reducing the load on the alternator.
Sales will start this November. Prices for the 3-door 1.4 TFSI start at €23,700 and €24,600 for the Sportback. The new 1.6 TDI with S tronic will sell at a base price of €25,500 for the 3-door and €26,400 for the Sportback.
Infiniti has announced the pricing for the 2010 Infiniti FX, which is set to go on sale in the coming weeks. The 2010 models come with slight price increases comparing to 2009 model. The entry level model 2010 Infiniti FX35 rear-wheel-drive starts at $42,400, up $250 over the 2009 model. Then follows the $43,850 FX35 AWD version, a $150 increase. At the top end is the 2010 Infiniti FX50 with all-wheel drive, which is priced at $58,400, the same price as the 2009 model year vehicle.
The FX35 comes with a 303-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine, while the FX50 includes a 32-valve, 5.0-liter DOHC V8 that produces up to 390 hp. Both the engines are mated with a standard 7-speed automatic transmission, double-wishbone front/multi-link rear suspension, large 4-wheel disc brakes, and 21-inch aluminum-alloy Enkei wheels. Take note that solid magnesium paddle shifters are available on the FX50 in the Sport Package.
Inside, Bluetooth and USB connection port for Ipod comes standard. There is also a 2.0GB hard drive as an addition to the Bose premium audio system(on vehicles without navigation). Additionally, the FX comes with Continuous Damping Control (CDC), Rear Active Steer.
Other features available on the 2010 Infiniti FX models include Distance Control Assist (DCA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems, as well as Forward Collision Warning (FCW), which alerts the driver that a collision may be imminent. It also provides automatic braking to help lower the risk of injury due to a collision.
The first spy shots of the upcoming second generation Citroen C4 has been revealed. The spy shots doesn’t tell us Not much, because the camouflage is still pretty distracting and quite effective at disguising any changes to the design. However, we do get that the new Citroen C4, will be lighter and more efficient than the current model, the company’s product boss Mr Vincent Besson has told media recently. It will be produced in three-and five-door body and will be completed with the new 3-cylinder engines and, possibly, hybrid setup consisting of gasoline and electric motors.
According to Mr Besson, petrol-electric power is not necessary or economically viable in small city cars, and only for high-end versions of the next C4. However, he expects that “a large part of a future C5 range” will have hybrid power.
The C4 will be coming with a DS4 sibling too, just as the C3 has its more flashy counterpart in the DS3. Citroen will be using the DS designation for more lively, design-happy iterations of its model lineup. Citroen's strategy is to take the entire brand upmarket and set it up as an alternative consumer choice to the more established premium brands such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes.
The new Citroen C4 is scheduled to make its public debut at the Paris auto show in September of next year.
Moving up in the automotive world is a difficult task, Hyundai is trying to be a globally competitive automaker. Here they are now competing with the Mercedes S-Class and the BMW 7-series. Hyundai has unveiled a “Stretch Edition” of its flagship Equus luxury sedan in Korea. Compared to standard version, the Equus Stretch Edition features a longer wheelbase and several upgrades, both in styling and performance. Measuring at 5.460 meters in length, the stretched Equus is 30 centimeters longer than the standard model and outsizes the competition in most of its dimensions. It’s longer than the Mercedes S500L, the BMW 750Li and the Lexus LS460L - each a extended-wheelbase version of those respective brand's flagship models. It’s also just 15-inches smaller than the simply massive Rolls-Royce Phantom. At 1.495 meters in height, it is also the tallest.
To make it recognizable from the standard Equus, The stretched Equus comes with a new grill featuring horizontal bars and a special emblem in the middle.
Power comes from either the Lambda 3.8 liter 6-cylinder or the Tau 5.0 liter V8. The latter sports a healthy 400 hp that is the equal in strength of the competition too.
Inside, the Equus Stretch Edition received power-driven footrest, rear set leg support, Relax Posture Control and Massage System function.
In Korea the car is priced from 135 million won to 146 million won, which equates to $113,000 to $122,180. The Equus was launched in its first abroad market in August. The Chinese were the first to benefit from the luxury of the limousine, priced locally at $99,100. Hyundai has already announced that the standard Equus sedan will launch in the U.S. in 2010 as a 2011 model. However, there is no official comment on plans to bring this special edition.
Additionally, Hyundai has already built three bulletproof versions of the vehicles for the Korean president, which is the first locally produced car to serve the president.
Two years ago, the Range Rover LRX Concept was first revealed at the Detroit Auto Show. Now, according to the lately announcement by the company, the Range Rover LRX is confirmed to debut next year and join the Range Rover line-up in 2011. With the help of a grant offer from the UK government worth $57.4 million, the Range Rover LRX will be built at Land Rover's Halewood, UK facility and sold in over 100 countries. It will be the smallest, lightest and most efficient vehicle the company has ever produced.
Details are not released. But a hybrid variant has been confirmed, with an all-electric model also a strong possibility with the brand aiming to significantly reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Its design will remain virtually identical to the concept.
According to Land Rover design director, Gerry McGovern, "The new vehicle will be a natural extension to the Range Rover line-up, complementing the existing models and helping to define a new segment. It will be true to the concept and have many recognizable Range Rover design cues including the signature clamshell bonnet, the floating roof and the solid 'wheel-at-each-corner' stance."
No more spy shots or speculation, the redesigned 2010 Toyota 4Runner truck-based SUV (also known as the Hilux Surf in Japan) has been officially revealed. Featuring a body-on-frame construction, the new 4Runner is taller, longer and wider than the outgoing model. The 2010 4Runner is offered in three trim levels including the base SR5, an off-road friendly Trail version and a more luxurious Limited. The base SR5 models have fender extensions with mud guards, a unique grille, and a standard roof rack. The off-road focused Trail model features a unique hood scoop, bumper guards, and darkened head- and tail lights. The range topping Limited model boasts a chrome grille, 20-inch wheels, and body-color accents.
Engine options include a 157HP (with 178 lb-ft of torque) 2.7 liter 4-cylinder that is mated to a 4-speed automatic, or a 270HP (with 278 lb-ft of torque) 4.0 liter V6, paired with a 5 speed ECT-i automatic transmission. The former, that returns 18mpg city/23mpg highway, is only available with the 4×2 configuration on the SR5 trim level while the latter, good for 17mpg city/22mpg highway, is featured on all 4×4 models.
The SR5 and Trail variants are outfitted with a two-speed part-time four-wheel drive system, while the 4Runner Limited is equipped with a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential. If your adventures take you off the beaten path, you'll be happy to know the Trail version features a standard electronic-locking rear differential.
Apart from a part time 4×4 setup, the range toping Trail version comes with a full-time multi mode 4×4 with a locking center differential. The Multi-Terrain Select system in the Trail version enables the driver to choose between four different settings, while the Crawl Control (CRAWL) feature, which allows the 4Runner to creep slowly, comes with five different speed settings. The Trail version also features a higher ground clearance.
Inside, the 4Runner boasts a more luxurious interior with high quality materials and a modern dash design. According to Toyota, the fifth generation 4Runner “offers sure-footed off-road capability and increased comfort with added roominess.” While all models are nicely equipped; options include a Safety Connect telematics system, a rear-view monitor, leather upholstery, a navigation system, and seating for up to seven people. The new 4Runner is also expected to be offered with features like keyless ignition, Bluetooth connectivity as well as GPS.
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