2009 Audi A4 Avant Debuts In New York
Filed under: Audi, Auto Show Pictures, New York International Auto Show, Wagons/Estates
Tags: a4, avant, German
The 2009 Audi A4 Avant just debuted at the 2008 New York International Auto Show. The 2009 Audi A4 Avant will feature the 2.0 TFSI, a new high-powered four-cylinder turbocharged engine that has 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The current A4 Avant offers 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. The 2009 A4 Sedan will also offer drivers the 2.0 TFSI or the option of a 3.2 FSI V6, with 265 hp and the patented Audi Valvelift Technology (AVS).
Enhancements to the V6 include considerably lower inner friction and a valve actuation system called the Audi Valvelift System which varies the stroke of the intake valves. The engines will improve performance, while reducing fuel consumption versus previous generations.
A number of transmission options are also available, including a six-speed manual and tiptronic transmission, which is optional for the 3.2 FSI.
The Avant’s proportions have been reconfigured significantly from the previous generation model to emphasize both sport and practicality. The front overhang has been shortened, while the hood and wheelbase have increased in size. The new A4 Avant measures 15.42 feet in length, making it 4.72 inches longer than its previous model. Its body is considerably more rigid and safer in build than its predecessor, while still being approximately 10 percent lighter. Those proportions yield the largest luggage capacity in its class, with up to 50.5 cubic feet of cargo space.
Other points of emphasis in the interior and exterior design are the xenon plus headlights, which consist of 14 white light-emitting diodes, and a driver-oriented cockpit that borrows many features from the larger A8, including an electro-mechanical parking brake that also comes standard on other Audi models.
Technology options for the new model include a complete range of high-tech systems. These include the Audi parking system (a parking aid and standard for the A4 Avant), Audi lane assist (the lane departure warning system) and Audi side assist (which warns of hazards when changing lanes). The adaptive cruise control option maintains the distance to the vehicle in front.
When it comes to multimedia, the Audi A4 Avant will meet every user’s needs. The Audi Music Interface (AMI) allows for iPod connectivity and control. The navigation systems with MMI Basic plus or with DVD including MMI are additional upgrade options. Bluetooth connectivity for cell phones is included, as well. The car audio system is by Bang & Olufsen. A 505 watt, ten-channel amplifier controls 14 speakers.
MINI Cooper Clubman At The Detroit Auto Show
Filed under: 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Auto Show Pictures, Economy Sport/GT, MINI, Wagons/Estates
Tags: Clubman, Cooper, Detroit, German
The 2008 Detroit Auto Show came just in time for MINI to show off their Clubman before it goes on sale in the US on the 19th of February. The new MINI Clubman has MINI DNA all over it but, at the same time, incorporates unique redesign. The Clubman also featured full integration for the Apple iPhone into the car’s control system. If the MINI is fitted with a navigation system, the joystick serves to conveniently control the iPhone’s telephone and audio functions.
Key design aspects to the MINI Clubman are its unprecedented split door at the rear which is made of up two door panels hinged right at the outside and opening up sideways to a wide angle and the Clubdoor that is located on the right-hand of the car and hinged at the back which offers access to the surprisingly roomy backseat.
The MINI Clubman offers new opportunities while also retaining the qualities so typical of the Brand. In particular, this means the car’s incomparably agile handling,the MINI Clubman - like all the other models in the range - guaranteeing a unique standard of driving pleasure based, first, on suspension technology unusually demanding in the small car segment and, second, on the car’s truly powerful, high-torque but exceptionally efficient power units.
The MINI Cooper Clubman is powered by a 1.6L four-cylinder, 120 horsepower engine. 0-62 is just shy of 10 seconds, squeaking by at 9.8, but makes up for the sluggish start with fantastic average fuel consumption at 42.6 mpg. For a little more speed, upgrade to the MINI Cooper S Clubman and you’ll do 0-62 in 7.6 seconds with the four-cylinder 175 horsepower engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection that still gets a decent 37.2 mpg.
2008 Dodge ZEO Concept Premieres At The Detroit Auto Show
Filed under: 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Auto Show Pictures, Dodge, Green Hybrids/Alternative Fuels, Wagons/Estates
Tags: American, Detroit, zeo
The Dodge ZEO Concept is a four-passenger, 2+2 sport wagon that embraces the bold, expressive look of the Dodge brand, exhibiting a new, youthful breed of muscle car for the 21st century. Built for driving enthusiasts, it features an electric-only propulsion system with a lithium-ion battery pack capable of at least 250 miles. Unlike other such vehicles, the Dodge ZEO Concept is a four-door, four-passenger model that delivers function as well as environmental responsibility.
Specifications
Length: 172.8 inches (4390 mm)
Width at H-point: 68.6 inches (1743 mm)
Height: 50.8 inches (1290 mm)
Wheelbase: 109.9 inches (2792 mm)
MINI Cooper Clubman Video
Filed under: 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, Auto Show Videos, Economy Sport/GT, MINI, Wagons/Estates
Tags: Clubman, Cooper
The MINI Cooper Clubman and MINI Cooper S Clubman landed stateside at the 2007 LA Auto Show, a few months before its February 16th, 2008 sale date. The Clubman represents the modern successor to the legendary classics like Morris Mini Traveller, Austin Mini Countryman, and Mini Clubman Estate. Watch our video of the Cooper Clubman and let us know what you think about this larger version of the much-loved MINI Cooper.
You can also watch the MINI Cooper Clubman Video on YouTube.
To discuss MINI vehicles, visit our MINI Forums.
MINI Cooper Clubman: “The Other MINI” At The LA Auto Show
Filed under: 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, Auto Show Pictures, Coupes, Economy Sport/GT, MINI, Wagons/Estates
Tags: Cooper Clubman
All-new to the MINI family is the Clubman, which made its US debut at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show. The Clubman represents the modern successor to the legendary classics Morris Mini Traveller, Austin Mini Countryman, and Mini Clubman Estate. The MINI Cooper Clubman and MINI Cooper S Clubman will go on sale February 16th, 2008.
2008 Volvo XC70 Video
Filed under: Auto Show Videos, New York International Auto Show, Volvo, Wagons/Estates
“The all-new Volvo XC70 has been developed for people who want to live out their dreams,” says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Brand, Business and Product Strategy at Volvo Cars. “It has the right attitude, capacity and equipment for enjoyable trips to and from your adventures.” Lex is definatly on to something, which you can see, as you watch the unveiling from the 2007 International Auto Show of the 2008 Volvo XC70.
Video: 2008 Volvo XC70
Volvo XC70 Comes To The NYIAS
Filed under: New York International Auto Show, Volvo, Wagons/Estates
* Improved child safety with a world innovation
* Advanced drive systems contribute to increased safety margins
* Six-cylinder engine for the first time in the Volvo XC70
* All Wheel Drive and advanced drive systems
* First-class comfort and versatile function
* World class audio system
The all-new Volvo XC70 is the third generation of Volvo’s capable cross-country model.
Just like the all-new V70 model, it offers everything that implies of luxury and a spacious interior, sporty driving properties and high comfort. In addition, the all-nefw Volvo XC70 has a number of smart solutions for increased flexibility and practical function.
Safety is naturally at the highest level and the car also includes Volvo’s world breakthrough: integrated child booster cushions with a choice of two seating heights.
“The all-new Volvo XC70 has been developed for people who want to live out their dreams,” says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Brand, Business and Product Strategy at Volvo Cars. “It has the right attitude, capacity and equipment for enjoyable trips to and from your adventures. And just like the all-new V70 model, it clearly marks Volvo’s increasingly strong position in the premium segment. It is therefore logical that the all-new Volvo XC70 should inherit much of the same character and properties. We recognize the design, the comfort and the high safety level. The fact that the all-new Volvo XC70 is now even more versatile and capable than its predecessor is a direct response to our customers’ expressed wishes and needs.”
To improve safety for children in the rear seat of the all-new XC70 model, Volvo has further developed the Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with a stronger body structure, extended inflatable curtains and a height-adjustable integrated child booster cushion - the latter a world innovation.
The booster cushion, which is integrated in the rear seat, can be set at two heights, allowing children of different sizes to sit sufficiently high to see out through the windows yet at the same time get the most effective protection possible. The lower setting is intended for children between 115 and 140 cm in height and weighing between 22 and 36 kg, while the upper setting is designed for children measuring 95-120 cm and weighing between 15 and 25 kg. The all-new Volvo XC70 can be equipped with integrated child booster cushions in both outer rear seats.
The adjustable booster cushion means the seat belt geometry is optimum irrespective of the child’s height. The integrated booster cushion is also accompanied by safety belts with specially adjusted force limiters. They contribute to the best possible protective effect by restraining the child with just the right amount of tensioning force in a collision.
The inflatable curtains in the all-new Volvo XC70 have been extended by 60 mm, which in combination with the height-adjustable booster cushions and the strong body side structure provide more children of different sizes with effective protection in a side impact.
To optimise side-impact protection in the all-new XC70 model, not only for children but for all occupants, the body’s entire side structure is both stronger and lighter thanks to a well-balanced combination of high-tensile steel of different grades (High Strength Steel, Extra High Strength Steel and the extremely strong Ultra High Strength Steel). The various components and grades of steel interact to minimise penetration into the passenger compartment. The aim is instead to get the entire car to move sideways - away from the colliding vehicle.
The new type of side-impact airbag which was launched together with the all-new S80 model makes Volvo’s patented SIPS (Side Impact Protection System) into an even more effective safety system. The new side impact airbags have two separate chambers - one for the hip section and one for the chest. Since the hips can withstand greater force than the chest can, the lower chamber inflates with up to five times more pressure than the upper section. The side-impact airbags interact with the inflatable curtains and the body’s network of safety beams to provide the most effective.
“We can now for the first time ever offer a six-cylinder engine in the Volvo XC70,” says Tomas Ahlborg, Project Director for the all-new XC70. “It is the extremely compact transverse in-line unit made of aluminium that was launched in conjunction with the all-new Volvo S80. With six cylinders and a displacement of 3.2 litres, the XC70 gets the power and driveability that a true adventurer needs. With this new powerplant, we can give discerning customers an entirely new and longed-for driving experience.”
* Six-cylinder normally aspirated engine with dual cam profiles
* Extremely compact design
* Energy-efficient turbodiesel from second-generation D5 range
* Petrol and diesel engines at the launch of the all-new Volvo XC70
For more on the XC70, take a look at the Volvo website
Photo Gallery: Volvo XC70 Pictures
Video: 2008 Subaru Outback debuts from NAIAS
Filed under: Auto Show Videos, Detroit Auto Show, Subaru, Wagons/Estates
Subaru teamed up with L.L. Bean as they unveiled their newest version of the Outback. The vehicle that launched the crossover category over 10 years ago is restyled and equipped with more features than ever before.
Watch Subaru unveil the 2008 Subaru Outback
