2010 Aston Martin Rapide

2010 Aston Martin Rapide

Aston Martin Rapide

Aston Martin has released first official pictures of the of the upcoming Aston Martin Rapide saloon. The car bares strong resemblance to the Aston martin Rapide Concept first shown in 2006 and is designed to compete with cars like the Porsche Panamera and the production version of the recently previewed Lambhorghini Estoque Concept.

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2010 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer

2010 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer

Insignia OPC Sports Tourer: New High-Performance Wagon from Opel

• Top power: High performance station wagon must complete 10,000 km on Nürburgring
• Top package: 325 hp, 435 Nm, Adaptive 4x4 and 1530 liters load capacity
• Top points: Insignia OPC sedan testing passed with flying colors

Rüsselsheim/Nürburgring. The Insignia OPC Sports Tourer will hit dealerships later this year, but first it has to go through hell – the Green Hell of the Nürgurgring's Nordschleife, considered the toughest, most demanding and dangerous race track in the world.

Opel engineers insist that all vehicles in their OPC range complete a rigorous 10,000 kilometer testing around the 20.8 km Nordschleife of the Nürburgring, dubbed the Green Hell by legendary race car driver Jackie Stewart. Just a few days ago, the Insignia OPC sedan finished the challenge with no problems.

“The Insignia OPC sedan raced 487 laps for 12 days at some top speeds flawlessly. This kind of performance and quality is what we expect from all our Opel cars,” says Hans Demant, Managing Director of Opel.

The Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer boasts a 325 hp/239 kW, 435 Nm 2.8-liter V6 Turbo engine for maximum power. It features high-tech elements, like a lower, reworked mechatronic chassis with FlexRide, an Adaptive 4x4 transmission with an electronic rear limited slip differential (eLSD) and purpose-built Brembo brakes – all complemented by spacious station wagon functionality with 1530 liters of load capacity.

Automotive technology at its best

Like the Insignia OPC sedan, the Sports Tourer is full of technological highlights. The OPC engine is 25 percent more powerful than the 260 hp version of the 2.8 V6 Turbo in the Insignia Sport and Cosmo. The increase in power was obtained by reworking the exhaust, significantly reducing the counter pressure, with special mufflers contributing to a sporty, deep sound. The unit comes with a six-speed manual transmission, enabling acceleration from zero to 100 in 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (restricted).

The management unit of the Adaptive 4x4 with eLSD has been recalibrated to adapt torque distribution to the sporty philosophy of the OPC. Engineers at the Opel Performance Center developed a specific high-performance front axle called HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut) for the chassis, which is 10 mm lower than the AWD Insignia Sport version. Benefits include reduced steering disturbances and an improved handling feel for the driver.

The OPC's standard electronic FlexRide suspension has been adjusted for extra performance and caters to those enjoying a sportier ride. It offers three different sporty choices: The standard mode provides its most comfortable ride, a Sport mode is stiffer and a new OPC setting brings optimal fun.

Tough Track: 12 days, 27,000 gear shifts, 35,551 curves and 487 laps

Before it hits the roads in the fall, the new Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer will take its turn against the Green Hell: 10,000 fast kilometers on the Nordschleife translates to around 180,000 kilometers on the road. Modified tuning accommodates the station wagon's shifted center of gravity, which is why the Sports Tourer suspension will be tested separately on the Ring.

Even though the 20.8 kilometer, extremely demanding track is part of the standard OPC program, this extra validation is always something special for Volker Strycek and his team. The ex-German Car Championship driver and Manager of the Opel Performance Center sums up: Twelve drivers, Opel design engineers and Nordschleife connoisseurs trade off behind the wheel of a production Insignia OPC for 12 days, rain or shine. “It really can take a toll on a those 12 days add up to 27,000 gear shifts along 35,551 curves during a total of 487 laps.”

Validation Coordinator Jens Hornischer, who drives a major part of the endurance test distance, says, “We push the car to give a constant 90 percent or so – and that is really a tough test for any car. And there is next to no preparation work.”

An Arden Blue Insignia OPC sedan completed its rite of passage earlier in May, confirming the high quality standard that Opel customers expect.

Opel's long tradition of sport station wagons offers best of both worlds

The Insignia OPC Sports Tourer is the latest chapter in a long station wagon success story. As a pioneer in this segment, Opel brought the Olympia Rekord Car-A-Van, a combination of car and van, to Europe in 1953. In 1970 Opel built the Ascona Voyage, the first lifestyle station wagon.

The next innovation in this segment followed in 1991, when Opel presented the most powerful production station wagon in the world, the Omega Caravan 24V, a 3-liter, straight-six cylinder with 204 hp. The Vectra OPC continued the Opel tradition of powerful station wagons. It was available from 2005, ultimately as a high-performance front-wheel drive model with 280 hp.

The new 325 hp Opel Insignia OPC takes a huge step forward in terms of driving dynamics with even more power and the Adaptive 4x4 system. And the dynamic Sports Tourer version is also bound to turn heads.

OPC: At home on the Nordschleife

Opel testing on Nürburgring's Nordschleife has a long tradition dating back to the 1960s and sealed when the German brand signed a partner contract with the legendary race track in 2006. It was then that the Rüsselsheim automaker opened its own test center directly at the Ring. The venue offers ideal testing conditions, particularly for Opel's OPC models.

The current high-performance model portfolio includes the Corsa OPC, Astra OPC, Meriva OPC and Zafira OPC in addition to the Insignia OPC notchback, hatchback and Sports Tourer. While the special “Nürburgring Edition” model of the Astra OPC honors the demanding race track, the Astra “OPC Race Camp” pays tribute to the second season of a wildly successful race driver casting.
The OPC Race Camp offer ambitious drivers with no motorsport experience the opportunity to discover their motor racing talents through a rigorous talent scouting process and numerous qualification stages. Those who have the necessary abilities then receive professional instruction to hone their skills and prepare them for competitive motor racing. Opel provides the professional training, cars and necessary organizational support for the Race Camp. Currently 750 candidates from a total of 22,000 applicants are undergoing the training and elimination process led by former race drivers and Opel brand ambassadors Manuel Reuter and Joachim Winkelhock. All hope to land one of the 10 coveted spots on the driver team for the two Astra racing cars that participate in the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring next y

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Peugeot SR1 Concept Car 2010

Peugeot SR1 Concept Car 2010

PEUGEOT CELEBRATES 200 YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH A NEW LOOK

• 200th anniversary of the Marque
• New styling direction, new mobility offers and a new visual identity
• First car to display the new Lion badge – The stunning new RCZ
• Environmental offensive: iOn, 100% electric

It was in 1810 that Jean-Pierre and Jean-Frédéric Peugeot turned their father’s cereal mill into a steel foundry and took the Peugeot family into the industrial era.

Now 200 years later, a new chapter in the Peugeot story is about to open with a further evolution of the brand; a new styling direction, a new corporate Lion badge and a new signature – Peugeot MOTION & EMOTION.

The look of individual products is the visual face of the brand in the eyes of its current and prospective customers. To enable Peugeot to evolve and adapt to future challenges, Peugeot’s current styling direction will change into a new look, typified by the new Peugeot SR1 concept car. This dream car embodies a new stronger, more extreme and pure expression of the Peugeot Style of tomorrow and also displays a new look corporate Lion badge.

The SR1 concept car also blends styles in terms of its technical characteristics. For example, it incorporates HYbrid4 technology, which will be available in the Peugeot 3008 from 2011. On the SR1, at the front, a 1.6 litre THP petrol engine with a power output of 218 bhp is combined with a rear electric motor developing 95 bhp. In electric only mode, the car becomes a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV), with a combined cycle fuel consumption of 57.7 mpg or 119 g/km of CO₂.

When the two power trains operate simultaneously, the SR1 develops a potential maximum power output of 313 bhp, while benefiting also from four-wheel drive.

With the use of HYbrid4 technology, which will eventually be available on different models in the Peugeot range, the SR1 concept offers convincing proof that driving enjoyment can be combined with environmental friendliness.

The vehicle’s dynamic efficiency is enhanced by a rigid, lightweight structure comprising of a one-piece body incorporating a tubular chassis onto which are mounted the mechanical components and suspension.

Exploiting the best of existing technology to offer road holding worthy of this exceptional concept, the suspension consists of double wishbones with drop links at the front and the rear. For even greater driving precision, the SR1 innovates also through the adoption of four-wheel steering. Motorised links on the rear suspension wishbones control the turning angle of the rear wheels as a function of vehicle speed, giving the vehicle superb agility under all circumstances.

The Peugeot SR1 concept car will be unveiled to the general public at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, in March.

The Lion symbol, which has been associated with Peugeot products since 1858, is evolving too. Created by Peugeot’s own designers, the Lion badge is a focal point on every vehicle. The new Lion is now simpler in design, more dynamic, with a new posture and fluidity. It has a new bi-metallic look through the use of both matt and polished finishes.

Three-dimensional in design for greater modernity it discards the current blue flag background for a stronger effect. The current Peugeot blue colour also becomes darker and is now combined into the new font used to create the Marque’s name.

The first production vehicle to display this new Lion will be the stunning Peugeot RCZ launched in the Spring.

To reduce its ecological footprint and dependency on fossil fuels, Peugeot has been actively investing in a range of new technologies to meet the needs of future mobility, without sacrificing driving enjoyment.

Today, Peugeot continues to improve engine efficiency through its downsizing strategy for both petrol and HDi FAP diesel engines. Alongside this; the Marque is also currently developing a new three cylinder petrol engine.

Tomorrow, the range of cars will consist of:

100% electric – The first product called the i0n, which will initially be launched onto the European market at the end of 2010, is compact and very easy to drive, and can easily accommodate four people in its spacious interior. Offering good levels of driveability in all circumstances, it is designed for the urban and suburban traffic of Europe’s large cities.

Powered by Li-ion batteries that give it a top speed of 80 mph and a range of 80 miles when fully charged, they can be recharged fully in six hours via a standard household electrical socket or to 80% of their capacity in just 30 minutes, via a bespoke rapid recharging unit.

In terms of light commercial vehicles (LCVs), from the spring of 2010, a 100% electric Partner Origin van will also be available, with a load capacity of 3 m3.

Micro-Hybrid – Peugeot’s e-HDi system will be widely introduced across the Marque’s model range from the end of 2011. It will reduce both fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 15%.

Full-Hybrid – In the spring of 2011, the 3008 HYbrid4 will combine environmental efficiency and versatility in day-to-day use.

This innovative technology allows:

• a reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions of 35% (74.3 mpg, 99g of CO₂)
• a “zero emission” mode when the vehicle is driven in electric only mode, benefiting fuel economy and silent operation
• a boost to performance, with a potential maximum power output of 200 bhp

As the electric power train is mounted at the rear of the vehicle it also provides a number of other benefits such as the ability to provide all wheel drive.

The Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 will be the first diesel hybrid on the market and will be followed by other Peugeot hybrid models.

HYbrid4 Plug-in - In 2012, Peugeot will be introducing plug-in HYbrid4 technology for a further reduction in emissions levels: the target is less than 50g of CO₂/km and 141 mpg.

This environmental strategy followed by the Marque also applies to its two-wheeled vehicles produced by Peugeot Scooters.

Peugeot is currently developing an electric bicycle in partnership with Ultra Motor. It is powered by an electric motor combined with a removable 36 volt Li-ion battery pack, offering a range of 44 miles.

The E-Vivacity, a 100% electric scooter with a power equivalent to that of a 50 cm3 petrol engined scooter, is a new eco-friendly mode of transport, which is reasonably priced and offers extremely low maintenance and running costs.

Its Li-ion battery pack can be fully recharged in 4 hours and recharged to 80% of its capacity in 2 hours, offering a range from 50 to 62 miles.

Clean and quiet, with good acceleration from a standing start and a maximum speed of 28 mph, it blends seamlessly into urban traffic. The production model will be unveiled at the end of 2010 and will go on sale in 2011. With 15 years experience in this type of technology, Peugeot is perfectly placed to maximise every opportunity.

On the strength of the technology already deployed in its cars and two-wheelers, Peugeot is rising to the environmental challenge of today and tomorrow. Peugeot is, however, going further with a comprehensive response to the mobility needs of the future.

Capitalising on its comprehensive range of cars, light commercial vehicles, scooters and cycles, Peugeot has created an original mobility service offer called, Mu by Peugeot.

This unique and innovative service allows everyone, whether or not they own a vehicle, and whether or not they are already a Peugeot customer, to access a range of mobility services, all by means of a pre-paid credit card which can be topped up online. The principle is simple: customers top up their cards by purchasing mobility units directly on the website. These mobility units can then be used in two different ways:

1. To rent products and accessories from the Peugeot range, such as a private vehicle (207, 308 CC, 3008…) for a weekend away, a bicycle for a family outing, a scooter for getting around town, a commercial vehicle for moving house or an accessory for a special journey: GPS, roof rack, etc…
2. To purchase services from one of the programmes partners. The card holder can book a plane or train ticket, a hotel room, or organise a personalised journey. Driving lessons, an introduction to eco-friendly driving or advanced driving lessons can also be booked.

The programme has already been trialled successfully in a number of cities in France and among 20,000 group employees. In December 2009, 27 Parisian sites were introduced to the current programme, including Peugeot dealers, Peugeot Scooter dealers, and Peugeot Avenue, the Marque’s ‘shop window’ on the Champs Elysées. Roll-out in a number of other European cities is planned in the near future: Berlin, Rome, London, Brussels and Madrid…

So far, 42% of Mu by Peugeot users make use of this service to experience Peugeot’s range of private vehicles and with Mu by Peugeot, the Marque is forging new relationships with its customers. It is also a service that generates additional point of sale traffic by attracting new customers, and is, therefore, also a means of winning market share for the Marque.

Since 1810, Peugeot has associated its name, and later its Lion emblem, to hand-saws, tools, steel crinoline stays, coffee grinders, salt and pepper grinders, bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, cars and light commercial vehicles. To each of these worlds Peugeot has brought passion and innovation, while laying emphasis on its industrial origins based in particular on strong principles and the working of steel.

Now a new and exciting chapter is about to start!

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Toyota Auris 2010

Toyota Auris 2010

Sharper looks, sweeter handling and improved specifications

KEY POINTS

• Auris comprehensively restyled inside and out
• Suspension and steering fine-tuned for improved ride comfort and handling
• Toyota Optimal Drive powertrains deliver class leading combination of power, fuel efficiency and low emissions
• New Auris SR with sports styling, targeting younger customers
• Range to increase further with introduction of British-built full hybrid Auris HSD in July
• On sale now, on-the-road prices from £14,463

Toyota has launched its new Auris 2010, with a sharper appearance inside and out, higher quality materials throughout the cabin and a suspension system tweaked for extra ride comfort and stability. As well as packing much more visual appeal, the range of three and five-door hatchbacks continues to deliver a class leading combination of performance, fuel economy and low CO₂emissions from its line-up of Toyota Optimal Drive powertrains.

Restyled exterior
Rather than simple styling tweaks, Toyota has gone back to the sheet metal to give its new Auris 2010 more road presence and driver appeal. The front end has been comprehensively reworked with a new deep bumper with integrated fog lamps (TR and SR models), new swept-back headlamps, a revised bonnet profile with stronger crease lines and a grille that adopts the Toyota family identity established by the latest generation Avensis and Verso.

New 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels have been designed for the TR and SR models and all versions feature turn indicator lights integrated into the door mirrors. At the rear there is a smart flash of chrome across the top of the number plate, revised lamp clusters and a new rear bumper with extended corner sections that create a “catamaran” look. Owners can choose from seven exterior colours, including three new metallic shades.

High quality cabin
A soft-touch material has been introduced across the top of the instrument binnacle and around the glovebox, and the centre console has been revised with changes to the instrument design for smarter appearance and improved clarity. Auris’s distinctive bridged centre console has a new silver finish that matches the doorhandles and the shape of the handbrake has been changed for easier operation and improved tactile quality.

White illumination has been introduced for the Optitron instrument dials, with sportier amber lighting for the analogue instruments featured in the new Auris SR. To complete the fresh look, new cloth upholstery designs have been introduced.

Retuned suspension and steering
Toyota’s engineers have taken UK customer feedback into account in fine-tuning Auris’s suspension to better suit European roads and driver preferences (T2, TR models). The revisions have undergone extensive local testing and the result is stable high-speed driving performance with secure handling and greater ride comfort.

The speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering (EPS) has also been revised and refined to deliver better feedback and improved vehicle agility.

Toyota Optimal Drive powertrains
Auris retains its current range of petrol and diesel engines and six-speed manual and MultiMode transmissions, all of which benefit from Toyota Optimal Drive technologies for reduced weight, higher efficiency and reduced emissions. Performance data is unchanged, but they continue to offer a strong balance of performance, fuel efficiency and low emissions

The range comprises a 1.33-litre Dual VVT-i petrol engine, with manual transmission, with Toyota Stop & Start technology; 1.6 Valvematic petrol with manual; or MultiMode transmission; and 1.4 D-4D diesel, again with manual gearbox; or Multimode:

	1.33 Dual VVT-i with Stop & Start	1.6 Valvematic		1.4 D-4D 90
Transmission	6MT	6MT	M/M	6MT	M/M
Combined Fuel consumption (mpg)	48.7	42.8	44.8	60.1	58.9
Carbon dioxide (g/km)	136	153	146	125	127
VED band	E	G	F	D	D

Revised grades and improved equipment specifications
The new Auris 2010 moves to a new three-grade line-up, with a new sporty SR grade joining the established T2 and TR models. The TR will remain at the heart of the range and is expected to account for around 80 per cent of the UK sales mix.

Key changes include the provision of a USB port and Aux-in socket to connect portable music players to the car’s audio system, and a leather-trimmed flat bottom steering wheel on all models. Heated door mirrors are introduced on T2 grade, with an additional retracting function on TR and SR versions.

Sportier Auris SR
The new Auris SR, powered exclusively by the 1.6-litre Valvematic petrol engine with six-speed manual transmission, incorporates sporty styling inside and out, with new-design five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, dark-tinted rear privacy glass, roof spoiler with integrated stop lamp, darkened headlamp glasses, Tatami sport seat trim and amber-lit analogue dashboard instrumentation. Despite all this additional specification, the SR model costs only £500 more than the TR.

Key equipment features are detailed in the table below: -

T2	TR adds	SR adds
15-inch steel wheels	16-inch alloy wheels	17-inch alloy wheels
4-speaker sound system with radio and CD player	Climate control air conditioning	Dark-tinted rear privacy glass
USB and Aux-in connection	Front fog lights	Rear roof spoiler with integrated stop lamp
Air conditioning	Body colour door handles and mirrors	Darkened headlamp glasses
Electric door mirrors	6-speaker sound system	Amber-lit analogue instrumentation
Flat bottom leather-trimmed steering wheel	Electric, retractable door mirrors	Tatami sport seat trim
Leather gearknob trim	Rear electric windows
Electric front windows
Seven airbags
Optitron instrumentation
Remote central locking

Options
New Kasaba black leather upholstery, with white stitching detail, will be available as an option for TR and SR versions of the new Auris 2010. A Protection Pack is also available, offering rear parking sensors (with a cancellation switch) and a boot liner. Bluetooth connectivity is also available for hands-free use of compatible mobile phones, with voice recognition and a music streaming function.

UK model range, prices, VED and insurance

GRADE	POWERTRAIN	BODY	OTR PRICE	VED BAND	INSURANCE GROUP
T2	Toyota Optimal Drive 1.33 VVT-i 6MT	3-door	£14,463	E	10E
T2	Toyota Optimal Drive 1.33 VVT-i 6MT	5-door	£14,963	E	10E
TR	Toyota Optimal Drive 1.33 VVT-i 6MT	3-door	£15,140	E	10E
TR	Toyota Optimal Drive 1.33 VVT-i 6MT	5-door	£15,640	E	10E
TR	Toyota Optimal Drive 1.4 D-4D 6MT	5-door	£17,195	D	11E
TR	Toyota Optimal Drive 1.4 D-4D 6M/M	5-door	£17,745	D	11E
TR	Toyota Optimal Drive 1.6 Valvematic 6MT	5-door	£15,995	G	15E
TR	Toyota Optimal Drive 1.6 Valvematic 6M/M	5-door	£16,835	F	16E
SR	Toyota Optimal Drive 1.6 Valvematic 6MT	5-door	£16,495	G	16E

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2010 Opel Ampera Electric Car

2010 Opel Ampera Electric Car

Opel To Reveal Ampera Electric Car At Geneva Motor Show

Opel Ampera to feature innovative GM Voltec technology


Opel has announced Ampera as the name of its revolutionary extended-range electric car. The five-door, four-seat Opel Ampera will be revealed at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show (March 5-15).

“With the Ampera, Opel will be the first European automobile manufacturer to provide customers several hundred kilometers of non-stop electric driving,” said Alain Visser, GM Europe Chief Marketing Officer.

GM's ground-breaking electric propulsion technology, called Voltec, operates differently from other advanced propulsion systems. For short trips up to 60 km, the Ampera will run only on lithium-ion battery power charged via a standard 230v outlet. For longer distances, the car will continue to drive on electricity that is generated by a small internal combustion engine.

The Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving schedule of most European customers. For example, approximately 80 percent of German drivers travel less than 50 km daily.

Additional information on the Opel Ampera will be released March 3 at the Geneva Motor Show.

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2010 Audi R8 V10

2010 Audi R8 V10

Audi R8 V8 and V10 Lineup: Quick Reference - USA Data
VERSION DATE: September 10, 2009
INFO IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Key Summary Points
• The R8 sports car continues to be a halo for the Audi brand worldwide.
• Addition of 525 hp / 391 lb-ft R8 V10 enhances the lineup.
• quattro all-wheel drive with rear bias continues to offer superior high performance
advantages in traction, transverse dynamics and stability.
• Audi racing triumph is embodied in the R8 line: FSI direct injection, mid-engine concept, quattro AWD, aluminum Audi Space Frame, high revving powerplants, and dry-sump lubrication.

Market
• Audi R8is uniquely positioned in the market with both highly-advanced and highrevving V8 FSI and V10 FSI direct injection engines, both achieving at least 100 hp/liter with normally aspirated powerplants.
• Audi magnetic ride not only offers high-performance adaptive damping, reacting to the driving situation within milliseconds, it also offers greater comfort at the push of a button for a truly everyday high-performance sports car.

Dynamics for all R8 models
• The R8 is assembled by hand and built with the innovative aluminum Audi Space Frame resulting in light weight, extremely high strength and torsional rigidity, and optimized load distribution. The R8 ASF chassis weighs only 463 lbs.
• Audi magnetic ride with continuously adjustable magnetorheological damping along with “Sport” and “Normal” modes for further driver control.
• quattro® AWD with rear bias
• 6-speed manual or available 6-speed R tronic sequential-manual transmission with S mode and launch control (shift times in the region of 0.1 seconds)
• Mid-engine design creates a very well-balanced ride/handling driving experience
• Dry sump lubrication for uninterrupted high-performance operation
• Advanced air-intake cooling system via front, underbody, and side air intake flow
• Advanced aerodynamics: full flat underbody with extensive underbody diffuser system, automatic deployable rear spoiler with vent for engine compartment R8 Model specifications
• 2010 R8 V8 4.2 FSI quattro:

• FSI direct injection
• 100 hp per liter
• 420 hp @ 7,800 rpm / 317 lb-ft of torque at 4,500-6,000 rpm
• Max rpm: 8,250 rpm
• 0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds for both manual and R tronic
• Top track speed: 187,mph
• quattro rear bias: 90% to 65%
• Fuel economy city/hwy/comb: manual 12/19/15; R tronic 13/18/15
• Curb weights: manual 3,605 lbs.; R tronic 3,616 lbs.
• Weight distribution: 44% front / 56% rear

• 2010 R8 V10 5.2 FSI quattro:
o Also used in the Audi R8 LMS GT3 conforming race car introduced in 2009
o FSI direct injection
o 101 hp per liter
o 525 hp @ 8,000 rpm / 391 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm
o Max rpm: 8,700 rpm
o 0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds for both manual and R tronic
o Top track speed: 196.4 mph
o quattro rear bias: 85% to 70%
o Fuel economy city/hwy/comb: manual 12/20/15; R tronic 13/20/16
o Curb weights: manual 3,715 lbs.; R tronic 3,726 lbs.
o Weight distribution: 44% front / 56% rear

Innovations and available features on all R8 models
• World’s first full LED headlight assembly (R8 5.2 standard, R8 4.2 optional)
• MMI operating logic standard (with central display screen).
• Driver information system with lap-timer
• 140 watt, seven speaker sound system with five-channel amplifier, MP3 CD capability and dual SD memory card slots
• Auxiliary audio (iPod) input
• SIRIUS Satellite Radio®
• 6-disc CD changer
• Audi Space Frame (aluminum frame)
• Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system with manual Sport and Normal modes
• Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone interface
• Audi Parking System – front and rear with rearview camera (5.2 standard, 4.2 optional)
• Navigation system plus with real-time traffic (5.2 standard, 4.2 optional)
• Bang & Olufsen 465W 12-speaker sound system uniquely designed for R8 models (5.2 standard, 4.2 optional)
R8 5.2 exclusive elements
• Aluminum double wishbone suspension system tuned for even higher performance
• High gloss black air inlet grilles, spoiler lip and air outlet grilles at rear
• Single frame grille high-gloss black with vertical and horizontal chrome slats
• Uninterrupted rear center section in high-gloss black
• Flared sideblades
• Flared rocker panels
• Enlarged rear diffuser in high-gloss black
• Oval exhaust pipes
• R8 5.2 specific instrument cluster, gear knob and door handles
Safety/ Security
o Full LED headlights (standard on R8 V10)
o Perforated and ventilated disc brakes, eight piston front, four piston rear
o Full-size dual threshold airbags for driver and front passenger
o Driver and front-passenger seat-mounted head and chest side airbags
o Driver and front-passenger knee airbags
o Rigid body shell
o Side intrusion protection
o Anti-theft vehicle alarm system
o Tool kit
o Seat belts, three-point inertia-reel, for all occupants, with belt tensioners
and force limiters
o Audi backguard system

o Fuel supply is shut off if a crash occurs
o Power central locking system with safety unlock feature if airbag deploys
o Reflectors in all doors
o Locking wheel bolts
o Valet key
Launch Timing
2010 R8 models go on sale in Fall 2009. They are hand assembled in a specialty
factory in Neckarsulm, Germany, the same location as the Audi performance division
quattro GmbH and the Audi aluminum specialty department; this is also where A8
and A6 models are assembled.

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2010 MAZDASPEED3

2010 MAZDASPEED3

THE 2010 MAZDASPEED3: TAKING SIBLING RIVALRY TO THE EXTREME

The performance car for enthusiasts with active lifestyles

It's an unwritten law of nature. When two parents have kids, more often than not, their offspring will be quite different. One will have Dad's eyes, another, Mom's nose. Some will be mild-mannered, happy and always smiling, and others, well - they will be wicked. Enter the all-new 2010 MAZDASPEED3. From a distance, it may look like its MAZDA3 siblings, with its five-point grille and sleek lines, but one minute behind the wheel will prove otherwise.

For 2010, the MAZDASPEED3 blends the five-door functionality of the all-new MAZDA3 5-Door with bolder, more aggressive styling and exhilarating performance to meet the needs of driving enthusiasts with active lifestyles. Carrying forward the award-winning MZR 2.3-liter DISI Turbo engine, the newMAZDASPEED3 builds on the legendary performance of the original while adding a fresh new look and even better handling.

Expressive and Dynamic Design

The design of the all-new MAZDASPEED3 evolves the model's visual identity to create a sportier, more aggressive appearance. The result is a more emotional design that takes the sporty, agile nature of the all-new MAZDA3 5-Door to a new level.

The MAZDASPEED3 is easily distinguished from its siblings. Start at the front, where a lower air dam and round fog lights frame an organic, metallic-black grille. The hood now houses an intercooler scoop to improve charge air cooling, and the front fenders are flared to contain the car's wider tires.

From the side view, the new 18 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheel design is unique, but modeled closely on the deeply sculpted, expressive, and very lightweight 19-inch forged wheels on the RX-8 R3. Sculpted side skirts and a lower stance also give away the MAZDASPEED3's sinister motives. From the rear, larger dual exhaust tips, a rear valance painted the same metallic black as the grille, and a larger, roof-mounted rear wing give it away.

Nagare-inspired design defines the exterior and continues into the cabin, which features color coordination and materials chosen to excite the driver and passengers every time they take a seat. Black is the keynote color employed throughout the interior, while the seats and trim fabric have an organic red graphic design. This MAZDASPEED3-exclusive design is distributed throughout, with red stitching enhancing the sporty interior character on the steering wheel, seats, door trim, shift lever boot, and center armrest.

The dashboard of the new MAZDASPEED3 is designed to give a roomy feel while displaying critical information up high and deep into the dashboard, closer to the driver's field of vision and focal point. The instrument cluster for the all-new MAZDASPEED3 also includes a new LED turbo boost gauge positioned between the meters.

The driver's seat is especially critical in any performance car. Without solid lateral support, a driver loses the focus, control and precision needed to really enjoy driving. The all-new MAZDASPEED3 seats are designed to provide that support without compromising everyday comfort.

Exhilarating Performance

The all-new MAZDASPEED3 continues to use Mazda's award-winning MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo powerplant. Delivering 263 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 280 lb.-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm, it made the original MAZDASPEED3 the most powerful front-drive performance car under $25,000, and remains one of the strongest engines in its class today.

With no need to increase power, the development team focused on harnessing that power more effectively. Engine output itself is more consistent, thanks to the hood-mounted intercooler scoop that not only improves intercooler airflow over the grille-mounted intercooler duct of last-year's car, but also frees up grille space for a fresh-air duct to feed the engine's intake. Breathing cooler air improves efficiency, boosting both real-world power and fuel economy.

The gear ratios in the compact, three-shaft gearbox have also been revised, with 2nd through 5th gear all getting slightly taller to make better use of the engine's abundant torque. The new gear spacing and refined engine calibration are focused on providing more linear, seamless power delivery. The advanced torque management system, which minimizes torque steer by adjusting torque output based on gear position and steering angle, has also been recalibrated. The new gear ratios allow more of the engine's torque to be utilized in the lower gears while still keeping torque steer at a manageable level.

Handles Like a Mazda

The new MAZDASPEED3's body shell benefits from a focused effort at strengthening the most important parts of the structure. The use of high-strength and ultra-high strength steel in the safety structures like bumpers and side impact beams has nearly doubled, making these areas both stronger and lighter. The suspension mounting points all gain rigidity from the use of thicker sheet metal in high-stress areas and extensive use of weld bonding, a hybrid joining technique combining conventional spot welds with structural adhesives. Torsional stiffness around the rear suspension mounts is improved roughly two percent, while deflection around the rear liftgate is reduced nearly 40 percent.

In general, a stiffer structure allows firmer suspension tuning without compromising ride comfort. In the case of the new MAZDASPEED3, that firmer suspension was accomplished with stiffer springs, higher damping rates, and revised mounting points for the front stabilizer bar that reduce bushing deflection and increase the bar's effectiveness. Combined with wider, higher-grip 225/40R18 Dunlop SP Sport 2050 performance tires, the MAZDASPEED3'snew suspension tuning marries unflappable control with a comfortable everyday ride.

Steering feel and response have been improved through more rigid 3-point mounting of the steering rack, compared to the previous 2-point system. The hydraulic power steering pump has also been removed from the engine and is now driven by an electric motor. This electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS) reduces parasitic drag on the engine, lowers power steering fluid temperature, and gives much more flexibility for the development team to dial in steering feel. Rigid high-speed steering feel can now be accomplished without suffering heavy steering at low speeds

Brake feel in hard braking has been improved through the upgrade of the brake assist from mechanical to a new electronically-controlled system. Brake assist shortens stopping distance in panic-stop situations by applying full brake pressure during the moment of hesitation that most drivers exhibit in the instant after first hitting the brakes. The new electronically-controlled system is better at differentiating between true panic-stop situations and, for example, braking hard for turn 11 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Features and Options - Everything You Want, Nothing You Don't Need

The 2010 MAZDASPEED3 is loaded with all the goodies a driving enthusiast wants, but without anything that would add undue weight. Standard features and equipment include variable intermittent windshield wipers, roof-mounted aerodynamic antenna, illuminated vanity mirrors, electroluminescent gauges, aluminum pedals, MAZDASPEED -branded black/red cloth seats, door trim, interior trim, floor mats, scuff plates and black/red decoration panel; and dual-zone climate control. An available MAZDASPEED3 Tech Package offers advanced keyless entry, push-button start, a compact full-color navigation system, Sirius satellite radio with six months of free service, a perimeter alarm, six CD changer, and BOSE® Centerpoint® surround sound - a five-channel surround system engineered cooperatively with BOSE® that enhances the listening experience thanks to a digital amplifier, noise cancellation technology and 10, strategically placed, premium speakers. Because the weight and structural penalties would compromise the pure driving experience, the MAZDASPEED3 is not available with a moonroof option.

The MAZDASPEED3 is the third model in the 2010 MAZDA3 lineup, joining the MAZDA3 5-door, which made its North American debut at the North American International Auto Show earlier this year, and the 4-door sedan, which made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico through more than 850 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

2010 MAZDASPEED3 AT A GLANCE:

Exterior

• Design based on the all-new MAZDA3 5-Door, evolved for a sportier, more aggressive appearance
• New air intake to optimize intercooler efficiency
• Front fender and front bumper designs exclusive to MAZDASPEED
• The front grille and lower bumper sections share the same black metallic paint finish
• Wedge-shaped, curving character lines on the side panels and side under spoiler for a lower-looking center of gravity
• New, large floating rear spoiler
• New 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels with the same three-dimensional design theme as the Mazda RX-8 R3 wheels

Interior

• Driver-oriented dashboard design gives a roomy, wrap-around, sporty feel
• New tachometer with red MAZDASPEED logo
• New LED turbo boost gauge between the driver meters
• Semi-bucket front seats with superior fit
• Seat upholstery in black base color with a red graphic design and red stitching
• Black interior color with an organic red graphic design throughout the cabin and red stitching for the steering wheel, shift boot, door trim, center console

Powertrain

• Acclaimed MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo producing high power of 263 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, and 280 ft.-lb. of torque at 3,000 rpm
• In-cylinder cooling effect from direct injection realizes ca. 10 percent more torque compared to conventional-intake turbo engines
• Top speed of 155 mph
• The world's first single-nanotechnology catalytic converter helps to reduce the amount of precious metals needed
• Advanced boost pressure control suppresses sudden torque peaks for linear torque development
• Left and right drive shafts optimized to minimize torque steer
• Torque-sensing conical limited-slip differential (LSD) standard
• Specially-designed, 6-speed manual transmission with wider gear ratio than before
• Triple-cone synchronizers for first, second and third gears and a double-cone synchronizer for fourth gear for optimized gearshift operation
• Low-viscosity transmission fluid reduces shift effort when the engine is cold

Chassis & Safety

• Special reinforcements inside the front cowl member gussets and a large tunnel member for increased body stiffness
• Modified coil spring rates for MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension
• Larger diameter stabilizers with longer mount spans achieve greater roll linearity
• Special dampers with increased damping strength contribute to higher roll stiffness
• Now three highly rigid steering gear mount bushings instead of two used on the previous model for improved response to steering wheel action
• New wider Dunlop 18-inch tires with improved grip, more rigid sidewalls and damping strength for more direct steering feel and a stronger one-with-the-car feel
• Electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS)
• Large diameter 12.6-inch ventilated front disc brakes and 11-inch rear solid discs, 8+9-inch tandem brake booster and 1-inch large diameter master cylinder for powerful and stable braking
• Newly-introduced electronic brake assist added to four-wheel ABS and DSC as standard equipment

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