Mercedes-Benz pr,esents the luxury van, Viano VisJuly 29, 2011 - With the Viano Vision Pearl showcar, which will be presented at this year’s International Motor Show n September, Mercedes-Benz demonstrates what is possible in the van sector. A full leather interior in white/grey, wood floor, brushed aluminium trim, chromatically tinting windows and the Bang & Olufsen high-end sound­ system “BeoSound Viano” make a journey in the Viano Vision Pearl a memorable experience for up to six occupants.

The design concept is takes its inspiration from that of modern sporting yachts, with the theme of travel as an experience. The onboard W-LAN connectivity caters for the needs of modern, mobile individuals. For ther exterior design, Mercedes-Benz has for the first time in the van sector used the paint finish “magno pearl grey”, a matt, pebble-grey colour. The stylistically revised front end of the Viano with its integrated LED daytime running lamps gives the van a more sporty, powerful appearance.

The way is the goal: driving experience meeting the highest expectations

Mobility is nowadays more experience-oriented. Most people no longer travel somewhere just to relax and enjoy themselves. Car or motorcycle tours, cruises, sailing trips or trek­king ­tours – the travelling time itself becomes part of the experience. Mercedes-Benz reflects this trend with the Viano Vision Pearl. “We want to show what can be done with the Viano. The Viano Vision Pearl is not merely a functional van, but also a stylishly designed living space,” says Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “We have created a vehicle which combines generous spaciousness with an impressive design. Anybody who attaches importance to stress-free and at the same time stylish travel will find that the Viano Vision Pearl is the ideal companion. The interior design and technical features make the Viano Vision Pearl the S-Class among vans.”

Generous spaciousness combined with impressive interior design

The interior of the Viano Vision Pearl is not so much a functional space for passenger transport, but rather a living space

The name Vision Pearl emphasises both the design concept and the repositioning of the Viano: the Viano of the future is the perfect travelling companion, and in this version it conveys a modern, maritime theme.

Impressive listening experience with Bang & Olufsen “BeoSound Viano” high-end sound system

The Viano Vision Pearl is rounded off by the Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Mercedes-Benz has worked together with this world-renowned manufacturer of audio systems since and integrates the high-end sound systems into passenger cars such as the S-Class.

Thanks to the very high output of 1320 watts (the S-Class has 1200 watts) and 18 integrated, specially hand-built loudspeakers, the vehicle occupants are treated to an outstanding listeningion Pearl

Honda to launch, new Civic at ,Frankfurt Motor ShowHonda will launch the new Civic at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Developed specifically for the European market, the Civic will be offered exclusively as a five-door hatchback and will compete in the C-segment. It will reach European showrooms in early 2012.

In the build-up to the reveal of the new Civic, Honda is releasing a series of short form films detailing its development. The first of these focuses on ride & handling.

New Honda Civic : Ride & Handling - Two generations ahead

The ride and handling of the new Honda Civic has been developed in Europe. Working closely with European colleagues and external experts, the Japanese development team analysed the current Civic’s performance. This led to a focus on improving the ride quality of the new Civic, while retaining the sporty handling of the current model.

Honda’s engineers were conscious that European roads are some of the most varied in the world, mixing fast highways with poorly surfaced country lanes. Initial testing was carried out at the Research and Development facilities in Japan, before the development team transferred to Europe to finalise the car.

“Every time we visited Europe during the development of the car, we achieved significant improvements in the ride and handling, tuning the car for the local demands,” says Kazuo Sunaoshi, Development Leader - Chassis. “The new Civic is not just an evolution. In terms of ride quality, we have taken a major step forwards, equivalent to two generations of development.”

Torsion beam rear suspension system

The new Civic retains the largest cabin space within the C-segment by utilising the compact torsion beam rear suspension from the current Civic. To further improve body control and stability at high speeds, the wall thickness of the torsion beam and the diameter of the stabiliser bar have been increased. In addition, overall ride comfort and handling have been developed through the introduction of new fluid-filled compliance bushings to the rear suspension system.

New Twingo is the first mass production vehicle to be inspired by the Renault brand’s new design identity. Among the changes are its front end which includes this stylistic renewal, while on the bonnet, the Renault logo has been enlarged and centred in a more vertical position.New Twingo is the first mass production vehicle to be inspired by the Renault brand’s new design identity. Among the changes are its front end which includes this stylistic renewal, while on the bonnet, the Renault logo has been enlarged and centred in a more vertical position.New Twingo will be presented at Renault’s Press conference at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13th by Carlos Tavares, Chief Operating Officer

alif. : July 20, 2009 - The all-new provocative 2010 ZDX four-door sports coupe will arrive at Acura dealerships with dramatic styling, outstanding performance and the latest in advanced technology. The segment bending ZDX features stunning coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility. Staying true to the prototype model that debuted at the 2009 New York Auto Show in April, the production ZDX will feature the key design highlights of a panoramic glass roof, hidden rear door handles and bold fender flares.

long with head-turning styling, the ZDX will boast outstanding performance from its 3.7-liter V-6 engine mated to an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 all-aluminum engine will generate 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque for immediate acceleration response, outstanding low- and mid-range torque and superior high-rpm power. The 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters gives the ZDX excellent acceleration while also enhancing fuel economy. Standard on the ZDX is Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. The SH-AWD® system expands the ZDX’s appeal by providing outstanding handling as well as superior all-season capability. Standard on the ZDX are 19-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels; the largest standard wheel in the Acura lineup.

[ACURA ZDX .. click to enlarge]

Inside, the ZDX exhibits the highest levels of refinement and sophistication. Every ZDX interior will feature a hand-stitched leather dash, panels and sculpted center console. The rich leather appointments give the ZDX a warm and inviting feeling while creating an intimate cockpit for the driver and passenger.

The ZDX’s flexible utility enables customers to have great utility coupled with sleek styling. The ZDX can seat up to five adults while maintaining a generous amount of cargo space behind the second row of seats. The cargo area can also be expanded to accommodate longer objects, such as golf bags, by removing side panels in the cargo-compartment sidewalls. As an added bonus, there is an integrated under-floor storage area.

When the ZDX goes on sale this winter, customers will have the choice of three distinct trim levels: ZDX, ZDX with Technology Package and the ultra premium, ZDX with Advance Package. Like all Acura models, the ZDX will come generously equipped from the start. The panoramic glass roof with moveable sunshades, hand-stitched leather interior, HandsFreeLink™ Bluetooth® connectivity, power tailgate, and a high powered audio system with CD player, AM/FM/XM radio and USB audio interface with iPod® integration are all standard feature

cura TSX Sport Wagon 2011 at New York Auto Show 2010: the North American market version of Europe’s Honda Accord Tourer that will be sold here in the States as the 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon. “The TSX Sport Wagon represents a smart choice for those seeking a vehicle with utility,” said John Mendel, Acura’s executive vice president of sales. “It’s practical, fun to drive, luxurious and technically advanced, all while achieving an outstanding estimated highway fuel economy rating of 30 miles per gallon.”

Along with an increased rear cargo space over the saloon, the TSX Sport Wagon also features a removable side panel to accommodate wider items such as golf clubs and integrated under-floor bins for hidden storage.

Whereas the sedan variant of the TSX is offered with a choice of 201HP 2.4-liter inline-four or a 280HP 3.5-liter V6, the station wagon will be launched exclusively with the four-pot hooked up to a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters.

The 2011 TSX Sport Wagon join Acura’s lineup late this fall with pricing to be announced later in the year.

All-New 2010 Acura ZDX Four-Door Sports Coupe Will Feature Dramatic Styling, Outstanding Performance and Advanced Technology

All-new Acura model on-sale this winter

The all-new provocative 2010 ZDX four-door sports coupe will arrive at Acura dealerships with dramatic styling, outstanding performance and the latest in advanced technology. The segment bending ZDX features stunning coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility. Staying true to the prototype model that debuted at the 2009 New York Auto Show in April, the production ZDX will feature the key design highlights of a panoramic glass roof, hidden rear door handles and bold fender flares.

Along with head-turning styling, the ZDX will boast outstanding performance from its 3.7-liter V-6 engine mated to an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 all-aluminum engine will generate 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque for immediate acceleration response, outstanding low- and mid-range torque and superior high-rpm power. The 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters gives the ZDX excellent acceleration while also enhancing fuel economy. Standard on the ZDX is Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. The SH-AWD® system expands the ZDX’s appeal by providing outstanding handling as well as superior all-season capability. Standard on the ZDX are 19-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels; the largest standard wheel in the Acura lineup.

Though the concept car was shown at the New York Auto Show earlier this year, the company has now officially released the pictures along with a press release. The pictures of the actual car are not radically different from the concept pictures. It is only that the headlights, tail lamps and a few details in the lower front fascia are somewhat different.

The ZDX has the same 300-hp 3.7-liter V6 engine as in the RL and TL, with Acura’s first six-speed automatic transmission, and the torque vectoring Super Handling-All Wheel Drive. The crossover will most likely compete with BMW’s new 5 series GT. The price of this car has not yet been released and we will only learn of it when it enters the market.

2010 Geneva Motor Show, is an extensive AC Schnitzer aerodynamic conversion on the BMW X1. The conversion aims to effectively create an expressive styling of the universal sporting ambitions of the vehicle in the overall concept, as well as represents the latest welcome addition to the comDealing with power and drivetrain, AC Schnitzer offers an upgrading on both the sDrive and xDrive versions of the BMW X1, some to mention are the 2.0 d, 1.8 d, and the xDrive23d diesel engine. To harmonize, the X1 engine bay venting is optimized by the AC Schnitzer Bonnet Vents, enhanced further with chromed centre webs available as an option. The AC Schnitzer also includes capacity logo for the engine styling with or without performance upgrading, and suspension spring kit with aluminum strut brace.

The interior styling of the BMW X1 by AC Schnitzer includes silver “Exclusiv” carbon interior trim, illuminated leather gear knob, aluminium gear knobs with or without digital gear display, “Black Line” aluminium cover for the i-Drive system controller, aluminium handbrake handle and pedal set, foot rests and velours foot mats.

For finishing, a set of attractive AC Schnitzer Type IV wheels in silver or in BiColor in 18, 19 or 20 inch, together with the Type VI rim in 18?, complete the range available for the BMW X1. The AC Schnitzer also offers a chromed “Racing” tailpipe trim which is available for all models, and in development is the AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer for the petrol X1 xDrive 28ipact vehicles segment by AC Schnitzer.

ing experience in the premium compact segment. It expands and enhances the range of BMW X models by yet another innovative vehicle concept.With its agile, versatile and modern character, the BMW X1 guarantees a new driv

The BMW X1 lineup will start with the xDrive20d, which is powered by a 177-hp diesel engine. Second is the xDrive23d, which is powered boy 204-hp turbodiesel. The xDrive28i gasoline model is powered by a 3.0L 6-cylinder making 231-hp and a 199 lb-ft of torque. It will be the only model offered in North America.
With its agile, versatile and modern character, the BMW X1 guarantees a new driving experience in the premium compact segment. It expands and enhances the range of BMW X models by yet another innovative vehicle concept.
• Through its body design the BMW X1 demonstrates self-confident elegance, a versatile and sporting character, as well as spontaneous agility. For the first time the features and characteristics of a BMW X model are carried over in modern style into a unique vehicle in the premium compact segment.
• The interior of the BMW X1 is characterised by clear function and trendsetting, modern style. The driver orientation so typical of BMW is additionally accentuated by the forward-pushing lines within the cockpit area. Sophisticated materials and natural colours accentuate the youthful and dynamic flair of the vehicle.
• The elevated seating position, a generous feeling of space, the wide range of storage options and the variable interior offer ideal conditions for enjoying the BMW X1 both in an urban environment and beyond, with agility, spontaneity and versatility of the highest calibre. Three full-sized seats at the rear offer generous space and freedom of movement. The rear-seat backrest is adjustable for angle and folds down in a 40/20/20 split. Luggage compartment capacity may be increased from 420 litres/14.7 cu ft to a maximum of 1,350 litres/47.3 cu ft. An electrically operated Panorama glass roof is available as an option.
• Modern drivetrain technology gives the BMW X1 superior performance and supreme efficiency all in one. Depending on the model variant, the driver benefits from powerful, economical and low-emission gasoline and diesel engines, BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics features including Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop, and a gearshift point indicator. The BMW X1 sDrive18d with rear-wheel drive and average fuel consumption to the EU standard of 5.2 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 54.3 mpg imp) and a CO2 rating of 136 grams/ kilometre offers the highest standard of efficiency all round.
• The cutting-edge suspension technology featured in the BMW X1 comprises a double-joint thrust bar or, respectively, an aluminium double-joint tiebar axle at the front and a five-arm rear axle in lightweight steel, high-precision power steering, high-performance brakes, Dynamic Stability Control including Dynamic Traction Control and, as an option, Performance Control acting on the brakes for particularly dynamic driving behaviour.
• The BMW X1 features a special body structure designed from the outset for maximum occupant safety. Standard features include three-point inertia-reel seat belts all round, frontal and side airbags as well as head airbags at the side, adaptive Brake Lights and daytime driving lights. Xenon headlights, Adaptive Headlights and a High-Beam Assistant are all available as an option.
• In conjunction with the optional Business and Professional navigation systems, the BMW X1 is equipped with the latest generation of BMW iDrive including a Controller and direct selection buttons on the centre console, a Control Display harmoniously integrated in the instrument panel, and favourite buttons beneath the control panel for

While you may have already read a thing or two about BMW’s new compression ignition offerings, you may not have heard all the details, and you may have some questions. I sure did, and I did my best to answer them here. Get coffee, go read, see huge gallery.

Cars:
2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d, from here on to be known as BMW X5d. The vehicle was surprisingly stripped, even without the common premium package. It had about 500 miles on the odometer.
443 320×240 dsc 0949 Experiencing The New Diesel Powered BMWs. 2009 BMW 335d. This car was also pretty much an entry-level model with heated seats being the only option. Keep in mind that like the 335i, the 335d comes standard with a lot of things that are optional on 328i, such as power seats.

Visually, the biggest differences between the diesels and their gasoline counterparts are badges. On the 335d the intercooler and twin exhaust pipes will have you thinking 335i, while the front mounted intercooler is a new thing on the X5d. Biggest difference inside is the 5000rpm redline in both cars.ike on most new cars today, open the hood and you’ll see nothing. The engine is a three-liter, aluminum (yes, aluminum), DOHC, 24-valve, common-rail direct-injected, in-line six with a 16.5:1 compression ratio. The engine features variable intake manifold and double-VANOS valve control. All of that is supplemented by a pair sequential, differently sized turbos. Big air-to-air intercooler is located within the front bumper cover of both cars. The engine produces 265hp at 4200rpm, but more importantly 425lb-ft at a low 1750rpm. Unlike a traditional diesel there are no glow plugs, as the direct injection system has the ability to start a dead cold engine all by itself.

What the engine does have, as does just about every other new diesel, is urea injection. Here is how urea injection works: most of the diesel soot gets trapped in the particulate filter located just behind the exhaust manifold, where it eventually burns up. The stuff that gets through and/or the burned remnants (NO/NO2), get trapped in a secondary catalytic converter known as the SCR catalyst (selective catalytic reaction). When the urea is injected into the SCR, a chemical reaction occurs which generates ammonia (NH3). The ammonia in turn reacts with NO/NO2, converting it into nitrogen (N2) and water vapor (H2O). Got it? Chemistry lesson is over, class dismissed.

457 320×240 tank Experiencing The New Diesel Powered BMWs. Because urea freezes at 12 degrees Fahrenheit, the cars are equipped with two urea tanks: a small active tank which is heated, and a larger passive tank which is designed to expand once the urea freezes. In the X5d the passive tank is located under the hood and the active tank is located near the transmission. In the 335d, both tanks are located where once a full-size spare tire1 lived (RIP). The tanks hold enough urea to last between scheduled oil changes.

When you’re running low on urea, you’ll get a message on the dash and an estimated remaining travel distance. Each time you start, you’ll be getting dash warning, and if you keep ignoring them, eventually the car will warn you that it is the last time is starts. If you shut it off, you better be at a dealership or calling the toll-free number written on your “tool kit“2. This setup was mandated by the EPA and without it, the diesels would not be allowed for sale in the U.S. Worry not, as soon you’ll be able to buy urea at any gas station. All urea designed for diesels is the same, so the one from your Mercedes dealer will work too.

Living in New England begs obvious questions – what happens in the winter? How long will my battery last with that heated tank? Does it stay heated the whole time? No, the active tank is automatically heated once the doors are unlocked or opened, and by the time you sit down and make yourself comfortable, the engine is ready to start, in all temperatures. While diesels of the past had huge batteries to ignite the glow plugs, the batteries on the diesels are the same size as on their gasoline drinking brothers.

Transmissions, etc:
Both, the X5d and 335d, are only available with a six-speed automatic transmission. The gear ratios are the same for both cars, but differential gearing is taller on the X5d. BMW says that they do not have a manual transmission that can manage the torque of the diesel engine. The 335d comes in rear-wheel-drive flavor only, and the X5 comes only with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Like all non-M cars, neither vehicle is available with a limited slip differential. There is no low-range on the X5, and I wouldn’t venture far off-pavement in it.

452 320×240 dsc 0975 Experiencing The New Diesel Powered BMWs. Sights and Sounds:
The diesels are not distinguishable at first sight, only once you hear them start up and see the badges do you say to yourself “oh, it’s the diesel”. Once at idle, the engines are so quiet that standing more than twenty feet back you wouldn’t know which X5 you’re looking at. When driving, only under full power will you notice the real change in sound; the diesel engine is louder and moves slower than the gasoline engine. What you will not notice is the rate of your acceleration, this thing boogies!!

441 320×240 dsc 0940 Experiencing The New Diesel Powered BMWs. Driving:
Punch the 335d off the line and you will see a flashing traction control light on your dash, because the tires will break loose under anything more than average acceleration. It is not a kick-in-the-butt type of violent acceleration however, you won’t get thrown back into the seat but rather you get steadily pressed into it, much like a passenger jet taking off. Unless you have lived with diesels or V12s this will take a little getting used to but your smile will grow wider each time. Highway acceleration in both cars feels smooth and almost uneventful, it will make you wonder if the speedometer is properly calibrated.

439 320×240 dsc 0933 Experiencing The New Diesel Powered BMWs. The 335d tester looks like it’s wearing a well tailored dark suit, and with the smaller non-sport wheels, it is giving off an impression of mild-mannered conservatism. That suit, however, is worn by a bad wolf. Some will believe that you have actually purchased this car for its excellent gas mileage and legendary diesel durability but what you really got with the 335d is complete sleeper. The original E28 M5 was called a wolf in sheep’s clothing, but today’s E60 M5, with its huge quad exhaust pipes, vents, and various bulges makes no secret of what it is. This may upset some a few souls, but the wolf is dead! Long live the new wolf, now in a slick dark suit. Yes, the 335d that good, and there is nothing on the market quite like it.

456 320×240 itbelongs Experiencing The New Diesel Powered BMWs. The X5d was not as transparent in its personality (or two) as the 335d. Most of it can be attributed to the extra 1400 pounds that the engine has to pull around. Immediately off the line the X5d didn’t have the pull of the 335d, but once up to cruising speed it pulled like freight train. Highway acceleration and engine flexibility being its strong points, it made overtaking uneventful and easy. Driving the X5d around, I couldn’t help but feel like I was missing something. It was similar to being given a trivial assignment and an abundance of resources to complete it. The X5d felt as though it was not being challenged, if it could talk it would say “c’mon, attach that trailer, slap on the E30 and le,s head for Lime Rock!, While the tow ratin,g of all X5‘s is the same, at 6000 pounds, there is no doub,t in my mind that

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