2010 MERCURY Milan

2010 MERCURY Milan

Mercury Milan

The Mercury Milan builds on a strong foundation of quality and reliability, adding to the mix for the 2010 model year an all-new hybrid model, more fuel-efficient gasoline powertrain options, class-exclusive technologies and a more refined, sophisticated design.

"The Milan has been a strong part of the Mercury lineup since its initial launch and has helped attract more consumers to dealer showrooms," said John Felice, general manager, Ford, Lincoln Mercury Marketing. "For sophisticated consumers looking for a stylish hybrid, the Mercury Milan now offers them the most fuel-efficient hybrid sedan in its class."

Chief designer Darrell Behmer and his team had the advantage of working from a vehicle that's been lauded by consumers and consumer groups. "Our approach was to build upon the Milan's strengths - to improve rather than reinvent," Behmer said. "From a design standpoint, we wanted to clarify the design, making it cleaner and more modern."

The changes to the exterior design were focused on the grille, fenders, hood, and front and rear fascias. The chin was pulled forward and the fascia was pulled down to give the 2010 Mercury Milan a wider, sportier look. Those changes as well as substantial underbody work made for a cleaner, more aerodynamic car.

With all models, the interior design team created a more contemporary, technical look with metallic new finishes on the instrument panel that carry through on the center console, doors and steering wheel. The all new instrument panel is finished with a soft upper and lower skin and has much less hard plastic than Japanese competitors. A redesigned leather wrapped steering wheel with form fitting palm swells, and new shifter, and wrapped and padded armrests have been added, increasing the Milan's sportiness and comfort at all key driver touch points.

The seats received a makeover, as well. The seat contour has been revised, with more side support and overall a more comfortable seat with smoother bolsters and more-textural inserts. The seats also feature contrasting stitching and leather inserts to give the Mercury Milan even more attitude, befitting this mid-size sedan.

The gauge cluster has been designed with day time backlighting, a black lens, and 3-D elements to create a high tech jewel-like appearance, similar to a fine watch. Drivers will be greeted by a new "welcome" sequence that makes the Mercury Milan seem as if it's coming to life.

Gauge needles sweep back and forth as the lighting and new chimes come on. The ambient lighting system offers the option of illuminating the front and rear footwells and front cup holders.

The two-tone look on the interior continues as a Mercury Milan signature, with satin-aluminum accents and a wood finish around the center stack. The Milan features Dark Charcoal Black, Medium Light Stone and Camel as interior choices through the Premier Series, which includes embossed leather.

An improved seat design with a new perforation pattern has been added as well. The seat contour itself was revised, with more side support to help create a softer seat overall.


All-new hybrid model
For the 2010 model year, the Mercury Milan adds an all-new hybrid model. The Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid join the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids, doubling both the size and volume of Ford's hybrid lineup.

"Offering consumers more fuel-efficient vehicle choices, including improving and increasing our hybrid vehicle offerings and improving our high volume gasoline powertrains, is part of Ford's broad plan to deliver technology solutions for affordable fuel economy for millions," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president for Global Product Development.

"With the new Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid, we are now able to offer even better range of travel on battery power at a greater speed, thanks to a more efficient, seamless transition between the battery-powered motor and gasoline-driven engine," he said. "These new hybrids will exceed expectations on all fronts - fuel efficiency, comfort, convenience and drivability."

The Ford Hybrid team has developed a powertrain system that combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver the optimal experience for the customer in terms of driving performance and fuel economy.

Additionally, the propulsion system for the Mercury Milan Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid transitions between gas and electric power and back more efficiently and seamlessly.

The overall system upgrade allows the Mercury Milan Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid to operate longer at higher speeds in electric mode. The hybrid vehicles can operate up to 47 mph in pure electric mode, approximately twice as fast as some competitors. Plus, the city driving range on a single tank of gas is expected to be more than 700 miles.

The next-generation hybrid system features:
• New 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (155 horsepower/136 lb.-ft. of torque) running the proven Atkinson cycle mated to an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission or e-CVT.
• Intake Variable Cam Timing (iVCT), which allows the vehicle to more seamlessly transition from gas to electric mode and vice-versa. The spark and cam timing are varied according to the engine load to optimize efficiency and emissions.
• Enhanced electronic throttle control reduces airflow on shutdowns, reducing fueling needs on restarts.
• A wide-band lambda sensor analyzes the air-fuel ratio and adjusts the lean/rich mixture accordingly to keep the system in balance and to minimize emissions.
• A new smaller, lighter nickel-metal hydride battery has been optimized to produce 20 percent more power. Improved chemistry allows the battery to be run at a higher temperature and it is cooled using cabin air.
• An added variable voltage converter boosts the voltage to the traction battery to operate the motor and generator more efficiently.
• A new high-efficiency converter provides 14 percent increased output to accommodate a wider array of vehicle features.
• Smarter climate control system monitors cabin temperature and only runs the gas engine as needed to heat the cabin; it also includes an electric air conditioning compressor to further minimize engine use and maximize comfort.
• The regenerative brake system captures the energy normally lost through friction in braking and stores it. Nearly 94 percent energy recovery is achieved by first delivering full regenerative braking followed by friction brakes during city driving.
• A simulator brake actuation system dictates brake actuation and delivers improved brake pedal feel compared to the previous generation braking system.

"Because our hybrid can run at a much higher speed in electric mode, you can do so much more in city-driving situations," said Gil Portalatin, Hybrid Applications Manager. "Under the right conditions, you can drive in your neighborhood or mall parking lots without using a drop of gasoline."

The Mercury Milan Hybrid also offers drivers a way to be more connected to the hybrid driving experience thanks to Ford's SmartGauge with EcoGuide, a unique instrument cluster execution that helps coach them on how to optimize performance of their hybrid.

SmartGauge with EcoGuide features two, high-resolution, full-color liquid crystal display (LCD) screens on either side of the analog speedometer that can be configured to show different levels of information, including fuel and battery power levels, average and instant miles-per-gallon. Growing leaves and vines track and reward the driver's efficiency.

EcoGuide uses a multi-layered approach to coach the driver to maximum fuel efficiency. A tutorial mode built into the display that helps the driver learn about the instrument cluster and the hybrid in a whimsical way that does not overpower.

For instance, drivers can choose one of four data screens to choose the information level displayed during their drives. They are:
• Inform: Fuel level and battery charge status
• Enlighten: Adds electric vehicle mode indicator and tachometer
• Engage: Adds engine output power and battery output power
• Empower: Adds power to wheels, engine pull-up threshold and accessory power consumption

All levels can show instant fuel economy, fuel economy history, odometer, engine coolant temperature, what gear the car is in and trip data (trip fuel economy, time-elapsed fuel economy and miles to empty). The engine coolant temperature indicator turns green when engine conditions are warm enough to allow engine pull-down.

Several other elements help differentiate the Mercury Milan Hybrid from its gas-powered sibling, including unique hybrid "road and leaf" badging on both sides and the rear of the vehicle; unique 17-inch, eight-spoke wheels; eco-friendly seat fabric made from post-industrial 100 percent recycled materials; and a standard 110-volt power outlet.

More horsepower, better fuel economy
Both the inline four-cylinder and V-6 engines are upgraded, with the four-cylinder engine increased to 2.5 liters and the 3-liter V-6 increasing its horsepower rating from 221 to 240. Each engine improves fuel economy as well, up to 4 or 5 mpg depending on the model.

The 2.5-liter I-4 engine, which improved its 0-60 mph time by more than 1 second to achieve best-in-class performance, is available with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, up from five speeds.

"The gear ratios and the overall span of the transmissions allow us to have a more-efficient shift schedule," said Matt Hettenhouse, powertrain team leader for the Milan. The first gear can be made a little deeper, which provides smoother acceleration. At the top end, a higher gear allows the engine to run slower in highway conditions, which also aids fuel economy.

The innovative Easy Fuel™ capless fuel filler system also is standard. This industry-exclusive feature helps to reduce evaporative emissions that create smog and global warming. When fueling is completed, and the fuel pump nozzle is removed, the system automatically seals shut.

Better handling in a quieter, more-comfortable ride
Bringing a premium driving experience to the Mercury Milan was one of the goals for the team. For the 2010 model, strides were made in steering and handling, turning circle (better by about 1 foot) and an improved brake pedal feel. Upgraded 17-inch painted aluminum wheels are another performance and appearance enhancement standard on the Premier.

The 2010 Mercury Milan team also took a look at how to improve the comfort of the car. "We made a major improvement on interior quietness," said Chief Engineer J.D. Shanahan. Hood insulators, inner and outer dash absorbers, new carpet, revised ceiling baffles, additional sound deadening in the trunk, new interior material and new headliner material are among the improvements made.

In addition, improved body and door sealing defends and improves upon Milan's best-in-class standing in wind noise. Reductions in wind noise and road noise gives Mercury Milan drivers the level of quiet luxury they demand.

With design refinements to the exterior creating a sportier look as well as upgraded technology and materials inside, the 2010 Mercury Milan expands on the value package that makes it a leader in the mid-size car segment.

Staying connected

New technology features available on the 2010 Mercury Milan include:
• Blind Spot Information System (BLISTM) with Cross Traffic Alert, which can help provide extra confidence to drivers in parking lots by alerting drivers sooner of nearby traffic while backing out. It uses two multiple beam radar modules, which are packaged in the rear quarter panels. The radar detects moving objects within a 65-foot range from either side of the vehicle. The radar identifies when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding side-view mirror providing a warning that a vehicle is approaching. An audible alert is sounded as well.
• SYNC: The voice-activated hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft. The system fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone and music selection capabilities - plus new 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report provided with no monthly fees.
•      o 911 Assist: When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, the system is ready to assist in placing a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag-deploying accident. The key advantage of SYNC 911 Assist is speed, as calls are placed directly to local 911 operators.
•      o Vehicle Health Report (VHR): SYNC gathers relevant information from the major vehicle control modules and packages diagnostic data into a usable format in a matter of minutes. That data packet is sent to Ford via an 800-number automatically dialed using the customer's paired and operable mobile phone.
• Voice-Activated Navigation, which integrates several functions including voice recognition destination entry, climate control and SIRIUS satellite radio into one easy-to-use system, displaying them on an 8-inch touch-screen display. The navigation system's text-to-speech function calls out street names while in route to a destination and reads incoming text messages when the system is linked to SYNC. The integrated DVD player is capable of reading CD-Audio, MP3 CDs, DVD, DVD-Audio and DVD-ROM (for digital map updates). A music jukebox function stores more than 150 hours of music. The screen even can be customized with personal photos.
• SIRIUS Travel Link™, an industry-leading technology that, when combined with the voice-activated navigation system will provide users with real-time traffic data with accident and incident information, coast-to-coast weather data including current conditions and five-day forecasts, and fuel price information for over 120,000 gas stations. Travel Link also offers sports scores and schedules and a listing of more than 4,500 movie theaters with movie times, theater addresses, movie synopses and more.
• Reverse Camera System, which mounts a small camera on the spoiler that is activated when Mercury Milan is shifted into reverse, giving the driver a clear view behind the vehicle.
• The video image is displayed in the optional navigation screen on Milans equipped with that option or in the self-dimming rearview mirror vehicles without navigation.

2013 MASERATI Kubang

2013 MASERATI Kubang

Maserati Kubang

Maserati Kubang - a new Maserati vehicle in the sport luxury SUV segment will represent a natural direction for the company to enlarge its product range and strengthen its presence in the sport luxury market.

For some reason SUVs today never seem to offer the kind of uplifting driving pleasure and luxury atmosphere that are two givens of today's high-end sports and luxury cars. And this is precisely what Maserati set out to do with its new sport luxury SUV concept that is being unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show today, the forerunner of the future Maserati range, creating at once discontinuity by entering a new segment, and continuity by maintaining the integrity of Maserati's DNA.

The idea of a sport luxury SUV is naturally not totally new to Maserati. Many will remember the Kubang concept that was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in 2003. At a time in which few other brands were going in the direction of a sport luxury SUV, Maserati was already thinking to build one.

Today potential synergies with sister brand Jeep - a brand that 70 years ago created a new segment of the market and is today a leader of this very segment - are the important catalyst for Maserati's own interpretation of a sport luxury SUV. And it seems only appropriate to give the model that we are unveiling today the very name of the concept that opened the way: Maserati Kubang.

The essence and all major system components of the Maserati sport luxury SUV will unmistakably be Maserati: style, engine, suspensions, brakes, handling and performance will all be 100% Maserati in picture-perfect continuity with the brand's core values of sportiness, style, elegance, luxury, performance and craftsmanship.

The distinctive Maserati style that makes the Kubang immediately recognisable as a true Maserati has been created by the Maserati Style Center headed by Lorenzo Ramaciotti.

New-generation high-tech Maserati proprietary engines will be designed in Modena by Paolo Martinelli - Head of the Maserati Powertrain Department and for nearly 30 years at Ferrari, where he also served as engine chief of the Formula One racing team - and will be produced in Maranello by Ferrari.

An AT 8 speed automatic transmission and specific performance settings such as suspensions, brakes, steering will be exclusively developed in Modena for the Maserati sport luxury SUV by the Maserati Product Development Department.

Until today Maserati has been producing sedans, coupes and two- or four-seater convertibles. Whether we named them Quattroporte, GranTurismo or GranCabrio - or, before them, Ghibli, Mistral, Bora or Indy - their common denominator rested in two words: sportiness and luxury. Times have changed: sportiness and luxury today don't have just one definition. They can also take the form of a very dynamic looking and high performing sport luxury SUV.

2012 45th Anniversary Chevy Camaro SS

BLACK TIE CELEBRATION’

Chevrolet celebrates 45 years of Camaro production with this very special, limited-production 2012 45^th Anniversary model.  It’s a ‘black tie’ celebration because each anniversary model is custom painted ‘Carbon Flash Metallic’ (black with hints of dark green), and includes a unique rally stripe in red and silver with 45^th Anniversary graphics on the stripes.  Also included are special fender emblems celebrating the 45 years of production, a new 20X8 and 20X9 inch wheel design in deep silver, RS-style taillamp lenses, a standard rear spoiler, standard HID headlamps, body-color roof molding, leather-trimmed front bucket seats with the Anniversary Logo embroidered on the seatbacks, a white instrument panel with the 45^th Anniversary logo on the right side, white door trim inserts with green glowing LED ambient piping at night, red, white and blue stitching on the seats, and the Anniversary logo on the bottom of the leather-wrapped/tilt/telescoping steering wheel and sill plates.  Chevy wants all who gaze at this beautiful sports coupe to know that it celebrates 45 years of Camaro production.

But that is not all, the new 2012 is more refined and the 3.6 liter Direct Injection V6 model, also available with the Anniversary Package, is more powerful now pumping out 323hp, is 20.5lbs. lighter and helps maintain fuel economy of up to 30mpg highway.

More refinement is found on the instrument panel appearance with new instrument graphics and trim, as well as a new steering wheel design and a power lift feature for the front passenger seat.  The steering wheel features a fresh new look and ergonomic improvements intended to support performance driving.  Also new is a Rear Vision Package, which adds a rearview camera system and an auto-dimming mirror to the existing rear park assist feature.  The rearview camera system complements the rear park assist by providing a video display of the area behind the car, with the video images appearing in the car’s inside rearview mirror.

I tested the SS model with the 6.2 liter, all-aluminum V8 engine that generates a whopping 426hp at 5,900rpm and 420lb.ft. of torque at 4,600rpm.  When you turn the engine own you’ll hear the Chevy rumble coming from the dual exhaust system.  Plant you foot down on the floor board and the engine will sound like a banshee breaking from captivity.

Mated to the reliable and proven Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission that is designed to handle the high torque characteristics of the LS3 engine.  Short throws and smooth engagement and a standard limit-slip differential guarantee quick 0-60mph times well under 5-seconds.

The fully independent suspension is racecar bred and precise and quick acting.  Just a little tug of the steering wheel changes your direction.  Up front is a 4.5-link system that includes a unique L-shaped upper control arm that attaches to the knuckles at one end and incorporates a ride bushing in the rear.  The setup also includes a retuned dual ball strut system with a direct-acting 23mm solid stabilizer bar.  The rear setup includes coil-over gas-charged monotube shocks with a decoupled 24mm solid stabilizer bar.  The front and rear stabilizer bars are reshaped and positioned outboard of the shock mounts for more effective body control and more precise response.

The power-assisted rack & pinion steering system is super responsive to my steering wheel inputs and pointed my new Camaro SS where I wanted it to go.  It features a 16.1:1 ratio for quick acting.  Keeping me out of trouble when challenging steep curves is the standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system.

Quickly slowing the new Camaro SS down from speed are giant, power-assisted steel disc brakes with Brembo aluminum calipers.  Up front are 14 inch vented discs clamped with four-piston calipers, and 14.4 inch vented discs clamped with four-piston Brembo calipers in the rear.  Standard ABS keeps you in control during severe braking maneuvers or when braking on slick or wet pavement.

The 45^th Anniversary Camaro SS rides on giant 20X8 front and 20X9 inch rear custom wheels wrapped with 245/45R20 front and 275/40R20 inch rear Pirelli P Zero high-performance tires for an excellent compliant ride on smooth surfaces and extra grip when accelerating or braking.

The cockpit is perfectly designed with easy to read and use gauges, dials, switches and levers, all fully illuminated for safe nighttime travel.  The shifter is perfectly placed so you can easily grab it and keep your right hand on it during your drives without fatigue.

The front power-adjustable bucket seats are very comfortable and supportive for short or long drives.  The center stack is easy to reach and easy to use with two big dials.  There is plenty of legroom and headroom to let you stretch out when you need to.

Standard features in my 45^th Anniversary 2012 Camaro SS not mentioned above includes power express up/down windows, power door locks, heated front seats, universal home remote, power front seats, trunk release, A/C with air filtration system, intermittent, variable-speed wipers/washers, cruise control, 2-auxiliary power outlets, driver information center, full folding rear seat with trunk pass through, front carpeted floor mats, dual map lights, storage slots in each door, center console with dual cupholders, dual tier storage bin with padded armrest, deep and wide glove box, rear window defroster, HID headlamps, front fog lamps, leather-wrapped shift knob, heated/power outside mirrors, Bluetooth for your phone, Boston Acoustics premium audio sound system with AM-FM/CD player with 245-watts and nine-speakers, and a head’s-up display so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road to monitor your current speed.

Standard safety features include driver/front passenger airbags, driver/front passenger side impact airbags, side head curtain front rear airbags, LATCH system for child seats, theft deterrent system, traction control, seatbelts for all occupants with front pretensioners/load limiters, steel beam in each door, front/rear crumple zones, tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, OnStar with automatic crash response, battery rundown protection and vehicle alarm.

If you are a Chevy Camaro enthusiast this is the model for you to proudly drive this 45^th Anniversary Edition around town or on the back roads and truly enjoy the power, performance and interior refinements that make the all-new Chevy Camaro SS one of the great sport coupes in the world.

BMW Z4 (2011)

2011 BMW Z4

Combining classic proportions with modern sportiness, the new BMW Z4 has reached the top of its market segment almost overnight. And now this charismatic roadster is entering a new dimension in driving dynamics, the new BMW Z4 sDrive35is offering an even higher standard of performance ensured both by the modified straight-six power unit with BMW Twin Turbo Technology and High Precision Injection, on the one hand, and by BMW's seven-speed Sport Automatic with double clutch operation and the M Sports Package including the adaptive M Suspension likewise featured as standard, on the other. Appropriate optimisation in engine technology increases maximum output of the 3.0-litre power unit to 250 kW/340 hp. Peak torque is 450 Newton-metres/332 lb-ft, increasing briefly with the Overboost function to 500 Newton-metres/369 lb-ft. The outstanding power and performance of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is is expressed in particular by the significant increase in pulling power and muscle to be clearly experienced in all situations. In conjunction with seven-speed Sport Automatic featuring double clutch operation, this new top-of-the-range.

Roadster accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.8 seconds.
At 9.0 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 26.1 mpg US) and 210 grams in the EU test cycle, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are the same as on the BMW Z4 sDrive35i with Sport Automatic.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35is is making its world debut at the 2010 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. And parallel to the market launch of this high-performance roadster in spring 2010, the M Sports Package is being introduced for all further versions of the BMW Z4.

More air, more boost, more torque, more driving pleasure.
The twin-turbo straight-six power unit already giving the BMW Z4 sDrive35i truly impressive dynamics and all-round performance is characterised in particular by its spontaneous and direct response to the gas pedal, fascinating free-revving performance, and unusually economical use of fuel for a car in this class.

Now the outstanding potential of this power unit is being put to even greater use in the new version of the BMW Roadster, features such as optimised air supply and increased boost pressure ensuring an even better flow of power with the same high standard of efficiency.

The combination of BMW Twin Turbo Technology and High Precision Injection offers a level of performance a naturally-aspirated power unit would only be able to provide with a larger number of cylinders and extra displacement, meaning far higher weight and significantly greater fuel consumption.

Instead, the BMW Twin Turbo power unit uses two small turbochargers which, through their low inertia, cut in from the start at relatively low engine speeds, each supplying three cylinders with compressed air. As a result, power and performance are built up with a level of spontaneity quite unusual on a turbocharged engine. The turbocharger system developed for the power unit of the new BMW Z4 sDrive35is maintains a high boost pressure throughout the entire load range. Peak torque now increased to 450 Newton-metres or 332 lb-ft comes from a low 1,400 rpm and is maintained consistently all the way to 4,500 rpm. Maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp, in turn, is delivered at 5,800 rpm.

Overboost function for particularly dynamic acceleration.
Modified engine management on the BMW Z4 sDrive35is also allows the use of an Overboost function briefly increasing engine torque under full load by another 50 Newton-metres or 37 lb-ft. The peak thus offered of 500 Newton-metres/369 lb-ft gives the car particularly fast, dynamic and powerful acceleration, the BMW Z4 sDrive35is completing the sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.8 seconds.

Through its particular characteristics, the power unit offers a particularly intense experience of this supreme performance. The extra output of the optimized six-cylinder is maintained consistently throughout all load ranges, above all under very dynamic driving conditions.

When accelerating in the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, the driver feels the additional torque and muscle particularly at medium and high engine speeds. Following the policy of the BMW Group, finally, top speed of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is is limited electronically to 250 km/h or 155 mph.

High Precision Injection: the efficient way to supreme performance.
The BMW Z4 sDrive35is offers its outstanding power and performance consistently at all times. But this does not mean an increase in fuel consumption and emissions. On the contrary - averaging fuel consumption of 9.0 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 26.1 mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 210 grams per kilometre in the EU test cycle, the new top model offers the same superiority also in this respect as the BMW Z4 sDrive35i with Sport Automatic.

This unusually good balance of performance and fuel consumption results from the fundamental design and layout of the six-cylinder combining BMW Twin Turbo Technology with High Precision Injection. So once again, the qualities of direct gasoline injection featured in this engine come out very clearly, piezo-injectors positioned in the cylinder head between the valves and therefore in the immediate vicinity of the spark plugs ensuring particularly precise dosage of fuel and a clean combustion process.

Opening up to the outside, the injectors operate at a pressure of up to 200 bar, distributing fuel in a conical spray pattern throughout the entire combustion chamber. A further advantage of such direct fuel injection is the cooling effect allowing higher compression and making the combustion process even more efficient.

Through their concept alone, the turbochargers likewise help to reduce fuel consumption. Since the turbines are made of special steel particularly resistant to high temperatures and therefore able to cope with temperatures of more than 1,000° C or 1,830° F, there is no need for an increased fuel supply with its cooling effect. Particularly under full load, this ensures a significant advantagein fuel economy.

Further technologies offered as standard by BMW EfficientDynamics such as Brake Energy Regeneration, EPS Electric Power Steering and on-demand control and management of ancillary units likewise help to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions.

Characteristic engine sound accompanying the dynamic surge of power.
The modified six-cylinder also comes with special features on the engine block itself in the interest of even greater strength and stiffness. The exhaust system of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, in turn, has been developed specifically for this model, appropriate sound engineering giving the car a very characteristic and truly impressive sound pattern.

This particular distinction tailored to the BMW Z4 sDrive35is is ensured by special sound flaps and modifications on the silencers. The driver and passenger therefore experience powerful acoustic feedback to their wish for performance, without the sound of the engine becoming obtrusive, let alone annoying, at any time. So the sound experience is characterised by a particularly deep rumble with the focus above all on the low frequency range.

Seven-speed Sport Automatic with a special control map and an optimised two-mass flywheel.
The seven-speed Sport Automatic with double clutch operation featured in the BMW Z4 sDrive35is likewise offers the very best in driving dynamics and efficiency. A particular highlight in this case is the two-mass flywheel laid out particularly for an even higher level of power and performance, offering even greater strength and stability and naturally handling high engine torque of up to 500 Newton-metres or 369 lb-ft without the slightest problem.

The seven-speed Sport Automatic with double clutch operation shifts gears without the slightest interruption of torque and engine power, offering the driver the choice of an automatic gearshift or the manual selection of gears. The fast and particularly smooth change of gears ensures unusually harmonious acceleration and serves in addition to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions.

The control map on the seven-speed Sport Automatic transmission with double clutch has naturally been tailored to the particular power and performance of the engine, thus further enhancing the superior sportiness of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is to an even higher level. Particularly when shifting gears manually and in conjunction with the SPORT and SPORT+ modes of Dynamic Driving Control, the transmission offers a most dynamic experience through modified gearshift points, optimised selection of gears and an even greater increase in torque before shifting.

Sport Automatic also comes with a Launch Control function for maximum performance when accelerating from a standstill.

The Sport Automatic transmission is controlled and masterminded by an electronic gear selector on the centre console and comes with gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

Featured as standard on the BMW Z4 sDrive35is: M Sports Package and adaptive M Suspension.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35is also comes as standard with an M Sports Package including the M Aerodynamics Package and adaptive M Suspension featuring electronically controlled dampers for even greater agility without making any concessions in terms of comfort. The M Sports Package underlines the dynamic character of the car through its aerodynamically optimised exterior features and customised interior design. Special 18-inch light-alloy rims in five-spoke design combined with tyres of different size front and rear round off the sporting character of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, with 19-inch light-alloy rims available an option.

The adaptive M Suspension lowers the entire car by 10 millimetres or almost 0.4", ensuring a quick reaction to sudden steering manoeuvres and superior precision when entering a bend thanks to four continuously adjustable twin-sleeve gas-pressure dampers with interacting adjustment of the inbound and rebound strokes. The central control unit processing data delivered by three accelerometers and adjusting the four dampers independently of one another enables the suspension to respond very quickly to even the slightest change in driving and road conditions. Damper harshness, in turn, is adjusted by externally fitted valves controlling the flow of damper fluid, giving the dampers either a harder or softer set-up in accordance with current conditions and driving requirements. Reaction time of the system is extremely short, with the rear dampers being adjusted immediately as soon as the front wheels run over a hole or bump in the road.

Electric Power Steering on the BMW Z4 sDrive35is features a particularly sporting and dynamic control map, with the focus on intense and clear feedback to the driver through the dosage of power assistance provided by the electric motor. Again, this enables the driver to enter bends with extreme precision at all engine speeds in the interest of enhanced performance.

M Sports Package offering a most direct experience of the car's dynamic potential - and available as an option also on the other models in the range.

The exterior and interior features of the M Sports Package coming as standard on the BMW Z4 sDrive35is raises the dynamic driving potential of the car to an even higher level and clearly presents the particular qualities of this model through its looks alone.

Upon introduction of the new top model in the range, the M Sports Package is also becoming available as an option on the other versions of BMW's unique Roadster. The only difference is that instead of the wheels exclusive to the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, the other models come with 18-inch M light-alloy wheels on the M Sports Package.

The particular exterior features on the BMW Z4 sDrive35is include a striking front bumper with a horizontal trim bar in the outer air intakes finished in matt aluminium, like the bars in the BMW kidney grille. The slightly twisted contours of these trim bars take up the spoke design of the light-alloy rims as a further sign of distinction.

The rear bumper comes with specially accentuated surrounds on the exhaust tailpipes as well as a two-piece diffuser again created specifically for the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, finished at the top in body colour and featuring a black grained surface at the bottom. The M Aerodynamics Package included in the optional M Sports Package also on the other versions of the BMW Z4 Roadster furthermore comes with a rear bumper insert in Anthracite metallic.

Inside the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, the driving experience is enhanced to an even higher standard by features such as the M leather steering wheel with its gearshift paddles, an M footrest and sports seats. The instrument cluster comes with grey faces on the dials and the "sDrive35is" model designation in the instrument cluster.

Further features inside the BMW Z4 sDrive35is are the Anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof lining, M entry strips, footmats with coloured piping and the "sDrive35is" model designation, as well as M interior trim in Aluminium carbon.

The M Sports Package on the other versions of the BMW Z4 Roadster includes an M gearshift lever knob in leather on the manual gearbox models. At the same time the range of leather upholstery is being further enhanced by an additional colour variant marking the launch of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is: Both the top model and all other versions of the BMW Z4 Roadster are now also available in Kansas Walnut leather as yet a further option.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35is comes with a choice of six paintwork colours. In addition to Alpine White and the metallic colours Titanium Silver, Sapphire Black, Space Grey and Deep Sea Blue, the BMW Z4 Roadster is now available for the first time in Melbourne Red metallic.

Regardless of the colour chosen, the exterior mirror caps on the BMW Z4 sDrive35is always come in Oxide Silver. Another optical feature on the top model, finally, is the "sDrive35is" model designation on the front side panels.

2012 LAND ROVER Range Rover

2012 LAND ROVER Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition

Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition

The new Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition, a hand-finished exclusive addition, will make its debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

The flagship model adds a handcrafted luxury interior, using specially selected soft feel natural leathers, to an interior renowned for being one of the finest in the automotive world.

The driver benefits from the recognisable command driving position offering excellent visibility and comfort, and the rear passengers now experience first-class-style accommodation never before seen in a Range Rover.

Two stand alone electric rear seats enhance space and comfort for the rear passengers, making the Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition the definitive chauffeur vehicle. The addition of a rear console extension, including a machined aluminium laptop table and drinks chiller, and two Apple iPads as standard (the first car to do so), takes the Range Rover rear seat experience to new levels of luxury.

The luxury theme extends to the rear load space, with a super yacht inspired teak floor with metal and leather detailing.

The interior story is completed with high-end semi-aniline leather seating and Oxford leather on the door casings, dashboard top and steering wheel. For the first time, Kalahari wood veneers are used on the facia and door top rolls and unique interior colourways of either dark cherry or Arabica are available.

Two new unique exterior colours, either Roussillon Red or Otago Stone, are available along with body coloured door handles, dark atlas radiator grille and side vents to create a sophisticated finish. This Ultimate Edition is fitted with new and unique 20" multi-spoke diamond-turned alloy wheels, and unique tailgate badging. Customers also have the option of an Exterior Design Pack and deployable side steps.

The all-V8 engine line-up includes the superb new 4.4 litre LR-TDV8 Diesel engine with a new eight-speed transmission incorporating Drive Select with Paddle Shift as standard. This LR-TDV8 combines superior power with 313PS, 700Nm torque whilst delivering even lower fuel consumption and 14% less CO2 emissions than its predecessor in line with the stringent EU5 emissions standards. The combined cycle fuel consumption of the new LR-TDV8 4.4-litre is just 30.1mpg, making this the first Range Rover ever to better 30mpg.

The 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox tuned by Land Rover engineers to combine silky smooth shifting with exceptionally rapid response and improved fuel economy, catapults the Range Rover from rest to 60mph in a mere 7.5 seconds and complete the 50mph-75mph dash in just 5.1 seconds.

The LR-V8 5.0 Supercharged engine is also available delivering awesome power and torque, 510PS and 625Nm, propelling the Range Rover from 0-60mph in a breath-taking 5.9 seconds.

Both variants come with Land Rover's award-winning Terrain Response system, which optimises the vehicle set-up for virtually all on-road or off-road driving situations, with five different settings to suit different terrains including new Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control.

This Ultimate Edition was designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK and exclusivity is assured as each vehicle will be built to customer order only. 500 units will be produced and sold in over 20 markets globally.