Ford Ka

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_bY1OHHLezQVqZVVchXPakoi8WkZSCAnXWsLTND1xIr5xv42VO9BFi-xPt2XlNfQkwaF5HUs66QTFLRMxU6jEo-15Ud7QdsBVQMUBTAUALeT5hZQS09rhBm1jL1RHOTemXP9TevZgoRte/s1600-h/ka-body-lrg.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194922892430871330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_bY1OHHLezQVqZVVchXPakoi8WkZSCAnXWsLTND1xIr5xv42VO9BFi-xPt2XlNfQkwaF5HUs66QTFLRMxU6jEo-15Ud7QdsBVQMUBTAUALeT5hZQS09rhBm1jL1RHOTemXP9TevZgoRte/s400/ka-body-lrg.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />The Ford Ka lives for the moment. With its unmistakable styling, superb driving dynamics and a catch-me-if-you-can attitude, this is a small car with big ideas. If you’re looking for more power, there’s Ford Sportka SE with its aggressive styling and feisty 1.6-litre engine. Whatever you’re into, the Ford Ka wants to be part of the action.<br /><br />Exterior<br /><br />Ford Ka is proof that good things really do come in small packages. There’s just something about it; that curvaceous body, the sculpted headlights, those distinctive bumpers and that unmistakable zest for life. The Ford Ka was made to get noticed and so you always reach your destination in style.<br /><br />Now you can make an even bigger statement with Ka-ligraphy, a range of vibrant exterior vinyl graphics which complement the cute curves of the loveable Ka.<br /><br />Interior<br /><br />Because life’s about seizing every opportunity – and creating some fantastic memories, flexible 50/50 split rear seats and a handy glovebox mean you can bring whatever you need for your latest adventure. And with a comfortable and stylish interior you’ll never fail to make a statement.<br />Source:Ford

Ford Ka

The Ford Ka lives for the moment. With its unmistakable styling, superb driving dynamics and a catch-me-if-you-can attitude, this is a small...

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Video;New Mercedes GLK

<center><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YKQIxJj9zhI&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YKQIxJj9zhI&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object></center><br /><br /><div id="EchoTopic"><p>When the Mercedes GLK was launched at this year's Beijing Motor Show there was very little left to the imagination as we had already seen the pre production Freeside and Townside concepts at the Detroit Motor Show back in January. But the area of imagination is where the Mercedes designers have been found lacking, with a rather uninspiring design which falls well short of the innovation expected in the premium SUV sector.</p> <p>"Hey guys, the boss says we need to make something to compete with the X3! -Really? I'm so lazy today. Ok give me 5 minutes and a ruler, I will work something out." commented WCF reader Afterace2.'</p> <p>Fortunately the German manufacturer has at least popped in a few of its recently developed technologies including 4MATIC all-wheel-drive, Agility Control suspension, Intelligent Light System, PRE-SAFE and 7G-TRONIC transmission. Power units range from the 170 hp 2.2-liter four cylinder engine up to the top of the range 3.5-liter V6 pumping out 272hp.</p> <p>Check out the video for driving footage of the all new GLK.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"> </p></div><!-- google_ad_section_end --><div class="bottomarea">Source: Mercedes</div>

Video;New Mercedes GLK

When the Mercedes GLK was launched at this year's Beijing Motor Show there was very little left to the imagination as we had already see...

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Venturi Fetish with the new VM300 engine ...

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2emq8CeZy5hNHdIiGTpqwaMD3HbRHP7XhIy4BAY-GlyfP-jeQ6exlxVYOHeWCzuntb-qRZ9K-R3gU5yivIZh2Mf71G2eObCtCsJaU3cc2MYKhxe3dvh9lf_5qzF-MSQIWPzlSJif9wmP/s1600-h/12918080407.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194914916676602626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2emq8CeZy5hNHdIiGTpqwaMD3HbRHP7XhIy4BAY-GlyfP-jeQ6exlxVYOHeWCzuntb-qRZ9K-R3gU5yivIZh2Mf71G2eObCtCsJaU3cc2MYKhxe3dvh9lf_5qzF-MSQIWPzlSJif9wmP/s400/12918080407.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><div id="EchoTopic"><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The Venturi Fetish was first shown at the 2004 Paris Motor Show and will go into production this year, but Venturi first wanted to give the Euro 100,000 electric sports car an upgraded engine. This engine is called the VM 300 and produces 300 hp (220 kW) with 380 Nm of torque while weighing just 35 kg.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The Venturi Fetish was designed by Sacha Lakic and will be entering the newly established electric premium segment with the Fisker Karma and Tesla Roadster.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The 2009 Venturi Fetish with the new VM300 engine will be presented at the upcoming 2008 Paris Motor Show this October for those who have missed it at the elite Top Marques show in Monaco last weekend.</p> </div><!-- google_ad_section_end --><div class="bottomarea">Source: Venturi</div><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>

Venturi Fetish with the new VM300 engine ...

The Venturi Fetish was first shown at the 2004 Paris Motor Show and will go into production this year, but Venturi first wanted to give the ...

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Opel Corsa OPC by Steinmetz

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCSFYxN7BE-SJcJaKy0f3ILqIY9Y-27adjo1PkN_JFLnJexXDz7rSBGq2X51n-YyuK1ovwglqTe3bO9dIqk0-riQ2iUPbqOTwoE58uHADpnLAKCwf005TkHJa07nUZD6-KgcoC7Wccau7/s1600-h/OPLC_8.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194911772760541938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCSFYxN7BE-SJcJaKy0f3ILqIY9Y-27adjo1PkN_JFLnJexXDz7rSBGq2X51n-YyuK1ovwglqTe3bO9dIqk0-riQ2iUPbqOTwoE58uHADpnLAKCwf005TkHJa07nUZD6-KgcoC7Wccau7/s400/OPLC_8.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />Steinmetz presents/displays a preparation to us for Opel Corsa OPC, the Corsa more powerful than is sold at the present time and that is from most attractive in its segment and category by his fit price, benefits and design.<br /><br />The preparation of Steinmetz consists, in the first place, of kit the aerodynamic, that consists of elements like a new one and guessed right frontal grill, followed of a spoiler located in the inferior part of paragolpes front and divided in two parts, new range of alloy rims that are offered in diverse sizes - from 16 to 19 inches -, among others.<br /><br />In the mechanical section, it still more receives a reduction of 30 mm in the suspension, leaving it under which the one of series, in addition to an involution in its small supercharged motor 1,6 of 192 CV with a turbocompressor, that thanks to the preparation happens to count on 202 CV, that is to say, 10 CV extra, but Steinmetz has not at the moment revealed the improvement in the benefits that implies. Finally, we were the new escapes located in the back diffuser, that are those that contributes to the increase of power.<br /><br />In general, this preparation still more improves the one of by aesthetic exceptional himself of Corsa OPC, the only failure (to look for some to him), would be the positioning of the later escapes in the back diffuser, that cause that that zone is recharged too much.<br />Source: Steinmetz<br /><br /><center><a href="http://img132.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=2107675293"><img src="http://img132.imagefoco.com/thumb/2107675293.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img125.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=970915881"><img src="http://img125.imagefoco.com/thumb/970915881.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img128.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=1489501585"><img src="http://img128.imagefoco.com/thumb/1489501585.jpeg" style="width: 128px; height: 80px;" /></a> <a href="http://img123.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=1370243357"><img src="http://img123.imagefoco.com/thumb/1370243357.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img132.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=2134984251"><img src="http://img132.imagefoco.com/thumb/2134984251.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img125.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=1998427958"><img src="http://img125.imagefoco.com/thumb/1998427958.jpeg" /></a> </center><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Related entries:</span><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2007/12/opel-corsa-opc-in-depth.html">Opel Corsa OPC in Depth</a><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2007/12/opel-corsa-opc-sets-circuit-record-on.html">Opel Corsa OPC Sets Circuit Record on Nürburgring</a>

Opel Corsa OPC by Steinmetz

Steinmetz presents/displays a preparation to us for Opel Corsa OPC, the Corsa more powerful than is sold at the present time and that is fro...

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Bentley Apprentices Win Spirit of Greenpower

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJ-onkDfEi-H8OEgk9TjyhXmi5TcYjsy3d7VCKSUxGXS3QNL2RHhtqpiB6n_Vo6ARux-JRUebDNfXIDGLecTMiUCNDA-k2l-_isS8DOTGuoBKfDAenOId-V-xtlzdvXPUVahRD0tnyQF5/s1600-h/car26.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194908968146897634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJ-onkDfEi-H8OEgk9TjyhXmi5TcYjsy3d7VCKSUxGXS3QNL2RHhtqpiB6n_Vo6ARux-JRUebDNfXIDGLecTMiUCNDA-k2l-_isS8DOTGuoBKfDAenOId-V-xtlzdvXPUVahRD0tnyQF5/s400/car26.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />The only green usually associated with Bentley other than the color is the amount you have to spend to own and operate one. However there are some within Bentley who are working on cars that don't necessarily represent conspicuous consumption. A team of young apprentices working for Bentley took part in the <a href="http://www.greenpower.co.uk/">GreenPower Corporate Challenge</a> over the weekend and won the "Spirit of GreenPower" award with their Continental DC. The Continental DC doesn't have the typical wood and leather interior associated with the brand, but instead is a minimalist single-seater running on battery power. The GreenPower challenge is a electric vehicle competition for British high school students that is in its tenth year. For the Corporate Challenge, company teams had the opportunity to take on the top 15 student teams from the regular GreenPower series.<br /><br />The victorious Continental DC features a snug carbon fiber body that encloses a 240 W, 24V wheel chair motor and a pair of 12V lead acid batteries. The little racer has a top speed of 40mph. Maneuvering in a parking lot could be problematic with its 63ft turning circle. Of course with its 265lb mass you could just pick it up and turn it around. The team had some technical issues in the first part of the four race but persevered to win their award. They will go on to <a href="http://www.greenpower.co.uk/racing/f24plus.php">compete in the F24+ series this season</a>.<br /><br />[Source: <a href="http://www.bentleygreenpower.com/">Bentley</a>]<br />Bentley Racing Green <br /><br />28 April, 2008 <br /><br />Crewe, Monday 28th April 2008... A Bentley Motors apprentice team has won a special "Spirit of Greenpower" award for its performance in the Greenpower Corporate Challenge which took place at Goodwood race circuit yesterday. The Bentley apprentice team designed, engineered and built the electric powered car which they entered into the Greenpower Challenge as well as a season of "F24+" racing. The Bentley Greenpower car is called Continental DC (Direct Current) and runs off a 24-volt motor supplied by two 12-volt batteries. Designed for lightness and maximum power efficiency the one-seater Continental DC has a carbon fibre chassis and low resistance tyres. <p>Greenpower is a series of events which aims to promote greater interest in young people to follow careers in the fields of engineering and technology. The 2008 Greenpower corporate challenge held yesterday was the first race of the season. 25 teams entered, comprising 15 school entries and 10 company teams. The Bentley team achieved their goal of completing the four hour race, despite some technical difficulties in the first section. The award was given in recognition of their excellent team spirit which they showed in overcoming these initial technical challenges. The F24+ season consists of eight 90-minute endurance race events which will culminate in a grand final at Goodwood in October. Race tracks on the F24+ schedule include Dunsfold, Rockingham, Croft and Aintree.<br /><br /></p> <p>The Bentley Motors team is composed of nine of the company's apprentices who are all following a three or four year apprenticeship scheme at the factory in Crewe. Margaret Cheshire, Head of People and Organisational Development at Bentley Motors said, "It's fantastic that the apprentices are not only gaining the technical skills associated with building a car but are also increasing their knowledge of other areas of the business such as finance, purchasing and public relations." She continued, "It's all about giving the individuals knowledge and expertise to be successful in their future careers after the completion of the Bentley apprenticeship programme."<br /><br /></p> <p>Having taken the initiative themselves to compete in the Greenpower challenge the apprentices have devoted weekends and evenings for the past ten months taking full responsibility for all aspects of the car's development. Three team members acted as drivers on race day, the rest of the team provided essential back-up support in the pits.<br /><br /></p> <p>Tom Hodgson, Greenpower team manager added, "In building the car we pooled the expertise and resources from across the business to produce a project of which we're all proud. Having completed our first race we now know what we have to do to be successful for the rest of the 2008 Greenpower season. The experience of developing a project from idea to race-day was exhilarating. It was also hugely satisfying to see the positive support from sponsors keen to help the Bentley team".<br /><br /></p> <p>Technical highlights of the Bentley Greenpower car<br /><br /></p> <p>- Its 24v Motor delivers 0.5bhp and 5.1 lb ft (7Nm):<br />- Top speed of 40mph (64km/h).<br />- Zero CO2 emissions.<br />- Chassis & design:<br />o Fixed carbon fibre suspension wishbones for maximum strength and minimum weight.<br />o Excellent roadholding and superior grip from unique 1x16" carbon fibre wheels with bespoke Michelin low resistance tyres.<br />o Rear grille matrix in chrome finish.<br />o Bentley Hide/Alcantara trimmed interior<br />o Specially built ECU to control motor/transmission<br /><br /></p> <p>More information on the project is available at <a href="http://www.bentleygreenpower.com/">www.bentleygreenpower.com</a><br /><br /></p> <p><br />TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION<br /><br /></p> <p>MODEL TYPE Single Seater<br /><br /></p> <p>Power<br />Type 24v Wheelchair motor (Regulation)<br />Installation Transversely mounted, One-wheel drive<br />Power 240 Watt<br />Torque 7 Nm<br />Fuel Source 2 x 12 v Lead Acid Batterys<br /><br /></p> <p>TRANSMISSION<br />Type Continuous one-wheel drive<br />Gearbox Nuvinci CVP<br />Ratios Infinitely variable between 0.5 under and 1.75 overdrive<br /><br /></p> <p>PERFORMANCE<br />Top speed 40mph (64km/h).<br /><br /></p> <p>SUSPENSION<br />Front Single wishbone rigid suspension<br />Rear Single wishbone rigid suspension<br /><br /></p> <p>STEERING<br />Type Rack & pinion,<br />Turns lock to lock 1<br />Turning circle (kerb to kerb) 19.2m<br /><br /></p> <p>BRAKES<br />Rear 160mm ventilated disc (to single wheel)<br />Anti lock In development!<br /><br /></p> <p>BODY & CHASSIS<br />Construction Carbon Fibre monocoque<br />Length 1420mm<br />Width (inc. mirrors) 1000mm (82.76in)<br />Weight 120 Kg<br />Height 500mm<br />Wheelbase 1300mm<br />Front track 1000mm<br />Rear track 1000mm<br />Wheels Custom made 16" carbon fibre<br /><br /></p> <p>Tyres Michelin Eco-Marathon specials<br /><br /></p> <p>FUEL CONSUMPTION/EMISSIONS<br />Fuel consumption 2 hours per battery set<br />Carbon dioxide emissions 0g/km<br />CONTINENTAL GT FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS<br /><br /></p> <p>EXTERIOR FEATURES Bright chromed grille<br />Bentley Wheel Badge<br /><br /></p> <p>INTERIOR FEATURES Trimmed Steering wheel, Seat and dashboard, Touch screen driver information panel in development<br /><br /></p> <p><br />Tom Hodgson<br />Bentley Test & Development Engineering Apprentice<br />Greenpower Project Manager<br /><br /></p> <p>Andrew Conneely<br />Bentley Whole Vehicle Engineering Sponsored Degree Apprentice<br />Greenpower Design of steering and suspension components<br /><br /></p> <p>Martyn Brookes<br />Bentley Prototype Workshop and Test Facility Apprentice<br />Greenpower Chassis, Design & Electrical.<br /><br /></p> <p>Ellis Dawson<br />Bentley Apprentice Analyst Programmer<br />Greenpower Team Marketing, Website, data logging and telemetry.<br /><br /></p> <p>Annabelle Gibson<br />Bentley Commercial Apprentice<br />Greenpower Contact for sponsors.<br /><br /></p> <p>Charlotte Watling<br />Bentley Electrical Engineering Apprentice<br />Greenpower Electrical design & Production and driver.<br /><br /></p> <p>Hannah Proffitt<br />Bentley Body Hardware Engineering Sponsored Degree Apprentice<br />Greenpower Interior trim, Steering and driver.<br /><br /></p> <p>Laura Taylor<br />Bentley Trim Development Apprentice<br />Greenpower Seat design and manufacture.<br /><br /></p> Paul Johnson<br />Bentley Manufacturing maintenance Apprentice<br />Greenpower Data logging and telemetry<br />via <a href="http://www.driive.com/2008/04/29/bentley-apprentice-team-wins-spirit-of-greenpower-award-at-greenpower-corporate-challenge/">driive.com</a>

Bentley Apprentices Win Spirit of Greenpower

The only green usually associated with Bentley other than the color is the amount you have to spend to own and operate one. However there ar...

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Tony Dron tests the new Volkswagen Passat CC

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrubsXWoxfgTD-GkpYahbAGxdACSqrFaATaShBtmDWbl-wvw7xPLbptPL_jeLT60B5GoSS6FmPCNVSDWImK9IfF_7mkNcvJ0uh8-FxVptdIoiom5jWxm8E6VqhegbUjY-uLlUL6DCVSaNB/s1600-h/mfvw1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194904862158162642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrubsXWoxfgTD-GkpYahbAGxdACSqrFaATaShBtmDWbl-wvw7xPLbptPL_jeLT60B5GoSS6FmPCNVSDWImK9IfF_7mkNcvJ0uh8-FxVptdIoiom5jWxm8E6VqhegbUjY-uLlUL6DCVSaNB/s400/mfvw1.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a>If you thought the VW Passat saloon was just a bit, well, worthy, then the new Passat CC is a stylish and luxurious alternative. Assuming you require neither Pickfords' carrying capacity nor a family bus, then this "upper mid-range segment coupé" might not be an Audi, a BMW, or a Mercedes-Benz but it is a very stylish temptation. Its makers evidently hope that it will be seen as a poor man's Mercedes-Benz CLS. Although the CC name might suggest a metal-topped convertible, in this application it actually stands for "Comfort Coupé", so note first that the roof does not open.<p class="story2">This new version of the Passat has the right image and the right price range, but be wary of VW's claim that it offers space without compromise: anybody sitting in the back who is much over 6ft tall will find their head touching the roof. This is a bit unfortunate as the Passat CC is strictly a four-seater luxury car and is fitted inside with different seats and more costly materials than you'll find in the saloon. It is a genuine luxury car and quite a large one at that, 15ft 9in long yet only 4ft 9in high, with generous legroom and a surprisingly voluminous boot, albeit with a small opening. It may be based on the Passat saloon's platform but the CC is longer, wider and the body stands a full couple of inches lower.</p><p class="story2">It's no surprise to see VW producing a superlative expression of the latest automotive technology. In fact, we expect nothing less and the Passat CC offers sophisticated adaptive chassis control. It's also the first VW with "lane assist", to help keep dozy drivers from wandering off the road. </p><p class="story2">From July, when Passat CCs start arriving here, there will be a choice between two petrol engines and one diesel. The cheapest model, from £21,000, is the CC TSI, front-wheel drive and powered by the smallest petrol engine, a 1.8-litre turbo producing 158bhp. Lively, smooth and quiet, this new engine is remarkably efficient, giving a top speed of 138mph, 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds and returning a very acceptable EC Combined fuel consumption figure of 37.2mpg, with CO2 emissions at 180g/km.</p><p class="story2">Early models also include a front-wheel drive, two-litre turbodiesel, whose impressively smooth engine gives 138bhp, which is sure to be the most popular choice because of its long-term cost. Later on there will be another petrol engine, with 197bhp, and a second diesel with 168bhp.</p><p class="story2">The range-topper, available from the start and the one that VW must hope will steal some sales from the rich boys' showrooms, is a very different machine. With an on-the-road starting price likely to be £31,120, the Passat CC V6 4Motion is packed with every technical marvel you could think of, including four-wheel drive, adaptive chassis control and a DSG gearbox as standard. With 296bhp on tap, its 3.6-litre V6 engine delivers the high performance expected. This is a very quick car - its top speed is electronically limited to 155mph - and on paper it does appear to take on far more costly rivals. Its sophisticated all-wheel drive and stability systems do all the right things to keep it safe and controllable but, driving it, I could not escape the feeling that VW has tried a bit too hard here.</p><p class="story2">This is another fast, technically brilliant machine, but it is heavy and I felt that the concept might be a touch overblown. I was occasionally conscious of the sound of all that sophisticated machinery driving it along, in a way I never am with, say, an Audi or a Mercedes-Benz, but then those cars do cost a lot more. VW tends not to make marketing mistakes these days and the company seems quietly confident of its ability to satisfy a niche or two with the Passat CC range.</p><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWWDuGrwhh2g47QEc6EF1an4_YauliS32PAm-3G150SJySqi8pErc-9Ud-OQGZQzJmHUcGRCS-2rIfUN5nGf2rJcorqvoePdpMRU4v6WsdMf0ledZd_GAKUVZhFuIAkFVVbP15DT8Grwz/s1600-h/mfvw2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194904771963849410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWWDuGrwhh2g47QEc6EF1an4_YauliS32PAm-3G150SJySqi8pErc-9Ud-OQGZQzJmHUcGRCS-2rIfUN5nGf2rJcorqvoePdpMRU4v6WsdMf0ledZd_GAKUVZhFuIAkFVVbP15DT8Grwz/s400/mfvw2.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><p class="story2">When it comes to driving pleasure, however, I found the cheapest Passat CC, the 1.8-litre petrol, the most enjoyable of the lot. It felt lighter in every way, the new engine was smooth and very willing and it never seemed like a slow car. A top speed of 138mph cannot be regarded as remotely inadequate, surely? VW's four-cylinder engines, petrol or diesel, are all excellent now. They can be found in the cheaper Audis, too, where they seem that bit quieter, but there isn't much in it.</p><p class="story2">For all its sporting looks, the Passat CC does not rival BMW in driver appeal. There's a touch too much understeer for that and the CC can best be described as supremely competent. Volkswagen calls it a "Comfort Coupé", after all, and that's exactly what it is. With the choice of comfort, normal and sport modes, however, its behaviour can be altered and, to be fair, it feels noticeably firmer and sharper when the damping is set for sport. </p><p class="story2">The most intriguing new gadget is the optional "lane assist". When engaged, this comes into play at 40mph and above. It disengages when the indicators are used or the speed drops below 37mph. What happens when you let the car drift off its lane? Very gently, reacting to signals from a camera, you can feel the steering easing the car back on line. Although we tried it only in sunshine, it should also work in bad weather and at night. It's effective, but it doesn't take over the driving completely, not yet anyway. If you let it carry on, it will wander from side to side three times before emitting a warning noise and flashing a sign telling you to take proper control. Quite right, too. I can't help feeling that anyone who really needs this sort of help shouldn't be driving at all. More useful is the optional "park assist" which will guide you into a parking space (as long as it's big enough), with you working the pedals.</p><p class="story2">Does the Passat CC make the grade? Probably, thanks largely to its very stylish looks. The neighbours will be impressed, no doubt about that, and they might also be astonished to see that it carries VW Passat badges.</p><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VCMcQ-1SkrHWq1-1dEyzBEjewEv3wF9xJ-B9QNddFYuw8trQUisooicVNVEB4PwfCyNgIpOReuT1b40nHQnBCOghJVwhQKnJqskm8fKNeQBYt_73WUiT1F-5lo29LbT_YrQjtmwonJI7/s1600-h/mfvw3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194904101948951218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VCMcQ-1SkrHWq1-1dEyzBEjewEv3wF9xJ-B9QNddFYuw8trQUisooicVNVEB4PwfCyNgIpOReuT1b40nHQnBCOghJVwhQKnJqskm8fKNeQBYt_73WUiT1F-5lo29LbT_YrQjtmwonJI7/s400/mfvw3.jpg" style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" /></a><a style="font-weight: bold;" class="name" name="1"><span class="subh2">Volkswagen Passat CC<br /></span></a><p class="story2"><b>Price/availability: </b>1.8 TSI from £21,000, 2.0 TDI from £21,870, V6 4Motion from £31,120. On sale from May, 2008; deliveries commencing in July.</p><p class="story2"><b> Engines/transmissions:</b> 1.8 TSI: 1,798cc turbo petrol in-line four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC; 158bhp at 5,000rpm, 184lb ft of torque at 1,500rpm. 2.0 TDI: 1,968cc turbo diesel in-line four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC; 138bhp at 4,200rpm, 236lb ft of torque at 1,500rpm. V6 4Motion: 3,597cc petrol V6; 296bhp at 6,600rpm, 258lb ft of torque at 2,400rpm. 1.8 TSI and 2.0TDI: six-speed manual; seven-speed DSG optional. 4x4. V6 4Motion: six-speed DSG. Four-wheel drive. </p><p class="story2"><b>Performance:</b> 1.8 TSI: top speed 138mph, 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds, EU Urban fuel consumption 27.1mpg, CO2 emissions 180g/km. 2.0 TDI: 132mph, 9.8sec, 37.6mpg, 153g/km. V6 4Motion: limited to 155mph, 5.6sec, 18.7mpg, 242g/km. </p><p class="story2"><b>We like:</b>Stylish looks with convincing feeling of luxury, good legroom in rear for this class, adaptive chassis control and loads of technical goodies.</p><p class="story2"><b> We don't like</b> Not quite as sporting to drive as its looks suggest, visibility slightly difficult when reversing, restricted headroom in rear, noisy mechanicals in the V6 model. </p><p class="story2"><b>Alternatives:</b> Alfa Romeo 159, from £18,555. BMW 3-series, from £24,145. Mercedes-Benz CSL, from £43,962. </p>Source:telegraph.co.uk<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Related entries:</span><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/01/volkswagen-passat-cc-four-door-coupe.html">Volkswagen Passat CC Four-Door Coupe Revealed</a><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2007/12/volkswagens-passat-coupe-spied-again.html">Volkswagen's Passat Coupe Spied Again</a>

Tony Dron tests the new Volkswagen Passat CC

If you thought the VW Passat saloon was just a bit, well, worthy, then the new Passat CC is a stylish and luxurious alternative. Assuming yo...

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Turn Your Cadillac CTS into a Convertible

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37s7Jbypizn8UUr-zedcS4dq_cri_nxp67PMwLdAphaYKWRF3HNzTHsLzGOX3undBeuigPVUSstetWqBstdo9e-uOpT6y67mWWMzALdmQ1N2zR9429YfreL6qzM7vKqVdmGjqn2RQrBE6/s1600-h/_Cadillac+CTS081106-small.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194899308765448866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37s7Jbypizn8UUr-zedcS4dq_cri_nxp67PMwLdAphaYKWRF3HNzTHsLzGOX3undBeuigPVUSstetWqBstdo9e-uOpT6y67mWWMzALdmQ1N2zR9429YfreL6qzM7vKqVdmGjqn2RQrBE6/s400/_Cadillac+CTS081106-small.jpg" style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><div id="EchoTopic"><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The Cadillac CTS sedan has enjoyed a fair amount of success since it was launched last fall and this could well continue in the form of the top of the line 550hp CTS-V which will hit dealers later this year. Lets also not forget the coupe variant currently under development derived from the awesome CT Coupe concept.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">But obviously the line up is missing an open top variant, this is where conversion specialists Coach Builders Ltd come in with their version of the CTS Convertible. The design has just been completed and orders are now being taken at a whopping $19,000.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The convertible kit does not have a roll bar and features an acrylic polyester cloth hydraulic top in a number of colors, a padded roof and exterior fabric for sound and temperature insulation, it takes about eight weeks to complete.</p> </div><!-- google_ad_section_end --><div class="bottomarea">Source: <a href="http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=125958#2">InsideLine</a></div><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Related entries:</span><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2007/11/cadillac-cts-coupe-and-wagon.html">Cadillac CTS Coupe and Wagon</a><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/01/2009-cadillac-cts-v-debuts-at-naias.html">2009 Cadillac CTS-V Debuts at NAIAS</a><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/02/cadillac-cts-v-promo-video.html">Cadillac CTS-V Promo Video</a><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/01/2009-cadillac-cts-v-revealed.html">2009 Cadillac CTS-V revealed</a><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/01/2009-cadillac-cts-v-revealed.html">Leaked: 2009 Cadillac CTS-V</a>

Turn Your Cadillac CTS into a Convertible

The Cadillac CTS sedan has enjoyed a fair amount of success since it was launched last fall and this could well continue in the form of the ...

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Proposed CAFE rules hurt Porsche, small powerful vehicles

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuckDfLmVSwMuFFOqngsNrOsp9TmP6KW4DuDrbi6Z0XT0mBWplauZryG8dSJb4ddHynF_NUxp4OYprTFf0ukcCMrqd1NyffnP6SHc7euoIwtORf6gCf2SXsPIzmFJy7Zc4RfkDkP4CJps7/s1600-h/gt3x_opt.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194580699501496978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuckDfLmVSwMuFFOqngsNrOsp9TmP6KW4DuDrbi6Z0XT0mBWplauZryG8dSJb4ddHynF_NUxp4OYprTFf0ukcCMrqd1NyffnP6SHc7euoIwtORf6gCf2SXsPIzmFJy7Zc4RfkDkP4CJps7/s400/gt3x_opt.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><p>Under proposed new fuel economy rules set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), automakers with powerful short-wheelbase models are going to feel some pain. The agency is considering a plan to create two sliding scales of efficiency for cars and trucks of different sizes. Automakers will be assigned fuel economy standards based on the "footprint" (<em>short wheelbase = small footprint</em>) of their vehicles, and the number of vehicles they sell. Companies like Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, independent luxury brands with high-performance models, will be hit the hardest. Interestingly enough, Toyota, Chrysler, and General Motors, big players with diverse model lineups, won't feel as much pressure. </p> <p>Conforming to the tough new proposed rules may be very expensive. As a result, some industry executives expect some automakers, such as Porsche, just to pay the fines--it's less costly than changing a model lineup. Regulators are under the gun to adopt a policy by April 1, 2009. In the meantime, the NHTSA will be taking public comments over the next two months. Time to send 'em a letter... </p> <p>[Source: <a href="http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080428/FREE/149107429/1023/rss01&rssfeed=rss01">Autoweek</a>]</p>

Proposed CAFE rules hurt Porsche, small powerful vehicles

Under proposed new fuel economy rules set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), automakers with powerful short-whee...

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2008 Shelby GT500KR, Part 1

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAbU8k-5jGnYyfu1q0P6Fzpgs8o5uaLZ8IwIpfTtV9oPE_yr-7ZO_Bo1bZ4YVQLhKZL7gfcC3qMQBUEeSumQXA2xyOuj6bmAskGcjVgOSWjA_JF8tNrRrjm3LQtv7fSqwmTGeDnY0nGcx/s1600-h/gt500krfirstdrive01.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194577276412562050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsAbU8k-5jGnYyfu1q0P6Fzpgs8o5uaLZ8IwIpfTtV9oPE_yr-7ZO_Bo1bZ4YVQLhKZL7gfcC3qMQBUEeSumQXA2xyOuj6bmAskGcjVgOSWjA_JF8tNrRrjm3LQtv7fSqwmTGeDnY0nGcx/s400/gt500krfirstdrive01.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />I have to admit, the Shelby GT500 was somewhat of a letdown. I have no complaints about the 500 horsepower or the muscular lines, but at nearly 4,000 pounds, it's got a serious weight problem. The iron block, 5.4-liter V8 and the addition of a supercharger puts much the weight in the worst possible place -- the front -- so the GT500 feels unmotivated around the corners compared to a regular Mustang GT. Other complaints include a suspension that doesn't seem up to snuff to handle the prodigious power, as well as a vague and rubbery shifter. Despite its shortcomings, the GT500 is one of the world's best performance bargains. Never before has such a powerful car been available for so little cash (although the Ford dealers did a pretty good job of ruining its value with markups). Still, one couldn't help but think that the GT500 could have been better.<br />Source:<a href="http://www.autoblog.com/">autoblog</a><br /><br /><center><a href="http://img129.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=1430564474"><img src="http://img129.imagefoco.com/thumb/1430564474.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img131.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=334850428"><img src="http://img131.imagefoco.com/thumb/334850428.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img123.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=1151432270"><img src="http://img123.imagefoco.com/thumb/1151432270.jpeg" /></a> </center>

2008 Shelby GT500KR, Part 1

I have to admit, the Shelby GT500 was somewhat of a letdown. I have no complaints about the 500 horsepower or the muscular lines, but at nea...

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Oullim Motors Spirra Supercar

<center><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/i_L4JbUU3oc&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/i_L4JbUU3oc&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div id="EchoTopic"> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">2005 was the year that Proto Motors revealed their first Spirra sports car, a very admirable sports car. Early 2007 Oullim Motors bought Proto Motors and upgraded the power train to a turbocharged and supercharged 2.7 liter V6 engine good for about 400 hp and called them the Spirra Turbo and Spirra S respectively. Last week at the 2008 Auto China motor show in Beijing the new Korean manufacturer presented the production version of the car.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The company also has a race version, the Spirra GT270 with 2.7 liter twin turbo engine producing around 600 hp, and a drag race version called the Spirra GT460 which uses both a turbo and supercharger to produce around 700 hp.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The Spirra is mid-engined and uses a carbon-fiber body covering a space-frame chassis. The Oullim Spirra is set to go on sale in Korea later this year for about USD 100,000. Oullim Motors hopes to build and sell 100 units this year and bump production up to 300 of the hand build sports cars by next year.</p></div><!-- google_ad_section_end --><div class="bottomarea">Source: Oullim Motors via <a href="http://www.autoblog.nl/archive/2008/04/26/spirra-s">Autoblog.nl</a></div></div></center>

Oullim Motors Spirra Supercar

2005 was the year that Proto Motors revealed their first Spirra sports car, a very admirable sports car. Early 2007 Oullim Motors bought Pr...

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Aston Martin AM V10 Concept

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5vLxum9DAXhKHvqTsp3LwTt3kAb7lmxd0TaMw0gpwg6ZD9WMHjsEpEEfwpDX65XOQmqPYzTWRCxl4_0_75CojPXz-Uuf8BOde8daRdgKVPRXTwpcFs4Lm6cgRFM6_9EJosztTBgDroRU/s1600-h/aston_martin_amv10_by_sabaman3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194560045003770482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5vLxum9DAXhKHvqTsp3LwTt3kAb7lmxd0TaMw0gpwg6ZD9WMHjsEpEEfwpDX65XOQmqPYzTWRCxl4_0_75CojPXz-Uuf8BOde8daRdgKVPRXTwpcFs4Lm6cgRFM6_9EJosztTBgDroRU/s400/aston_martin_amv10_by_sabaman3.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />Like most rendered ruminations, we know absolutely nothing about these digital drawings of a car named the Aston Martin AM V10, other than they were penned by someone who goes by Sabaman. They're not new either, having been uploaded onto the interwebs about a year ago. Nevertheless, they're very good and show off a vision for Aston Martin's future that's become all the more relevant since the brand's been sold by Ford.<br /><br />Perhaps building ever faster versions of its current lineup won't cut the mustard someday soon, and Aston will begin considering a proper halo car. Such a low-slung, mid-engine exotic like this AM V10 concept could do the trick. It's swoopy with a familiar Aston Martin front face, but the rest of the body is pure sex. Again, we reiterate, these renderings are purely fantasy and nothing like this is being planned, but we wouldn't mind if it were.<br />via:njection.com<br /><br /><center><a href="http://img131.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=1241793581"><img src="http://img131.imagefoco.com/thumb/1241793581.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img128.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=1459058117"><img src="http://img128.imagefoco.com/thumb/1459058117.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img123.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=595748182"><img src="http://img123.imagefoco.com/thumb/595748182.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img124.imagefoco.com/img.php?id=1103403860"><img src="http://img124.imagefoco.com/thumb/1103403860.jpeg" /></a><br /><br /></center>

Aston Martin AM V10 Concept

Like most rendered ruminations, we know absolutely nothing about these digital drawings of a car named the Aston Martin AM V10, other than t...

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US-Spec 2009 Mazda6 Revealed

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-ogd9XLQoQv3GdGEU1buQeKm0uwnyympXa1IOwmm9_siXhn8XlNUe3xE-htT9EgItA0n1D33BactZDzCBQbR5Bn7HgLMG_FnBta71C1045HaPZs5dymC6UAkH0SfTjLOFkiY7OtnLeRj/s1600-h/M6_8U.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194555247525300834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-ogd9XLQoQv3GdGEU1buQeKm0uwnyympXa1IOwmm9_siXhn8XlNUe3xE-htT9EgItA0n1D33BactZDzCBQbR5Bn7HgLMG_FnBta71C1045HaPZs5dymC6UAkH0SfTjLOFkiY7OtnLeRj/s400/M6_8U.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><div id="EchoTopic"> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">It may share the name and its recognition, but the US specification Mazda 6 differs in many ways from its non-US counterpart making it virtually a new car. The US Mazda6 is larger inside and out, comes with more powerful engines and has its own unique styling points.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Mazda has been building US specific version of the mid-size sedan ever sine the 2002 Mazda6 at their AutoAlliance International plant, a joint venture with Ford, in Flat Rock, Mich. "This is the most important new vehicle Mazda has launched in a decade," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO Mazda North America.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Power comes from the 2.5 liter MZR four-cylinder engine or a 3.7 liter V6 with either a six-speed manual transmission, five-speed automatic with manual-shift mode for the 4-cylinder or six-speed automatic with manual-shift more for the V6.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The US will only be able to buy the new Mazda6 as a sedan, the hatchback and estate are reserved for the rest of the world, and have a choice of three trim level: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. The US Mazda6 is expected to go on sale late this summer.</p> </div><!-- google_ad_section_end --><div class="bottomarea">Source: Mazda</div><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Related entries:</span><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2007/11/second-generation-mazda6.html">The Second-Generation Mazda6</a>

US-Spec 2009 Mazda6 Revealed

It may share the name and its recognition, but the US specification Mazda 6 differs in many ways from its non-US counterpart making it virt...

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2010 Audi S4 Spy Photos

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7ZHwGZjPkpA_u7S8dOUDTQz0wFa6qNlcrFoiRYMW9oiIvdRNiBRQ7E-DnlAcgh6AlX18ZOvHlvE_F-M5tFYYVRuJKyyIcXHkoW1e46EfDVYqLxsXlgeiUyLBLCfAaR0biQdPBqA8N5CY/s1600-h/audi-s4-1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194552309767670354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7ZHwGZjPkpA_u7S8dOUDTQz0wFa6qNlcrFoiRYMW9oiIvdRNiBRQ7E-DnlAcgh6AlX18ZOvHlvE_F-M5tFYYVRuJKyyIcXHkoW1e46EfDVYqLxsXlgeiUyLBLCfAaR0biQdPBqA8N5CY/s400/audi-s4-1.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />When the next generation Audi S4 makes its expected debut sometime in 2009 as a 2010 model, it will lose its snarling V8 for a more fuel-efficient forced induction V6, like the previous-generation, B7-chassis car. While the all-new V6-powered Audi S4 has only lived in our imaginations until now, spy photographers have finally captured the first images of the next-generation car while out testing.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQWeq-GUgW6EM66vIdBenaPUVLU0C867WvQB1WsIcPRXs_T-YCqSuYnrG_L-03Vo-_f0j2y-fS7MHnfmwqTqtZns36YbS3XnKszZNzQSq3ck8Xz-0CqSoZWmc3fa_D7FXWl6YmznMMxAT/s1600-h/audi-s4-2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194552077839436354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQWeq-GUgW6EM66vIdBenaPUVLU0C867WvQB1WsIcPRXs_T-YCqSuYnrG_L-03Vo-_f0j2y-fS7MHnfmwqTqtZns36YbS3XnKszZNzQSq3ck8Xz-0CqSoZWmc3fa_D7FXWl6YmznMMxAT/s400/audi-s4-2.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />While the move to a V6 was foreseen, at the Vienna Motor Symposium, Audi revealed some details on the engine. A supercharger will sit under the hood of the European and North American S4, which is due out this fall. Power is rated at 350 horsepower, but fuel economy will be much improved over the outgoing S4's 340hp 4.2-liter V8.<br /><br />The engine will make its debut in the A6, although in slightly detuned form, producing 290 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The A6 is due out this fall, with the S4 not far behind, according to Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjwgcNrvqBgIh_WEiqglqQyTnROmELCe6ntotobps5Flcsvrv6xc9ZeJTUcEA58aFdZ6pMoN7cdjpXyN1-6P5Z5hvw6SGD76GYk8RqQY01rGnc9xDIkd-o61VhxuT8U9mVgaJ2NRWmPSK9/s1600-h/audi-s4-3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194551781486692914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjwgcNrvqBgIh_WEiqglqQyTnROmELCe6ntotobps5Flcsvrv6xc9ZeJTUcEA58aFdZ6pMoN7cdjpXyN1-6P5Z5hvw6SGD76GYk8RqQY01rGnc9xDIkd-o61VhxuT8U9mVgaJ2NRWmPSK9/s400/audi-s4-3.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />The new S4 will be lighter as well, as the B9 A4 body is about 100lbs lighter than the outgoing model and the two will share body panels। An active differential sourced from Magna will be able to distribute power on demand between wheels on the same axle is also expected to be part of the package to help the all-wheel driver handle like a rear-wheel drive vehicle. The same differential will make its way into the company's Q5 SUV and S5 GT coupe as well.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezvOLN5BM2JNqVFKKtBeQhvKjA672C1_iN7Thy0asOPpYLomzJCiFWIrlvE-AoJR8Ld7Yrbe8NALcxho710HxXPLoiAPKWOYgAKXhQP2tbxXI_6lUh3we30tolkSF4sSbAOpPXtca5gFf/s1600-h/audi-s4-4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194551515198720546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezvOLN5BM2JNqVFKKtBeQhvKjA672C1_iN7Thy0asOPpYLomzJCiFWIrlvE-AoJR8Ld7Yrbe8NALcxho710HxXPLoiAPKWOYgAKXhQP2tbxXI_6lUh3we30tolkSF4sSbAOpPXtca5gFf/s400/audi-s4-4.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />Like previous S4 models, the new car will be visually similar to the standard A4, but will have some design cues to separate it from lesser cars — including a lower stance and quad-exhaust.<br /><br />Audi's move back to forced induction is in tune with a recent prediction turbocharged gasoline engines will double by 2013 on account of the gas savings they offer.<br />Source:leftlanenews.com<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Related entries:</span><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/01/audi-a6-facelift-first-spy-photos.html">Audi A6 Facelift First Spy Photos</a><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/01/audi-s6-and-s6-avant_10.html">Audi S6 and S6 Avant</a>

2010 Audi S4 Spy Photos

When the next generation Audi S4 makes its expected debut sometime in 2009 as a 2010 model, it will lose its snarling V8 for a more fuel-eff...

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Audi to introduce new 350hp Supercharged Engine for New S4 and Facelifted A6

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3oAeH93L2U4DhVqFEhg1i8rDoWvf1eQv2sCInu-pz_xCKKVswF9ahhvw4-kdI6-SnNcrj53tTmG7dMRkW-fzaM8P_NVrBlR8lyH7t-cnsCVXsoUHdovhqILlexhkj3TC47ufiFtaL-gs/s1600-h/audi-s4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194547246001228306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3oAeH93L2U4DhVqFEhg1i8rDoWvf1eQv2sCInu-pz_xCKKVswF9ahhvw4-kdI6-SnNcrj53tTmG7dMRkW-fzaM8P_NVrBlR8lyH7t-cnsCVXsoUHdovhqILlexhkj3TC47ufiFtaL-gs/s400/audi-s4.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><div id="EchoTopic"><p>The ever intuitive folks over at Auto Motor und Sport have uncovered the first details that Audi are working on a new engine for the new generation S4. The new Supercharged 3.0T FSI V6 powerplant is reported to pump out 350 horsepower and will replace the 340hp 4.2-liter V8 found in the current generation.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The new V6 engine will consume significantly less fuel than the outgoing powertrain and weight reduction further enhances the performance. A detuned 290hp version will initially debut in the A6 facelift later this year, it will also make its way to the Audi S5 and Q5 models sometime in the future.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The photos show prototypes for the new S4 and A6 facelift whilst undergoing winter testing earlier this year.</p> </div><!-- google_ad_section_end --><div class="bottomarea">Source: <a href="http://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/news/auto_-_produkte/hxcms_article_511977_13987.hbs">Auto Motor und Sport</a></div><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Related entries:</span><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/01/audi-a6-facelift-first-spy-photos.html">Audi A6 Facelift First Spy Photos</a><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/04/2010-audi-s4-spy-photos.html">2010 Audi S4 Spy Photos</a><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/01/audi-s6-and-s6-avant_10.html">Audi S6 and S6 Avant</a>

Audi to introduce new 350hp Supercharged Engine for New S4 and Facelifted A6

The ever intuitive folks over at Auto Motor und Sport have uncovered the first details that Audi are working on a new engine for the new gen...

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Raikkonen Wins Spanish GP

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQsEdH09ACOdM6TDeZn9I8q5jmjPpOxcg_S20fjnM2cuVa8kuEUWjik_TM__tU9NpDBJ_-pVkCi_-HDKDiKWBpEOPEKJK9Aml8uxHMV7FzJJZjW1tFiOu3jIyqVduEBcWDYh1NM2h9NIM/s1600-h/ferrai350.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194544664725883394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQsEdH09ACOdM6TDeZn9I8q5jmjPpOxcg_S20fjnM2cuVa8kuEUWjik_TM__tU9NpDBJ_-pVkCi_-HDKDiKWBpEOPEKJK9Aml8uxHMV7FzJJZjW1tFiOu3jIyqVduEBcWDYh1NM2h9NIM/s400/ferrai350.jpg" style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" /></a>After a three week break, the F1 season resumed and Ferrari have picked up where they left off with their second 1-2 finish in a row with World Champion Kimi Raikkonen taking the chequered flag followed by team-mate Felipe Massa closely behind with Lewis Hamilton completing the podium. <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">For the last seven years the Barcelona Grand Prix has been won by the driver standing in pole position and Kimi wasn't about to let the run come to a halt. Despite the close times of the top drivers, the Flying Finn was always very comfortable with no real challenge coming from Massa for the lead.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Lewis Hamilton has had a troublesome few weeks after a disastrous Bahrain Grand Prix in which the Briton finished 13th resulting in a large amount of criticism coming his way. His third position came from a very solid race and could signal the return to form for last seasons runner up.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Things didn't go so well for his McLaren team-mate Heikki Kovalainen, who crashed out on lap 23 on turn nine when his MP4-23 suffered front left wheel failure sending the Finn into the tyre wall head on, fortunately he got away with a concussion.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The result extends Raikkonen's championship lead to nine points over Lewis who moves up to second, just one point ahead of Massa.</p> <h4 class="western">Full Results</h4> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"><col width="13*"> <col width="11*"> <col width="65*"> <col width="64*"> <col width="18*"> <col width="55*"> <col width="17*"> <col width="12*"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="5%"><strong>Pos</strong> </td> <td width="4%"><strong>No</strong> </td> <td width="26%"><strong>Driver</strong> </td> <td width="25%"><strong>Team</strong> </td> <td width="7%"><strong>Laps</strong> </td> <td width="22%"><strong>Time/Retired</strong> </td> <td width="7%"><strong>Grid</strong> </td> <td width="5%"><strong>Pts</strong> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">1 </td> <td width="4%">1 </td> <td width="26%">Kimi Räikkönen </td> <td width="25%">Ferrari </td> <td width="7%">66 </td> <td width="22%">1:38:19.051 </td> <td width="7%">1 </td> <td width="5%">10 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">2 </td> <td width="4%">2 </td> <td width="26%">Felipe Massa </td> <td width="25%">Ferrari </td> <td width="7%">66 </td> <td width="22%">+3.2 secs </td> <td width="7%">3 </td> <td width="5%">8 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">3 </td> <td width="4%">22 </td> <td width="26%">Lewis Hamilton </td> <td width="25%">McLaren-Mercedes </td> <td width="7%">66 </td> <td width="22%">+4.1 secs </td> <td width="7%">5 </td> <td width="5%">6 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">4 </td> <td width="4%">4 </td> <td width="26%">Robert Kubica </td> <td width="25%">BMW Sauber </td> <td width="7%">66 </td> <td width="22%">+5.6 secs </td> <td width="7%">4 </td> <td width="5%">5 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">5 </td> <td width="4%">10 </td> <td width="26%">Mark Webber </td> <td width="25%">Red Bull-Renault </td> <td width="7%">66 </td> <td width="22%">+35.9 secs </td> <td width="7%">7 </td> <td width="5%">4 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">6 </td> <td width="4%">16 </td> <td width="26%">Jenson Button </td> <td width="25%">Honda </td> <td width="7%">66 </td> <td width="22%">+53.0 secs </td> <td width="7%">13 </td> <td width="5%">3 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">7 </td> <td width="4%">8 </td> <td width="26%">Kazuki Nakajima </td> <td width="25%">Williams-Toyota </td> <td width="7%">66 </td> <td width="22%">+58.2 secs </td> <td width="7%">12 </td> <td width="5%">2 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">8 </td> <td width="4%">11 </td> <td width="26%">Jarno Trulli </td> <td width="25%">Toyota </td> <td width="7%">66 </td> <td width="22%">+59.4 secs </td> <td width="7%">8 </td> <td width="5%">1 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">9 </td> <td width="4%">3 </td> <td width="26%">Nick Heidfeld </td> <td width="25%">BMW Sauber </td> <td width="7%">66 </td> <td width="22%">+63.0 secs </td> <td width="7%">9 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">10 </td> <td width="4%">21 </td> <td width="26%">Giancarlo Fisichella </td> <td width="25%">Force India-Ferrari </td> <td width="7%">65 </td> <td width="22%">+1 Lap </td> <td width="7%">19 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">11 </td> <td width="4%">12 </td> <td width="26%">Timo Glock </td> <td width="25%">Toyota </td> <td width="7%">65 </td> <td width="22%">+1 Lap </td> <td width="7%">14 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">12 </td> <td width="4%">9 </td> <td width="26%">David Coulthard </td> <td width="25%">Red Bull-Renault </td> <td width="7%">65 </td> <td width="22%">+1 Lap </td> <td width="7%">17 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">13 </td> <td width="4%">18 </td> <td width="26%">Takuma Sato </td> <td width="25%">Super Aguri-Honda </td> <td width="7%">65 </td> <td width="22%">+1 Lap </td> <td width="7%">22 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">Ret </td> <td width="4%">7 </td> <td width="26%">Nico Rosberg </td> <td width="25%">Williams-Toyota </td> <td width="7%">41 </td> <td width="22%">Mechanical </td> <td width="7%">15 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">Ret </td> <td width="4%">5 </td> <td width="26%">Fernando Alonso </td> <td width="25%">Renault </td> <td width="7%">34 </td> <td width="22%">Engine </td> <td width="7%">2 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">Ret </td> <td width="4%">17 </td> <td width="26%">Rubens Barrichello </td> <td width="25%">Honda </td> <td width="7%">34 </td> <td width="22%">Accident </td> <td width="7%">11 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">Ret </td> <td width="4%">23 </td> <td width="26%">Heikki Kovalainen </td> <td width="25%">McLaren-Mercedes </td> <td width="7%">21 </td> <td width="22%">Accident </td> <td width="7%">6 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">Ret </td> <td width="4%">19 </td> <td width="26%">Anthony Davidson </td> <td width="25%">Super Aguri-Honda </td> <td width="7%">8 </td> <td width="22%">Radiator damage </td> <td width="7%">21 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">Ret </td> <td width="4%">14 </td> <td width="26%">Sebastien Bourdais </td> <td width="25%">STR-Ferrari </td> <td width="7%">7 </td> <td width="22%">Accident </td> <td width="7%">16 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">Ret </td> <td width="4%">6 </td> <td width="26%">Nelsinho Piquet </td> <td width="25%">Renault </td> <td width="7%">6 </td> <td width="22%">Accident </td> <td width="7%">10 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">Ret </td> <td width="4%">20 </td> <td width="26%">Adrian Sutil </td> <td width="25%">Force India-Ferrari </td> <td width="7%">0 </td> <td width="22%">Accident </td> <td width="7%">20 </td> <td width="5%"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td width="5%">Ret </td> <td width="4%">15 </td> <td width="26%">Sebastian Vettel </td> <td width="25%">STR-Ferrari </td> <td width="7%">0 </td> <td width="22%">Accident </td> <td width="7%">18</td></tr></tbody></table>

Raikkonen Wins Spanish GP

After a three week break, the F1 season resumed and Ferrari have picked up where they left off with their second 1-2 finish in a row with Wo...

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2009 AUDI A3 FOR USA TO LAUNCH IN FALL 2008

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-1YGYdw4HPQ1aOcrS8MWBnIdOmzzUFilkMRi63x6hNPAnbPke2qhKDQlyaKIkEQfuOpaDZ6yzqGLWAPbl3n88Z1vE3EiMGkoKA2BuTLlPgnXPd6fOsqL12Cr-0V9b2JypE_j3sckZBqR/s1600-h/a3080010_medium.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193080433065265650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-1YGYdw4HPQ1aOcrS8MWBnIdOmzzUFilkMRi63x6hNPAnbPke2qhKDQlyaKIkEQfuOpaDZ6yzqGLWAPbl3n88Z1vE3EiMGkoKA2BuTLlPgnXPd6fOsqL12Cr-0V9b2JypE_j3sckZBqR/s400/a3080010_medium.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />- Innovative high-tech concepts in the 2009 model year<br />- Expressive exterior design, elegantly sporty interior<br />- S tronic transmission, Audi magnetic ride and efficient engines<br /><br />Ingolstadt – The Audi A3, offered in the USA exclusively with the five-door body style, raises its sporty profile with a raft of improvements and an accentuated design. Innovative technologies such as the S tronic dual-clutch transmission and Audi magnetic ride, the suspension control system, makes for even greater driving pleasure. Its sharper, more striking design lends even greater expression to the A3. Dealer deliveries will coincide with the change of the model year, around September 2008, with pricing and equipment not yet finalized for the USA.<br /><br />The Audi A3 strengthened the premium compact car segment upon its debut in 2005 in the USA. Since its worldwide market introduction in 1996, 1.9 million units of the Audi A3 have been built. After four successive record-breaking years, the one millionth second-generation A3 – which went into production in 2003 in Europe and 2005 in USA as a five-door – left the assembly line just a few days ago. Audi is now solidifying its lead.<br /><br /><br />The exterior: even sportier profile<br /><br />New visual details for the five-door A3 bring its stretched, sporty profile into the foreground. The front lid and fenders are more expressively styled, and the bumper and large single-frame radiator grille have been modified. A curved trim element in the headlamps known as the "wing" accentuates their technical perfection. Daytime running lights are standard features, and the optional bi-xenon headlamps incorporate LEDs. Down the sides, the highlight features are exterior mirrors with integral turn indicators, new door handles and attractive wheels.<br /><br />At the tail end, the modified bumper and the lights help this car make a grand exit; the five-door A3 now has innovative fiber optic rods arranged in a flat, continuous strip that creates an impressive optical effect in the dark. The sporty proportions of the five-door A3 remain virtually unchanged at 4.29 meters (168.90 in) in length.<br /><br />The interior: sporty elegance<br /><br />Inside the car, too, the designers fine-tuned the atmosphere of sporty elegance. Aluminum-look elements on the air vents, light switches and center console accentuate the premium character of the Audi A3. The switches and controls beneath the audio system have been given a new, modern look. The instruments have black dials and red needles to reinforce the impression of precision and advanced technology, and a shift indicator displays the recommended gear in any given circumstances in the driver information system.<br />The A3's trunk is the roomiest in its class, at 370 to 1,100 liters (13.06 to 38.83 cubic ft.) on the five-door A3. On quattro versions, the trunk floor is a few centimeters higher, to accommodate the special rear axle. Audi can also supply the options of a panoramic sunroof for the versatile five-door A3.<br /><br />Powerful drive: the engines<br /><br />As before, Audi is bringing the five-door A3 onto the U.S. market with two different gasoline engines. The 2.0 TFSI has 200 hp, while the 3.2 quattro with its six cylinders musters 250 hp.<br /><br />High tech from Audi: the new transmissions<br /><br />The range of transmissions has been extended and become even more appealing. The 2.0 TFSI engine is supplied as standard with six-speed manual transmission, and the 3.2 is available exclusively with the S tronic dual-clutch transmission, now also available for all engine versions. The high-tech S tronic changes gears with extreme speed and smoothness. The driver can set it to operate in a fully automatic mode or change gears manually – either at the selector lever or with the standard shift paddles on the leather sport steering wheel.<br /><br />The S tronic on the six-cylinder engine and the 2.0 TFSI has six speeds. Its clutches are dry-running – an innovative approach. This means that they do not need a separate oil supply, further adding to their already impressive efficiency.<br /><br />New for the five-door A3 is the 2.0 TFSI quattro, available exclusively with S tronic transmission. In its latest technical form, the central hydraulic multi-plate clutch responds even faster when the engine's power needs to be redistributed between the front and rear wheels. This increases stability, traction and driving pleasure for the driver.<br /><br />The standard-fit dynamic suspension, too, provides safety, dynamic handling and comfort all rolled into one. The captivating precision with which the five-door A3 handles and its well-balanced character owe a great deal to elaborate concepts such as the four-link rear suspension and the efficient electromechanical power steering. There is optional sport suspension that supports the body 15 millimeters (0.59 in) lower.<br /><br />Way ahead of the competition: Audi magnetic ride<br /><br />There is another new feature that puts the five-door A3 ahead of its challengers: The adaptive-action shock absorber control system by the name of Audi magnetic ride. This system overcomes the age-old conflict between dynamic behavior and ride comfort. The driver can choose between "Normal" and "Sport" programs by flipping a switch. A magneto-rheological fluid circulating in the shock absorbers changes its flow properties within milliseconds when a voltage is applied; this affects the damping characteristic, which can be varied from comfortably supple to crisply firm. In the U.S., this is optional on both 2.0 TFSI, and the top 3.2 version.<br /><br />Pricing and equipment will be available in Fall 2008 upon arrival at U.S. dealers.<br />Source:Audi<br /><br /><center><a href="http://img129.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=1054125592"><img src="http://img129.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/1054125592.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img124.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=305953875"><img src="http://img124.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/305953875.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img131.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=1510672149"><img src="http://img131.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/1510672149.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img129.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=1733058984"><img src="http://img129.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/1733058984.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img131.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=407901615"><img src="http://img131.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/407901615.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img124.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=510948173"><img src="http://img124.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/510948173.jpeg" /></a> </center><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Related entries:</span><br /><a href="http://cars-space.blogbus.com/logs/19739286.html">NEW 2009 AUDI A3 (SPORTBACK) - PRODUCT SUMMARY - USA</a>

2009 AUDI A3 FOR USA TO LAUNCH IN FALL 2008

- Innovative high-tech concepts in the 2009 model year - Expressive exterior design, elegantly sporty interior - S tronic transmission, Audi...

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VW Jetta BlueTDI for the North American market

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnCU7SXJFaTOHIzXVbl5Paf2bLW3oOSEkyNNE_gM5hpFU2THS8rpy0HSdVFsdm_K0Mt1T451vSc-iBHx2J5zU2Aw0uPId33qi6vJHw2JxSQ5r-m1sdvxW3jI59GJbWvcFaSYk9BQI4al3/s1600-h/080424002.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193057918846699986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnCU7SXJFaTOHIzXVbl5Paf2bLW3oOSEkyNNE_gM5hpFU2THS8rpy0HSdVFsdm_K0Mt1T451vSc-iBHx2J5zU2Aw0uPId33qi6vJHw2JxSQ5r-m1sdvxW3jI59GJbWvcFaSYk9BQI4al3/s400/080424002.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><br />At the International Vienna Motor Symposium (24-25 April), Volkswagen is to introduce the production version of the BlueTDI, a next-generation turbo diesel developed especially for the North American market. The common rail engine is based on the high-tech TDI, which was first introduced in Europe in 2007 with the Tiguan. This engine already satisfies the Euro-5 standard that comes into effect in autumn 2009. In order to meet specific operating conditions in the U.S., this four-cylinder engine was redeveloped with internal engine modifications and a NOx trap.<br />Background information: Five U.S. states1, including California, currently have the strictest emissions standards in the world (BIN5/LEV2). In spite of variations in fuel quality, which are more dramatic in the U.S. than in Europe, the new BlueTDI meets these emissions standards. The engine will debut in the U.S. Jetta this summer. For years, the Limousine has been the most popular and successful European-manufactured car on the American market, especially as a diesel.<br /><br />The Jetta BlueTDI will debut as one of the cleanest and most economic cars of its class in the world. In the run-up to the Vienna Motor Symposium, Dr. Ing. Jens Hadler, Director of Volkswagen Powertrain Development comments, “high fuel prices and a dramatic change in environmental consciousness means that diesel is becoming more and more attractive for American drivers every day.” Dr. Hadler continues, remarking, “this is why many customers, especially in California, have been waiting for a super-clean diesel like our BlueTDI. I think this motor will help the diesel get its big break in America because it consumes so little and yet can go such long distances on a single fill-up. And in a country as big as the United States, this is a priceless advantage. On the highway, for example, this engine can reach up to 60 miles per gallon. This is an improvement of 12 percent over its predecessor, which had a lower capacity and higher emissions.”<br /><br />A key aspect in the development of the BlueTDI (2.0 litre engine displacement, 103 kW/140 PS, 320 Nm) was the reduction of nitrogen oxide emissions (NOx); the American BIN5/LEV2 standards stipulate a nitrogen oxide limit of only 0.05 g/mile. The engineers in Wolfsburg met this limit and the general reduction of raw emissions by using internal engine modifications, some of which are unique worldwide, and implementing the maintenance-free NOx trap.<br /><br />These internal engine changes include modifications to the design of the injection system of both the American and European TDI as well as the implementation of cylinder pressure sensors. This allows for a completely new type of cylinder pressure-based combustion control, which is both faster and tailored to each specific cylinder. Also new on-board: an optimised high-pressure injection pump. Another unique feature is the combination of a high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation system with additional low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation. This dual exhaust gas recirculation (dual circuit EGR) is an effective means of reducing nitrogen oxides in the engine. The dual circuit EGR system alone reduces NOx by up to 60 percent.<br /><br />Outside of the engine, it is the NOx trap – connected downstream of the oxidation catalytic converter and the particle filter – that reduces nitrogen oxide to an absolute minimum. Implemented together, these measures reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 percent. Drive the Jetta BlueTDI and you will be driving one of the most economical and environmentally friendly cars in America.<br /><br />Source: Volkswagen

VW Jetta BlueTDI for the North American market

At the International Vienna Motor Symposium (24-25 April), Volkswagen is to introduce the production version of the BlueTDI, a next-generati...

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Officially Official: Corvette ZR1 makes 638 hp and 604 lb-ft

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqE8V8pXOLOz07YxtuGpFMUAQnCrNnvA0s0wglkwdkafcpbrXoJeDlRf4pYHcMWkgAotzoQjkbVwI73n2kfEU8nXpWRahI9fpyFr2-V8RKcdZCRPjLPZze4kXd-h8qdBMYKXKqpyKg1-l/s1600-h/x09pt_ar001_opt.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193051416266213826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqE8V8pXOLOz07YxtuGpFMUAQnCrNnvA0s0wglkwdkafcpbrXoJeDlRf4pYHcMWkgAotzoQjkbVwI73n2kfEU8nXpWRahI9fpyFr2-V8RKcdZCRPjLPZze4kXd-h8qdBMYKXKqpyKg1-l/s400/x09pt_ar001_opt.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br />When Chevrolet officially announced the new <a href="http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/19/detroit-2008-the-king-is-back-atop-the-hill-2009-corvette-zr1/">Corvette ZR1</a> just before the <a href="http://www.autoblog.com/category/Detroit-Auto-Show/">Detroit Auto Show</a> this year, it hadn't yet finished the certification of its new power-plant, the supercharged LS9. At that time, all the engineers would tell us was that the supercharged 6.2L V8 would produce a minimum of 100hp/L or 620 hp. Three months have passed since we got our first official look at the LS9 and the numbers are now in. According to GM, the LS9 has now been SAE Certified at 638 hp and 604 lb-ft of twist. The official EPA fuel economy testing hasn't been finished and for people who buy a ZR1 it probably won't matter anyway. Nonetheless, GM expects the LS9 to be the most fuel efficient 600+hp engine in the world, a dubious distinction if ever there was one. A special team of technicians will be hand-building and testing the LS9 at GM's Performance Build Center in Wixom, Mich. Check out the articles below f<br />or all the details on the ZR1 and LS9.<br />Source: General Motors via autoblog<br /><br /><center><a href="http://img131.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=934557853"><img src="http://img131.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/934557853.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img123.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=1036780443"><img src="http://img123.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/1036780443.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img123.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=1243348321"><img src="http://img123.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/1243348321.jpeg" /></a> <a href="http://img132.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=463511328"><img src="http://img132.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/463511328.jpeg" /></a><a href="http://img122.hotlinkimage.com/img.php?id=488320887"><img src="http://img122.hotlinkimage.com/thumb/488320887.jpeg" style="width: 128px; height: 80px;" /></a> </center>

Officially Official: Corvette ZR1 makes 638 hp and 604 lb-ft

When Chevrolet officially announced the new Corvette ZR1 just before the Detroit Auto Show this year, it hadn't yet finished the certi...

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TH!NK Vehicles Coming to America for 2009

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctFFYlJ0uyRSepaqKqJ5rjKJ4Hdg5RylJhCtOBsUx3L3CEJ1SeMjMuFB6li81s-rqyWAsm6mKxr6S0lnnpEswNUaK2yFhscix7kduIuxCVMfIsnoRD51h75RUm6trms-o3UTvBOedHexD/s1600-h/Think-City-i013.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192701277647342002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctFFYlJ0uyRSepaqKqJ5rjKJ4Hdg5RylJhCtOBsUx3L3CEJ1SeMjMuFB6li81s-rqyWAsm6mKxr6S0lnnpEswNUaK2yFhscix7kduIuxCVMfIsnoRD51h75RUm6trms-o3UTvBOedHexD/s400/Think-City-i013.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><div id="EchoTopic"><p>Norwegian electric car manufacturer has established TH!NK North America with the help of clean-tech investors RockPort Capital Partners and Kleiner Perkins, Caulfield and Byers. TH!NK currennnnnnnn offer one model, the city, which is currently produced and sold in Norway since fall last year. With sales set to commence this year for Switzerland, France and the rest of Scandinavian in 2008, North American sales will begin in 2009 along with Italy, Germany, Netherlands and UK. Production for the 4/5 passenger Ox model (pictured above) is expected to start in 2010/2011.<br /><br />After Tesla Motors backed out of a deal late last years to provide TH!NK with lithium-ion batteries, TH!NK announced at last months Geneva Motor Show a strategic partnership with General electric and US battery suppliers, A123 and EnerDel.<br /><br />As the first highway-capable electric vehicle intended for mass production, TH!NK's most efficient model is the city which is emission free and 95 percent recyclable. Capable of a top speed of 65 mph (100 km/h), a single charge allows a driving range of up to 110 miles (180 km). TH!NK city meets all European and US federal safety requirements.</p> </div><!-- google_ad_section_end --><div class="bottomarea">Source: TH!NK</div><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Related entries:</span><br /><a href="http://benzs.blogspot.com/2008/03/no-norwegian-electric-cars-thnk-again.html">No Norwegian Electric Cars? TH!NK Again…</a>

TH!NK Vehicles Coming to America for 2009

Norwegian electric car manufacturer has established TH!NK North America with the help of clean-tech investors RockPort Capital Partners and ...

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BMW E90 M3 Sedan

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCatZFY3yghFJMa7WDtwJvNoPyPSl0vdNg_imu6HPWnoUuWK8-bMcRqHAzggsq-y8tfjRcB1BBt7yIEBnXVlkCHEWQhhWLQXoWiyVln87TOi37t6k-Q92Ot1YHEukFJ97vrIJT7KBFEsFJ/s1600-h/9071006.001.Mini14L.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5195649923019901842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCatZFY3yghFJMa7WDtwJvNoPyPSl0vdNg_imu6HPWnoUuWK8-bMcRqHAzggsq-y8tfjRcB1BBt7yIEBnXVlkCHEWQhhWLQXoWiyVln87TOi37t6k-Q92Ot1YHEukFJ97vrIJT7KBFEsFJ/s400/9071006.001.Mini14L.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" /></a><br /><div id="EchoTopic"> <p><span class="article">Second body version of the new BMW M3। High-performance sedan from BMW M GmbH with unique design and technology, based on the BMW 3 Series Sedan.</span></p><p><span class="article">The unique character of the BMW M3 featuring supreme driving dynamics, outstanding aesthetic appeal, and a high standard of everyday driving qualities is now receiving an additional highlight in the guise of the four-door sedan: Supreme, individual style ensured by a consistent high-performance concept in conjunction with additional functionality, five seats, comfortable access to the rear.<br /><br /><b>2008 BMW M3 Sedan</b> is powered by BMW’s all-new 4.0-litre V8 developing maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm/295 lb-ft at 3,900 rpm. Maximum engine speed is 8,400 rpm, ensuring optimum power and performance throughout the entire speed range.<br /><br /> throttle butterflies, variable double-VANOS camshaft management, Brake Energy Regeneration, engine weight 15 kg (33 lb) lighter than the six-cylinder engine on the former model.<br /><br /> to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, top speed 250 km/h (155 mph) (limited electronically), average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle 12.4 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 22.8 mpg imp.manual six-speed gearbox with integrated, temperature-controlled oil cooling, two-disc clutch optimised for mass inertia.<br /><br /></span><span class="article">MDrive serving to set and retrieve the driver’s specific configuration of the engine control map, the suspension and DSC set-up, as well as the Servotronic control map as an additional option.</span><br /><span class="article"><br />All-new chassis and suspension with specific, weight-optimised components as well as BMW M axle kinematics for a highly dynamic driving experience, use of forged aluminium track control arms, compound high-performance brake system, optional EDC Electronic Damper Control with three selectable control maps.<br /><br />- Authentic BMW M design accentuating the car’s athletic stance, aluminium engine compartment lid with striking powerdome as a clear sign of superior muscle, characteristic front end with large air intakes, widely flared wheel arches.<br /><br />- “Gills” in the front side panels, M-specific side-sills even more widely flared towards the rear of the car highlighting the philosophy of rear-wheel drive, discreet spoiler lip reducing lift forces on the rear axle, dual tailpipes characteristic of BMW M.<br /><br />- 2008 BMW M3 Sedan with front-end design matching the Coupe as an expression of the specific look and high-performance character of the BMW M3; side-sills, “gills” and rear air dam in unique design oriented to the clear elegance so typical of a BMW Sedan.<br /><br />- Body structure with extremely high torsional strength and resistance; all-round occupant protection reflecting the very demanding safety standards of the BMW Group; six airbags, three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, belt latch tensioners, belt force limiters and central safety electronics for appropriate control and management of the car’s restraint systems all featured as standard; bi-xenon dual headlights featured as standard, optional Adaptive Headlights.<br /><br />- Interior in high quality and superior design with a wide range of customisation options; innovative colour and materials concept; five seats; BMW Individual High End Audio System with 9-channel amplifier and 16 high-performance loudspeakers as an option; model-specific paintwork and equipment variants underlining the exclusive character of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan.<br /><br />Top Athlete with Individual Character:<br />The new BMW M3 Sedan.<br /><br />The new BMW M3 Coupe offers unique power and performance combined with equally outstanding driving dynamics, almost unlimited muscle from the newly developed V8 power unit, and striking looks based on the athletic body of the BMW 3 Series Coupe already the winner of many prizes and awards. Clearly, therefore, the supremacy offered by BMW M’s new high-performance sports car both on the track and in everyday traffic leaves nothing to be desired. But one space still remains in the first row for another top athlete: the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan.<br /><br />So complementing the sporting and elegant Coupe, BMW M GmbH is now introducing the four-door version of the BMW M3 boasting the same drive technology and also developed as a new car from the ground up – another outstanding model featuring all the highlights typical of a BMW M Car but nevertheless conceived as a unique product personality.<br /><br />The 2008 BMW M3 Sedan is a high-performance car which, in its design and functions, sets new standards while remaining first and foremost a BMW M3 in its character – a car developed and built with the mission to convey the most demanding motorsport technology to everyday traffic, offering unique Sheer Driving Pleasure in the process.<br /><br />Thirteen years after the introduction of the first 2008 BMW M3 Sedan, the Coupe is now once again being joined by a four-door “brother” – a version particularly appealing to those fans of high-performance sports cars who attach great significance to everyday driving qualities and practical value.<br /><br />Indeed, all models from BMW M GmbH are characterised by the close connection between vast experience in motorsport and unique driving pleasure on the road. Their superior driving dynamics is based on drivetrain and suspension technology developed with all the know-how of motorsport, offering qualities the driver and his passengers will enjoy on every trip.<br /><br />The fascination created in this way is provided throughout a wide range of vehicle segments and body versions, as is clearly proven, for example, by the success of the BMW M5 Sedan.<br /><br />Now the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan likewise offers grand touring comfort for up to five occupants, with the rear doors facilitating access to the rear seats. So starting today the driver particularly committed to the well-being of his passengers likewise has every reason to choose the outstanding sportiness of a BMW M3.<br /><br />The 2008 BMW M3 Sedan owes its supreme driving dynamics to the new eight-cylinder power unit which, through its high engine speed concept alone, offers all the DNA of the current BMW Sauber F1 power unit. Applying this principle characteristic of BMW M engines, the V8, with its capacity of 3,999 cubic centimetres, develops maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp.<br /><br />Maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres/295 lb-ft is equally impressive, as is the maximum engine speed of 8,400 rpm.<br /><br />Perhaps the most outstanding and, indeed, unique forte of the new model is the tremendous thrust and power going to the rear wheels of the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan via the Variable M Differential Lock: The new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan offers not only breathtaking acceleration, but also huge, ongoing muscle in the process of developing truly outstanding performance. Acceleration to 100 km/h comes in just 4.9 seconds and continues with the same dynamism all the way to 250 km/h or 155 mph, where electronic engine control sets an artificial limit to the speed the car is able to achieve.<br /><br />Also on the four-door model: know-how from motorsport forms the foundation, uniqueness is the principle.<br /><br />Within the model range of BMW M GmbH, the BMW M3 has always been the model most directly related to motorsport through its DNA alone. This, indeed, applied right from the start to the first edition of the BMW M3 launched in 1986, then continuing through the two subsequent model generations and now being expressed just as clearly in the 2007 version of the BMW M3.<br /><br />So in any direct comparison of thoroughbred sports cars of the most classic style, the BMW M3 is always one of the top contenders for pole position.<br /><br />While the latest generation of the four-door BMW M3 was based in its process of development on the BMW 3 Series Sedan, this new model differs fundamentally from the “regular” Sedan in terms of both looks and technical features. Apart from unique design and drivetrain/chassis technology configured for precise performance of the highest calibre, lightweight engineering came right at the top for the engineers at BMW M in creating their new car. Indeed, implementing the development concept of intelligent lightweight technology consistently right from the start, the specialists at BMW M have reduced the car’s power-to-weight ratio to just 3.8 kilos/horsepower.<br /><br />Apart from the load-bearing structure of the car, only the doors, the roof, the luggage compartment lid, the windows and the rear lights come from the body of the “regular” BMW 3 Series Sedan. In other words, the number of body parts developed brand-new from the ground up is virtually as large as on the BMW M3 Coupe, which incidentally shares the striking and highly distinctive front section with the Sedan in its unique look.<br /><br />The Sedan is also recognisable as a BMW M3 at very first sight, characterised not only by the engine compartment lid with its striking powerdome and the two openings to the side, but also by the newly designed, function-oriented look of the front and rear air dams, the so-called “gills” in the front side panels also tailored to the Sedan, the side-sills, the rear-view mirrors, and the light-alloy rims in typical BMW M design.<br /><br />The exterior is both athletic and aesthetic in its appearance, again highlighting the sporting qualities of the car. And last but not least, the wide range of body colours gives each and every customer unique freedom of choice, with the new M3 Sedan available not only in four paintwork options exclusive to BMW M, but also many others colours and different shades.<br /><br />The interior: maximum driving pleasure for five.<br /><br /><br /><br />The interior also serves to offer the occupants maximum driving pleasure in a beautiful ambience tailored to their specific taste and preferences. This applies above all to the driver, benefiting from all the instruments and controls laid out directly for an active style of motoring and enjoying the supreme performance of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan.<br /><br />The cockpit of the new M3 Sedan is characterised by the double dial instruments typical of BMW M with their white illumination and red indicator needles, the M leather steering wheel and the newly designed centre console. The door cutout trim strips proudly bearing the BMW M3 logo both front and rear, the support for the driver’s left foot, the special colour scheme inside the doors, as well as trim bars exclusive to BMW M made of high-quality materials such as leather in carbon structure or aluminium, all underline the unique character of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan.<br /><br />Like in the Coupe, the driver and front passenger enjoy all the amenities of sports seats adjustable to a wide range of different settings and offering superior side support. The rear seat bench, in turn, able to accommodate up to three passengers, comes in the same surface contours as the rear seats in the BMW 3 Series Sedan, but with the seam pattern and special leather characteristic of BMW M Cars.<br /><br />The BMW M3 featuring an eight-cylinder power unit for the first time.<br /><br />After 15 years the straight-six power unit in the two preceding model generations of the BMW M3 lauded several times as the Engine of the Year, has now given way to an even more superior successor, the two model variants of the new BMW M3 featuring an eight-cylinder for the first time.<br /><br />Through its specifications alone, this brand-new high-performance power unit offers clear proof of the outstanding skills of the engine specialists at BMW M GmbH gained also in motorsport. Displacing 3,999 cc, the new V8 develops maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp and peak torque of 400 Newton-metres/295 lb-ft at an engine speed of 3,900 rpm. Perhaps an even more impressive point is that some 85 per cent of this maximum torque is available consistently all the way throughout the huge speed range of 6,500 rpm.<br /><br />The most striking highlight of the eight-cylinder is certainly the high-speed engine concept again so typical of BMW M: With the engine revving up all the way to 8,400 rpm, it obviously offers immense power and torque at all speeds. This power is fed to the rear wheels by a six-speed manual gearbox as well as brand-new final drive, a combination offering a standard of acceleration quite comparable in its spontaneity and endurance to the dynamic potential of a fully-fledged racing car.<br /><br />Apart from specific output of 105 hp per litre, average fuel consumption determined in the EU test cycle of just 12.4 litres/100 km, equal to 22.8 mpg imp, clearly expresses the supreme engineering skills of the engine development specialists at BMW M GmbH. Indeed, this kind of economy confirms the remarkable efficiency of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan in the world of high-performance sports cars, particularly when also considering the space available in the car.<br /><br />The V8 power unit featured in the new BMW M3 is a genuine lightweight weighing only 202 kg or 445 lb. In fact, it is even some 15 kg or 33 lb lighter than the six-cylinder in the former model.<br /><br />Production of components with know-how from Formula 1.<br /><br />The engine block of the new eight-cylinder comes from BMW’s light-alloy foundry in Landshut, which also makes the engine block for the BMW Sauber F1 racing cars. The crankcase is made of a special aluminium-silicon alloy, eliminating the need for conventional cylinder liners. Instead, the appropriate cylinder surface is provided by releasing and exposing the hard silicon crystals, the iron-coated pistons running directly in the honed cylinder bores without any additional surface coating.<br /><br />High engine speeds and high combustion pressure obviously cause extreme loads acting on the crankcase, which is therefore particularly compact and torsionally rigid in its bedplate design, ensuring very precise and smooth balance of the crankshaft. A further point is that the forged crankshaft is very stiff and highly resistant to both flexural and torsional forces, but nevertheless weighs only about 20 kg or 44 lb.<br /><br />Valve management by double-VANOS operating at low oil pressure.<br /><br />The V8 power unit within the engine compartment of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan boasts BMW’s variable double-VANOS camshaft management. Offering extremely fast and responsive valve timing, this technology reduces charge cycle losses and improves the output, torque and response of the engine in the process, with a positive influence also on fuel economy and emission management. Focusing especially on the new eight-cylinder, the engineers at BMW M GmbH have indeed developed a low-pressure version of double-VANOS ensuring extremely quick valve timing even under normal engine oil pressure.<br /><br />A separate throttle butterfly for each cylinder is a feature quite unique not only with racing engines when it comes to achieving highly spontaneous and direct performance with immediate reaction to the gas pedal at all times.<br /><br />The new power unit features eight individual throttle butterflies, one on each cylinder. In each case two step motors operate the four throttle butterflies on each row of cylinders, giving the engine a particularly sensitive response at low speeds together with an immediate reaction whenever the driver presses down the accelerator for extra power and performance.<br /><br />A volume flow-controlled pendulum slide cell pump supplies the eight cylinders with lubricating oil, delivering exactly the quantity required by the engine. Wet sump oil lubrication optimised for dynamic performance, in turn, ensures a consistent lubricating process also in extreme braking manoeuvres, the system as such featuring two oil sumps: a small oil sump in front of the front axle subframe and a large oil sump further back. A separate duocentric reflow pump, finally, extracts oil from the front oil sump and pumps it to the oil sump further back.<br /><br />New engine management and Brake Energy Regeneration.<br /><br />The electronic management of the V8 power unit coordinating all engine functions with optimum efficiency is likewise a new, even more sophisticated development. This electronic “brain” also supports the M-specific functions of the clutch, the gearbox, the steering and brakes, and last but not least the engine control unit performs a wide range of on-board diagnosis functions and masterminds the ancillary engine units.<br /><br />A particular highlight in engine management is the use of ion current technology serving to determine engine knocking as well as misfiring and miscombustion in the cylinders. Contrary to conventional methods, this monitoring and control function is performed precisely where the phenomena involved may occur, that is within the combustion chambers. To do this the spark plug in each cylinder senses and controls the risk of knocking, at the same time monitoring the correct ignition and recognising any misfiring.<br /><br />In other words, the spark plug acts as an actuator for the ignition and as a sensor monitoring the combustion process, and is therefore able to distinguish between misfiring and miscombustion.<br /><br />This dual function of the spark plugs obviously facilitates the diagnostic procedures required in service and maintenance.<br /><br />Intelligent energy management with Brake Energy Regeneration enhances the efficiency of the V8 power unit in the new M3 Sedan to an even higher level, concentrating the generation of electric power for the on-board network on periods of overrun and application of the brakes. This serves to charge the car’s battery without directly using the energy contained in the fuel.<br /><br />As long as the engine is pulling the car, on the other hand, the generator is usually disengaged. Which means that apart from the particularly efficient generation of electric power, the driver also benefits from even more engine power when accelerating.<br /><br />Aluminium chassis for supreme driving pleasure.<br /><br />Separating steering and drive forces on the front and rear axle, a BMW offers ideal qualities from the start for particularly dynamic driving behaviour.<br /><br />The chassis and suspension of the BMW M3 are brand-new developments from the ground up once again modified in a number of details versus the configuration chosen on the Coupe in order to make allowance for the particular weight balance of the four-door model.<br /><br />The general objective in developing the chassis and suspension of the Sedan was not just to adjust all features to the extremely high power of the engine and the drive forces encountered on the road, but also to save weight all round – which is why nearly all components on the newly developed front axle are made of aluminium: Among others, the even stiffer spring struts, the swivel bearings, the central carrier element and an additional thrust panel increasing the lateral stiffness of the entire front section are all made of this lightweight material.<br /><br />Even the high-performance brake system with its compound discs allows a further reduction of weight versus the brakes on the former model, made possible by the engineers at BMW M GmbH.<br /><br />From the rear axle subframe through the transverse arms and track arms made of aluminium, on to the wheel mounts re-configured in their kinematics and stiffness, the mounting points for the longitudinal arms now even lower down, all the way to the aluminium dampers and the hollow anti-roll bar resting on new mounts, virtually every detail on the five-arm rear axle made in lightweight technology is a new development.<br /><br />The result, in terms of both stability and weight, offers all the qualities and features requirements which follow from the concept of the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan, production of all aluminium track arms as forgings interacting with the aluminium dampers serving to reduce the weight of these components versus the “regular” BMW 3 Series Sedan by 2.5 kg.<br /><br />Both the front and rear axle feature hollow anti-roll bars optimised for their function and weight, the change in geometry – incorporating, inter alia, two additional longitudinal reinforcement bars – providing axle kinematics perfectly tailored to the overall character of the car, together with the superior power of the engine and the particularly sporting character of the BMW M3 right from the start.<br /><br />Variable M Differential Lock for perfect traction on the rear wheels.<br /><br />The new final drive comes with a Variable M Differential Lock also on the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan generating up to 100 per cent locking action with fully variable action whenever required and thus ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces.<br /><br />The Variable M Differential Lock responds to differences in speed between the right and left rear wheel, a solution ideally supplementing the positive qualities of rear-wheel drive.<br /><br />The new BMW M3 comes as standard on light-alloy wheels in special M design, with 8.5 x 18-inch rims running on 245/40 low-profile tyres at the front and 9.5 x 18-inch rims teaming up with 265/40 tyres at the rear.<br /><br />The result of this comprehensive chassis and suspension development also comes out clearly on the stop-watch, with the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan achieving almost the same lap times on the Nordschleife – the Northern Circuit – of Nürburgring, the benchmark for all cars from BMW M GmbH, as the Coupe, significantly outperforming the speed and lap times of former BMW M3 model generations.<br /><br />Servotronic with two manually adjustable control maps.<br /><br />Rear wheel drive keeps the rack-and-pinion steering of the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan free of drive forces. A further enhancement is hydraulic Servotronic power assistance controlling steering forces as a function of road speed – and with BMW iDrive enabling the driver to choose and vary the degree of power assistance himself. There is also a choice of two different control maps activated through the Normal and, respectively, the Sports mode.<br /><br />In the Sports mode the BMW M3 maintains its very direct feeling and feedback on road conditions, enabling the driver to steer the car with utmost precision on winding country roads and at high speeds. In the Normal mode, on the other hand, steering power assistance is more comfort-oriented, enabling the driver to park the car, for example, smoothly and with far less effort.<br /><br />Latest-generation of Dynamic Stability Control.<br /><br />Electronic driving dynamics programs support the driver of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan in all kinds of situations extending all the way to the absolute limit in driving physics. DSC Dynamic Stability Control, as one example, permanently monitors the driving condition of the car, intervening in the individual brakes whenever required and reducing drive power in order to stabilise the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan, thus serving, inter alia, to counteract any over- or understeer in bends in good time.<br /><br />Further systems integrated in Dynamic Stability Control are the ABS anti-lock brakes, ASC Automatic Stability Control preventing the wheels from spinning on surfaces with reduced traction, a Start-Off Assistant preventing the car from rolling back when setting off on an uphill gradient, as well as CBC Cornering Brake Control preventing the car from spinning or swerving out of control when applying the brakes in a bend.<br /><br />Now enhanced to an even higher standard, DSC Dynamic Stability Control comprises additional functions for even greater driving safety: Whenever the driver is likely to apply the brakes in full within the next few seconds, the system builds up pressure in the hydraulic brake circuit in good time and pre-loads the brake pads to ensure an immediate response and significantly shorten the stopping distance required. Regular Dry Braking in wet conditions, finally, serves to ensure immediate application of the brakes without restriction by removing a possible film of water from the brake discs.<br /><br />Electronic Damper Control recognising the driver’s style of motoring.<br /><br />As an option the dampers on the new BMW M3 may be fitted with EDC Electronic Damper Control with electrohydraulic adjustment of damper forces not only optimising vertical vibration behaviour when driving fast and dynamically, but also significantly reducing any squat and dive motion when accelerating and applying the brakes.<br /><br />The response of all dynamic driving systems is carefully tailored to the supreme power and performance of the new BMW M3, with electronic intervention of the various systems naturally taking the outstanding dynamism of the car into account. Indeed, the driver even has the option to individually configure specific parameters, thus adjusting the response of the car to his personal preferences.<br /><br />One example is that the driver can completely deactivate Dynamic Stability Control simply by pressing a button in the centre console. Clearly, this allows the particularly ambitious driver to push the new BMW M3 with its incredible dynamic potential all the way to the extreme limit, giving the experienced driver the opportunity on the race track to enjoy dynamic bends, the very best in driving dynamics, and unique performance all the way.<br /><br />Yet a further option is to adjust the operation of Electronic Damper Control to the driver’s individual preferences, giving him the three driving modes Normal, Comfort and Sports chosen just as conveniently simply by pressing a button on the centre console.<br /><br />In its general setting EDC on the new BMW M3 is of course sporting and dynamic from the start, befitting a car of this calibre – meaning that this setting is maintained also in the Sports mode. But should the driver not wish to enjoy a particularly dynamic damper setting in specific situations, he is able to switch over to either the Normal or the Comfort mode.<br /><br />In these two modes the dampers act and respond in an adaptive process adjusting quickly and sensitively to any change in the driver’s style of motoring. As soon as higher steering angle speeds indicate, for example, that the driver is switching over to a more dynamic style on winding roads, damper force is increased automatically, EDC adopting a damper control map like the Sports mode, regardless of the setting currently chosen.<br /><br />Given these qualities, EDC perfectly supports a spontaneous changeover from more comfortable cruising to a sporting and more active style of motoring, the intelligent management of the car’s damper systems reflecting the all-round character of the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan prepared at all times for sporting performance of the highest standard.<br /><br />MDrive button for the ambitious, sports-minded driver.<br /><br />On the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan the iDrive control system can be enhanced to an even higher level by adding the very special MDrive function. This gives the driver the option to choose his personalised setting for all dynamic driving systems open to individual configuration, thus benefiting from perfect set-up of the car tailored to his preferences.<br /><br />This customised configuration of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan is automatically saved within the system and can be called up immediately at any time simply by pressing the MDrive button on the multifunction steering wheel – regardless of the system settings previously chosen. This allows the driver to enjoy the versatile character of his car with all its features and facets, changing to his own, very personal set-up of the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan simply at the touch of a button. And as an exclusive feature available only through MDrive, the driver can choose the Sports Plus engine map, the M Dynamic DSC mode, as well as the Sports Servotronic control map.<br /><br />No less than three control maps are available via the M Drive system for controlling the engine with maximum efficiency. These control maps act not only on the position of the throttle butterflies in the intake manifold, but also on other parameters noticeably changing engine response and behaviour.<br /><br />Torsion-proof bodyshell as the basis for superior occupant safety.<br /><br />The torsion-proof body structure as well restraint and safety systems activated electronically according to individual requirements ensure a high standard of passive safety and complete, all-round occupant protection in the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan.<br /><br />Together with exactly defined deformation zones, the use of high-strength steel for the extra-large bearer arms guarantees smooth and direct transmission of forces in a collision and, respectively, optimum absorption of loads acting on the car. The space available for deformation is also used in full to avoid any damage to the passenger cell and keep damage to the body itself to a minimum even in a severe collision.<br /><br />The electronic restraint systems in the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan are perfectly tailored to the ultra-strong structure of the body. No less than six airbags as well as the belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters are activated by the car’s central safety electronics as a function of the type and severity of a collision. Sensors in the centre of the car, in the B-pillars and in the doors “tell” the safety electronics which component will offer the occupants optimum protection, with only the restraint systems really required being activated in the event of a collision.<br /><br />The driver and front passenger are protected by frontal airbags and hip thorax airbags housed in the seat backrests. These four airbags are activated in two stages, depending on the severity of the impact.<br /><br />Through its size alone, the curtain head airbag protects the car’s occupants on both the front and the outer rear seats. And the risk of leg injury in a head-on collision, finally, is reduced on the driver’s side by defined deformation of the footrest.<br /><br />Athletic body design as a clear expression of superior power.<br /><br />The exterior of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan was designed and developed from the start to give the car a unique and truly sporting look.<br /><br />In designing the body of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan, the designers at BMW M GmbH have applied the principle of “form follows function”, translating appropriate technical solutions into an authentic, sporting look.<br /><br />The front end of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan presents that special “face” so typical of BMW M3. The engine compartment lid, made of aluminium, for example, boasts a large powerdome in the middle, clearly bearing testimony, together with the openings at the side, to the huge potential of the eight-cylinder housed within.<br /><br />The contours of both the powerdome and the air intakes follow the forward-pushing arrow shape of the engine compartment lid, blending harmoniously with the entire front end of the car longer than on the “regular” BMW 3 Series Sedan.<br /><br />Front end feeding the high-performance engine with adequate air.<br /><br />The front end of the car incorporates three large air intakes beneath the radiator grille feeding the power unit with intake and cooling air. The air scoops border at the side on large, vertical bars further enhancing the design language so characteristic of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan. Together with the double kidney grille so typical of BMW and the flat headlight units with their bi-xenon headlights featured as standard, these highlights in design give the new BMW M3 a truly dynamic look full of power and performance.<br /><br />The structure and configuration of the front end is determined primarily by the supply of air required by such a high-performance engine, nearly the entire front end opening up to feed air to the naturally aspirated power unit. Precisely this is why the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan, like BMW M Cars in general, intentionally does without the foglamps featured on the BMW 3 Series in general.<br /><br />In their function and size, all air intakes are precisely defined according to technical requirements. They are arranged and dimensioned to precisely meet all of the cooling and intake air requirements of the engine and its ancillaries.<br /><br />Side-line: typical M features combined with the design language of a BMW Sedan.<br /><br />The powerfully chiselled front wheel arches on the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan clearly symbolise supreme agility and driving stability at all times. Together with the weight-optimised 18-inch light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, they underline the very wide and muscular track of the car.<br /><br />Forged light-alloy wheels measuring 19 inches are available as an option, allowing the beholder to look through the spokes at the compound high-performance brakes developed exclusively for BMW M cars.<br /><br />The two front side panels boast a special sign of distinction characteristic of a BMW M Car and referred to by the designers as “gills”: The elaborately chiselled contours of these air intakes help to add a further dynamic touch to the body-line at the side, the chrome bracket split up into individual sections enhancing the three-dimensional structure of this element.<br /><br />Deviating from their design on BMW M3 Coupe, the gills on the side panel of the Sedan are more horizontal in shape, the bracket accommodating both the stretched form of the direction indicator and the BMW M3 logo.<br /><br />Rear-view mirrors developed exclusively for the new BMW M3 fulfil an important aerodynamic function also on the Sedan. A characteristic feature in this case is the black-coloured double bar reminiscent in its shape to the wings of a plane.<br /><br />Through their horizontal light contour line and their shape tapering to the outside, the rear-view mirrors not only accentuate the sporting look of the car, but also help to reduce air resistance thanks to this special design optimised in the wind tunnel.<br /><br />Further down the side-line, the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan again boasts the signs of an athletic performer so typical of a BMW M Car, in this case integrated harmoniously into the design language of a BMW Sedan. The pronounced side-sills, for example, give the BMW M3 a light and sporting look.<br /><br />And contrary to the design of the Coupe, the light contour line flowing back in an absolutely straight design runs parallel to the body-line, this parallel arrangement again highlighting the harmonious and well-balanced character of the Sedan.<br /><br />The play of light and shade created in this way gives the entire car a particularly dynamic flair from the side again bearing unique testimony to the four-door model in its particular design and character.<br /><br />Discreet spoiler lip and rear diffuser for optimum aerodynamics.<br /><br />The new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan looks just as superior and muscular from behind, its design taking up the particular look of the car’s front end.<br /><br />Compared with the Coupe, the surfaces at the rear end of the Sedan show an even clearer horizontal structure corresponding to the smooth balance also presented from the size and emphasizing the sheer width of the rear end.<br /><br />A discreet gurney flap on the luggage compartment lid optimises the car’s streamlining and reduces lift on the rear axle to an even lower level.<br /><br />In its contours, the split diffuser beneath the bumper takes up the shape of the air intakes at the front of the car, the air guide duct and the dual tailpipes moved far towards the centreline of the car visually contracting the rear end at the lower centrepoint, building up exciting optical tension guiding the eyes of the beholder to the horizontal lines of the bumper.<br /><br />A further feature is the circular shape of the four tailpipes cut off straight at the back in typical BMW M style, the entire rear end bearing a clear focus to the wheels of the car and emanating a powerful stance.<br /><br />Special BMW M body colours highlighting the car’s exclusivity.<br /><br />The new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan is available in four special metallic paintwork colours reserved for BMW M Cars and highlighting the body, contours and proportions of the car with particular intensity. Through its light shimmer, Melbourne Red combines supreme brilliance with unique depth of colour. Jerez Black, on the other hand, incorporating blue pearl pigments, also offers an interesting nuance, while powerful Interlagos Blue, mixed with red colour pigments, offers a highly attractive, interchanging violet effect. Silverstone, a bright silver with a slight touch of blue, is already well-known from the BMW M5 and the BMW M6.<br /><br />Over and above these special colours, the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan is also available in Alpine White and Black as well as Space Grey metallic, the various body colours highlighting either the technical and sporting character or the superior and elegant appearance of the car.<br /><br />Interior design: oriented in full to an active driving experience.<br /><br />With the exterior impressively symbolising the performance and sporting qualities of the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan, the interior enhances this appearance with the objective to offer the driver a truly outstanding experience at the wheel and give all the passengers a wonderful ambience tailored to their personal wishes.<br /><br />The five seats are surrounded by powerful contours and flowing lines highlighting in particular the concave and convex surfaces. The horizontal lines dominating the area around the dashboard as well as the harmonious surfaces of the side linings, on the other hand, give the interior a particularly dynamic note.<br /><br />The cockpit control area tapers out between the front seats into a newly designed centre console which, in its entire geometry, discreetly “swings” towards the driver. Finished in black leather, the console harmoniously continues the instrument surrounds and the control area in terms of both colour and shape, comprising three function switches (Power, DSC, and optional EDC) for activating and deactivating the electronic driving programs on the side facing the driver.<br /><br />Apart from the clear design and optimum ergonomic arrangement of all controls and instruments, the choice of colours inside the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan helps the driver concentrate on driving conditions and the current driving experience: Regardless of the upholstery and trim colour chosen, the footwells and parcel shelf as well as the upper part of the instrument panel are finished in Anthracite. At the same time the dark roof lining and the trim on the A-pillars in the same colour accentuate the clear orientation to the driver so typical of BMW M. Indeed, precisely this uniform, dark colour scheme around the windscreen helps the driver in focusing his full concentration on the road. And the colour scheme also gives the front passenger and rear-seat passengers the experience of sitting in a genuine sports car.<br /><br />BMW M all the way: rev counter with a variable warning zone.<br /><br />Right from the start when getting into the car, the door cutout strips proudly bearing the M logo highlight the unique character of the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan. The dual circular instruments typical of BMW – the speedometer and fuel gauge as well as the rev counter and oil temperature display – also come in specific M style, clearly visualising the power and performance potential of the eight-cylinder power unit. The figures presented stand out clearly in white from the black background, the indicator needles in the traditional red of BMW M GmbH are particularly clear and easy to follow.<br /><br />A feature typical of BMW M Cars is the variable warning zone in the rev counter informing the driver while the engine is warming up of the recommended engine speed range depending on the current engine oil temperature: The borderline between the yellow pre-warning zone and the red warning zone moves up in the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan as a function of increasing oil temperature all the way to the maximum limit of 8,400 rpm.<br /><br />The digital displays presenting the time, the outside temperature and mileage counter, as well as the various telltale lights, are positioned between the two circular instruments.<br /><br />The M leather steering wheel is the perfect interface between the driver and his car. The steering wheel rim with its thumb contours resting firmly in the driver’s hands provides an optimum grip for precise movement of the steering wheel. The spokes within the steering wheel, in turn, incorporate the remote control buttons for the audio system and mobile telephone and, as an option, the MDrive button activating the car set-up saved in advance. Yet a further button may be freely programmed through BMW iDrive.<br /><br />As an option both the driver’s and front passenger’s seats are available with backrest width adjustment, while the rear seats may be equipped as an option with through-loading. This gives the 450-litre (15.8 cu ft) luggage compartment even grater capacity, facilitating the accommodation of particularly bulky luggage such as extra-large sports equipment.<br /><br />Wide range of customisation options for the interior.<br /><br />The new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan is available in three exclusive upholstery and trim variants differing significantly in their material, colour and finish from the “regular” upholstery and trim in the BMW 3 Series: The sporting “foundation” is the Speed combination of cloth and leather. Then, as an option, the BMW M3 is available with newly developed, fully tanned Novillo leather offering a particularly smooth and velvety surface with a high standard of elegance and sportiness.<br /><br />Apart from classic Black, Novillo leather comes in Palladium Silver, Bamboo Beige and Fox Red.<br /><br />As an enhanced option, the range of Novillo leather upholstery and trim may also be extended to the lower section of the instrument panel, the cover on the glove compartment, and the side panels on the centre console.<br /><br />A choice of four exclusive trim strips extending across the entire width of the dashboard beneath the Control Display and instrument cluster offers further options in customising the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan. In standard trim, the car comes with interior trim bars in Titanium Shadow. The three versions available as an option are Aluminium Shadow and leather tanned in Carbon Grain as well as a high-class wood option in finely grained plane-tree wood finished in Anthracite.<br /><br />All of these trim options give the interior of the new BMW M3 Salon its own very special touch ranging from cool and technical all the way to elegant and sporting.<br /><br />BMW Individual High End Audio System for a perfect experience in acoustics.<br /><br />The new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan comes as standard with a high-class audio system and with various navigation systems available as an option.<br /><br />Various navigation systems, the BMW Online mobile internet portal, the BMW Assist telematics service and BMW TeleServices for wireless transmission of service-relevant data to the customer’s BMW Service Partner are all available as additional options.<br /><br />As yet a further option the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan may also be fitted with the BMW Individual High End Audio System developed by BMW M GmbH and tailored exclusively to this very special car. In this case no less than 16 high-performance loudspeakers with neodym magnetic drive and extremely stiff hexacone membranes, a digital nine-channel amplifier with maximum output of 825 W and extra-precise frequency switches guarantee incomparable quality of sound.<br /><br />A feature absolutely unique in the world of motoring is Dirac Live technology serving to process the sound signals. This special technology corrects the loudspeaker pulse response, ensuring linear and exactly timed reproduction of sound within the interior. Indeed, the quality of sound and the precise pulse control in the playback process guaranteed in this way will thrill not only the driver, but all occupants in the new 2008 BMW M3 Sedan, offering an extremely entertaining and dynamic experience of sound.<br /><br />Over and above this top-end technology, an optimum listening experience is ensured in all situations by speed-related volume control and speed-related equalising.<br /><br />The BMW Individual High End Audio System is masterminded by the iDrive Controller, with its basic functions being controlled, as with all entertainment systems, by the audio control buttons on the centre console.<br /><br />A BMW M3 at first sight, a four-door-saloon the second time around.<br /><br />Only rarely does a wider choice of models make the final decision easier – but precisely this is the case with the new BMW M3: Extending the M3 model family to two body versions, BMW M GmbH is now able to focus once again on an even larger target group for the Company’s high-performance sports cars.<br /><br />Following the tradition of all BMW M Models, the M3 Coupe from the start offers everything required to enjoy unique driving dynamics on the road.<br /><br />And although the BMW M3, in its dynamic power and performance, can only be used in full on the race track, this outstanding new car clearly stands for particularly fascinating driving pleasure also in city traffic and on country roads through its impressive supremacy alone. Especially since the motorist who so far did not opt for a BMW M3 due to the restriction to two doors and four seats can now enjoy a genuine alternative: the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan.<br /><br />With their unique style and character in each case, both variants of the BMW M3 achieve the same objective: to offer superior performance and, as a result, a truly unique driving experience based on high-technology derived from motorsport.<br /><br />Through their unique and very different character, both versions of BMW M3 achieve the same goal, using supreme technology derived from motorsport for outstanding performance and a unique driving experience on the road.<br /><br />Indeed, in its ability to arouse utmost enthusiasm, the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan has just as much to offer as the Coupe, ensuring a fascinating driving experience at all times through its objectively measurable performance as well as the driver’s subjective feeling.<br /><br />While the 2008 BMW M3 Sedan is of course first and foremost a BMW M Car, it also comes with additional functional qualities making the car a unique personality. So particularly the sporting and ambitious driver seeking the very best in terms of performance, reliability, design and quality will enjoy the right choice when opting for the BMW M3. And precisely which of the two variants he – or she – ultimately chooses, is of course always a question of personal style.<br /></span></p> </div><!-- google_ad_section_end --><div class="bottomarea">Source: BMW</div>

BMW E90 M3 Sedan

Second body version of the new BMW M3। High-performance sedan from BMW M GmbH with unique design and technology, based on the BMW 3 Series ...

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