Monday, November 24, 2008

The New Pontiac G6 Convertible












Pontiac has announced that it is ringing in the new year with a fresh look for its best-selling line of G6 mid-size vehicles. Additional fuel-saving powertrain options, more aggressive exterior styling, and a sleek new instrument panel highlight the 2009.5 model Pontiac G6, which will begin arriving in the dealerships in January 2009.

"The Pontiac G6 has always been one of our most important vehicles and has been Pontiac's number-one seller since it was launched in 2004," said Susan Docherty, vice president of Buick-Pontiac-GMC. "As the most complete family of mid-size vehicles available in the marketplace, the new enhancements for 2009 will further solidify the G6's reputation for sporty style and handling without sacrificing value and fuel efficiency."

All Pontiac G6 models, including sedans, coupes and convertibles, receive the interior upgrades. The uniquely styled Pontiac G6 GXP models will not be affected by the exterior or powertrain changes.

New Powertrain Options

For the first time, the Pontiac G6 coupe will be available with GM's fuel sipping, 164-horsepower 2.4L four-cylinder Ecotec engine. Linked to a six-speed automatic transmission, the coupe's new powertrain combo is capable of the same 33 miles per gallon fuel efficiency as the current Pontiac G6 sedan and also incorporates a new TAPshift manual shift system with steering wheel-mounted paddle controls.

In those areas where E85 ethanol-based fuel is readily available, a FlexFuel version of the 219-horsepower 3.5L V6 will be available as a no-cost alternative to the standard 3.5L engine on all body styles.

The optional 222-horsepower 3.9L V6 for the Pontiac G6 convertible remains unchanged, as does the standard 252-horsepower 3.6L V6 in all GXP models.

Sportier Exterior

Inspired by the sporty front end styling of the new Pontiac G8 performance sedan, the new G6 front fascia features chrome surrounds for the signature Pontiac dual port honeycomb grille. This same grille pattern is carried to an updated lower air dam.

Also new are a revised headlight design with clear park/turn lenses and amber lamps, body color mirrors and painted rockers on the sedan and coupe. An updated spoiler is available for base model sedans and is standard on the GT models.

New rear fascias unique to the sedan and coupe/convertible accommodate both single and dual exhaust, as well as larger diameter exhaust tips.

17-inch chrome wheel covers are now standard equipped on all four-cylinder, six-speed automatic sedans and coupes. An updated 17-inch wheel will be standard as a part of the popular Sun-and-Sound package.

Refreshed Interior

A revised center stack is the most obvious interior enhancement of the 2009.5 model Pontiac G6, sporting all new HVAC controls and an updated AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with auxiliary audio input jack. The driver information center has moved to the gauge cluster, which has also been enhanced with new graphics and lighting.

The 2009.5 Pontiac G6 will also benefit from the integrated info-tainment opportunities in GM's optional MY LINK enhanced communication package. MY LINK integrates audio system, Bluetooth telephone, XM satellite radio and OnStar navigation functions in one simple package. It includes an upgraded USB-equipped radio system, allowing for direct control of various portable music players, plus provides a full year of both XM radio and OnStar Directions and Connections services.

Other interior changes include new dark satin nickel trim accents on the steering wheel, door panels, and shifter plate. New two-tone seats in an ebony-light taupe color combination are available in either cloth or leather for all models, offering an option to the standard ebony seats. A new optional ebony-titanium color leather seating package is also available on all GT and GXP models.

Pricing

Pricing for the new Pontiac G6 coupe with the four-cylinder, six-speed automatic powertrain combo starts at $22,890, including $670 destination and freight charges (DFC). A comparably equipped Pontiac G6 sedan starts at $23,875.

The E85-capable FlexFuel 3.5L equipped Pontiac G6 sedan starts at $24,125, with the GT coupe starting at $25,280. The 2009.5 Pontiac G6 retractable hardtop convertible starts at $32,970.

A special value-priced Pontiac G6 base sedan with a standard equipment package will start at $19,945.

All Pontiac G6 models are covered by GM's five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and three-year, 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.


The New Ford Fiesta Sedan












Ford staged the global reveal of its all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan four-door at the 2008 Guangzhou Auto Show, delivering in full on the bold promise made by the Ford Verve Concept notchback last year.

The dynamic all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan features Ford's signature kinetic design elements - introduced to China first on the exciting Ford Fiesta five-door hatchback at Auto China in Beijing in April - demonstrating the versatility of this unique design language and its consumer appeal in important global markets.

"We set out to design a truly exciting, desirable small car that exceeds all expectations. Today, we are keeping our promise that was made with the Verve Concept notchback last year," said Chelsia Lau, chief designer of China/ASEAN Programs, Ford Motor Company. "The all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan is sleek and contemporary. The interpretation of kinetic design on the four-door body has given the Fiesta sedan an independent identity while retaining the emotional appeal of its five-door sibling. "

The Ford Fiesta Sedan will be launched in China within months of its global reveal. It will be built at Ford's new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Nanjing.

"This Fiesta writes the next chapter in our small car success story and builds on the widespread appeal of the Ford brand in China. Style-aware Chinese consumers will appreciate the uniqueness of this car that expresses their individuality, style and aspirations," said Robert Graziano, president and CEO, Ford Motor China.

The Ford Fiesta Sedan will be manufactured in China using the same advanced technologies as does its European counterpart. The body structure is manufactured with extensive use of high- and ultra high-strength steels to significantly increase strength and rigidity, while also reducing weight and improving fuel efficiency. These advanced steels also provide Fiesta with an increased measure of occupant protection.

The Ford Fiesta Sedan has been tailored to satisfy customer wants in China. Carrying out Fiesta's global strategy, additional variations of the all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan will be available across Asia and North America from 2010 with production from Thailand and Mexico supplying these important markets. However, Ford Fiesta Sedan will not be distributed in Europe.

"Launching the all-new Ford Fiesta Sedan to the world in China signals the importance of China and the Asian region in Ford's global strategy, " said John Parker, executive vice president, Asia Pacific and Africa, Ford Motor Company. "This is a sophisticated small car. Design combines with advanced technology to deliver very high levels of refinement, safety and class-leading fuel efficiency. This new Fiesta proves Ford's leadership in small car design and development. "

Sunday, November 23, 2008

The New Brabus Tesla Roadster












The first tuned electric car comes with Brabus Tesla Roadster: The first project of the future cooperation between Tesla Motors, Inc. and the new Brabus business division Zero Emission celebrates its world debut at the 2008 Essen Motor Show. Brabus presents an exclusive customization program for the Tesla Roadster, the world's first electrically powered production sports car.

The new Brabus logo with added lightning bolt is the trademark of Brabus Zero Emission vehicles.

To give the sports car a more exciting sound the Brabus electronics specialists have developed a 'space sound generator.' The occupants on-board the Brabus Tesla Roadsters can choose from several simulated engine sounds including that of a typical V8 combustion engine, a racecar engine and two futuristic soundscapes named 'Beam' and 'Warp.' The volume of the sound is dependent on the momentary power output of the electric motor.

A custom-tailored Brabus tire/wheel combination further improves handling characteristics. The two-seater is refined with weight-optimized Brabus Monoblock S light-alloy wheels in size 7Jx18 in front and in size 8.5Jx19 in back. Brabus technology partner Pirelli provides the corresponding P Zero Nero high-performance tires in size 215/35 ZR 18 in front and in size 255/30 ZR 19 on the rear axle. These tires were developed to deliver minimum rolling resistance.

The two-seater also receives an even more striking exterior at Brabus. The customization measures include a special high-quality 'matte white' paintjob. To give the mid-engine sports car an even more enticing face the Brabus designers treat the front apron to a lightweight carbon-fiber front lip and daytime running lights integrated into the front grille. Matte-white surrounds for the headlamps add interesting detail to the overall effect.

The sides of the Tesla are upgraded with Brabus entrance lights shaped like futuristic space lights. They are activated with the keyless fob or by pulling on a door handle. Brabus carbon-fiber air inlets add even more sporty flair. Immediately apparent in the rear are the Brabus rear wing and the Brabus rear diffuser, both made from light yet extremely strong carbon fiber. The round taillights are accentuated further by matte-white applications.

The Brabus customization program for the Tesla Roadster also includes exclusive interior options. The range of products starts with scuff plates with illuminated Brabus logo. They are integrated into the top of the rocker panels.

The company-own Brabus upholstery shop masterfully handcrafts exquisite custom interiors for the Tesla. The designers chose a combination of especially soft yet durable Brabus perforated lightweight leather and Alcantara. The cockpit features white seams to reflect the exterior color. The vehicle floor is also upholstered with lightweight leather for added exclusivity.

The goal of the Brabus customization concept for the Tesla Roadster is to define a potential limited edition as well as an individual tuning program for the Tesla driver.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

The New Aston Martin One-77












Aston Martin has released first pictures of the stunning new Aston Martin One-77, initially announced in August 2008.

Announced through a 'teaser' advertisement to emphasise its unique nature, Aston Martin One-77 is the ultimate expression of what Aston Martin stands for and will combine modern technology and design with craftsmanship and ultimate exclusivity to create the world's most desirable automotive art form.

Powered by a new Aston Martin 7.3 litre V12 engine, the Project One-77 will deliver breathtaking levels of power and performance expected to top 700bhp and a maximum speed in excess of 200mph. The dramatically styled two-door, two-seat sports coupe will be based on a new carbon fibre monocoque body structure and adopt active aerodynamic technology.

As the initial working title name suggests, production will be limited up to a maximum of 77 individually numbered examples, with deliveries expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2009.

The New PGO Hemera












Comfortable, luminous and dynamic, the PGO Hemera is a mix of a "coupé" and a shooting break. Elegant, refined, with its dazzling design and distinct urban style, the PGO Hemera perpetuates the grace and beauty of the previous models, the Speedster II and the Cevennes. Based on the same technical specifications, the PGO Hemera features a spacious open interior, accentuated by its unique glass bubble, creating a new driving experience.

Equipment

  • Leather interior trim: seats, inside of doors, dash-board and control lever
  • Air conditioning
  • Radio CD /MP3, 2 loudspeakers
  • Analogical instrumentation, retro enlightened, 8 meters (speedometer, RPM indicator, fuel gauge, water temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, oil temperature gauge, voltmeter, clock)
  • Electrically operated side windows
  • Heated windscreen
  • Remote control central locking
  • Electrically operated outside mirrors
  • Leather trimmed steering wheel
  • Height adjustable steering column
  • Aluminium trimmed gear knob and pedals
  • Aluminium thresholds doors
  • Matched front carpets
  • 3 points embarked seat belts
  • Rolling code transponder immobiliser
  • Varnished Paint
  • 17" Alloy wheels
  • Dual chrome exhaust outlet
  • Options

  • Automatic gear box
  • Leather interior trim in the expanded range of color (10)
  • Leather trim sewn with thread color differentiated
  • Two-tone leather interior trim
  • Interior trim fully sheathed
  • Metallic varnished Paint - Specific colour for the Roof (black, White, silver grey)
  • Specific paint (except colour chart)
  • 17" alloy wheels "classic"
  • 17" alloy wheels "sport"
  • 17" alloy wheels "trend"
  • Parking aid
  • Alarm

Technical specifications

Engine
  • Engine position: transverse mid engine
    • Number of cylinders / disposition : 4 aligned
    • Cubic capacity (bore x stroke): 1997 cm3 (85 x 88 mm)
    • Number of valves: 16 (twin overhead camshaft)
    • Maximum power: 103 kW (140 ch DIN) to 6000 rpm
    • Maximum torque: 19,5 daNm (20 mkg) to 3000 rpm
    • Compression level: 10.8:1
    • Depollution system: catalytic converter, 2 lambda sensors, charcoal active filter
  • Transmission
    • Gear box: manual, 5 speed + reverse (automatic gear box 4 speed in option)
  • Frame/steering
    • Frame: multi-tubular and crash test structure
    • Body: composite moulded bodyshell
    • Suspension: independent, Mc Pherson system with lower triangulated arm, transversal sway bar
    • Brakes: 4 ventilated discs
    • Wheels: 7x17 alloy wheels
    • Tyres size: 205/40 ZR 17
    • Steering: rack-and-pinion
    • Turning circle between kerbs: 9,40M
  • Weight, and dimensions
    • Kerb weight: 980 Kg
    • Fuel tank capacity: 42 litres
    • Trunk capacity: 240 dm3
    • Length: 3753 mm
    • Width: 1675 (1827) mm
    • Height: 1300 mm
    • Wheelbase: 2261 mm
    • Front / rear track: 1440 mm / 1430 mm
  • Performance and consumption
    • Maximum speed on track: ca 200 Km/h
    • Acceleration 0-100 Km/h less than 7s
    • Fuel consumption (urban/extra urban/combined drive cycle)
      • manual gear box: 11/6,5/8,2 liter per 100 km
      • automatic gear box: 11,5/6,6/8,4 liter per 100 km
    • CO2 emission
      • manual gear box 185g/km
      • automatic gear box: 199g/km