2010 Vauxhall Astra

These are the first official images of the new, British-built Vauxhall Astra, which will debut as a five-door hatchback in September 2009 at the Frankfurt Show and will appear in UK showrooms at the end of 2009.

Marking the sixth generation of Vauxhall Astra in 30 years, the new car's design team was led by Mark Adams, the British designer responsible for last year's European Car of the Year-winning Vauxhall Insignia.

With its strong, cab-forward silhouette, steeply-raked windscreen and sloping rear roofline, the new Vauxhall Astra makes ingenious use of many of the design features found in the Insignia, but in a fresh and innovative way. Also like the Insignia, it has spent over 600 hours in the wind tunnel, benefiting performance, economy and overall refinement.

"We're continuing with the same premium design cues as the Insignia, inside and out of the car," said Adams, Vice President of GM Europe Design. "However, the main design themes, like the wing-shaped light signatures and the blade, needed an individual execution to avoid 'cloning' the model ranges. This is why, for instance, you see twin wings in the rear lights and a reversed blade on its flanks."

Underpinning the Vauxhall Astra's rakish, 4.4 metre-length body, is an all-new chassis with a 71 millimetre-longer wheelbase, benefiting both passenger comfort and packaging. Wider tracks front and rear feature, as does a new rear axle design, which not only improves stability and agility, but takes the Vauxhall Astra's ride comfort into a different league.

Enhancing the Astra's dynamic performance still further is the option of Vauxhall's clever FlexRide system, a rarity in this sector which offers drivers three unique damper settings - standard, sport and tour - while being fully adaptive to changes in driving style and cornering speed.

Pictures of the new Vauxhall Astra's interior will be released soon, but in the meantime expect similar strides in quality to those found in the Insignia, combined with big improvements in packaging, seat design and in-cabin storage. Mark Adams' unique wrap-round dash treatment will also appear in the Vauxhall Astra, but with a different take on that found in the Insignia.

Unique in this sector will be the Vauxhall Astra's optional, latest generation AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting), which features bi-xenon lighting that changes its intensity and reach to suit prevailing road conditions. A similar system was introduced on the Insignia, and is now recognised as one of the most advanced systems available.

The highlight of the new Vauxhall Astra's powertrain line-up is the introduction of an all-new, 140PS turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol unit, which builds on Vauxhall's commitment to engine downsizing and reduced emissions/fuel consumption, while retaining the performance of a larger capacity vehicle. The 1.4T joins three further petrol engines, which range from 100PS to 180PS, and four diesel engines ranging from 95PS to 160PS. All engines are Euro 5 compliant.

"The only part of the Vauxhall Astra which isn't new is its name," said Andy Gilson, Vauxhall's Marketing Director. "And that name currently accounts for around 30 per cent of all Vauxhall's car sales, with the five-door hatch taking 60 per cent of those sales alone - so it's important to lead with this body style. Not only is the Astra a crucial new model for Vauxhall, but we're confident that its blend of dynamic design, new-to-class technology and immense driver appeal will attract an even broader spectrum of buyers in this sector."

[Source: NetCarShow]

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2010 Opel Astra

"The Opel Insignia has newly interpreted the mid-size segment. Now, with its dynamic design and innovative technology - much of which has been the preserve of higher-class vehicles before now - the new Opel Astra generation will continue the pioneering role of its large model brother," says Alain Visser, Chief Marketing Officer at GM Europe, describing the future model. "To put it in a nutshell, the next Opel Astra will carry the spirit of the Insignia into the compact class."

The all new fourth Opel Astra generation will make its world debut as a five-door hatchback at the 2009 IAA (September 17-27) in Frankfurt, Germany. "Sculptural artistry meets German precision - that was our design claim with the Insignia and it remains so with the new Opel Astra but with an even more sporty presence," explains Mark Adams, Vice President of Design at GM Europe. "The present Opel Astra already combines a high level of technical substance with emotional styling. You can see that most clearly with the Opel Astra GTC. With the next Opel Astra generation we are taking another big step forward in both respects and emphasizing its sporty credentials."

With its flowing lines, the next Opel Astra will carry on from the Insignia. At the same time, it will pick up on design features that have been found in many models throughout Opel's history- especially in the compact class. The integrated front headlamps of the first Kadett of 1936 are one example. Another is the aerodynamic design of the 1984 Kadett E. Other areas in which the next Opel Astra will evolve the Opel language are its proportions, which give the car its sporty and muscular look. Typical style characteristics of the new, finer design language- elements like the flowing dynamic surfaces, the signature sculpted blade and the warm, wrap-around interior theme with wing-line sweep that links the instrument panel to the door - are found in modified form in the new compact class model. Also characteristic is the high attention to detail and craftsmanship. It could well set new standards in its class.

Hans Demant, Managing Director Adam Opel GmbH, referring to the present Opel Astra, whets people's appetite for the next generation: "Just think of all the innovations Opel has introduced into the previous compact class generations. Moreover, the current Opel Astra is the most innovative compact class model Opel has ever built. It cost us a great deal of effort, but it has placed us among the leaders in the market on a permanent basis. It made the development of the next Opel Astra generation an even bigger challenge, but it was one we were pleased to take up."

With technical innovations like the Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) headlamp system, which has been taken to a higher level and supplemented by new functions, and the "Opel Eye," the new compact class generation will once again assume an outstanding position in this segment.

The all-new chassis will be mated with equally new engines designed following the right-sizing concept that combines high low-end torque with moderate fuel consumption.

Versatility is another traditional strength of Opel vehicles, as demonstrated by the FlexFix integrated rear end carrier in the Corsa and Antara. The new Astra will also pick up on clever and practical ideas like this.

TECHNICAL INNOVATIONS

The Opel philosophy has always been to make top-level innovative technology affordable for a wide range of buyers. Accordingly, the new compact class generation will offer plenty of comfort and safety features that have previously been confined to higher segments. Here are just two of the many examples.

CAMERA SYSTEM

When it made its debut in the Insignia, the driver assistance system "Opel Eye" created considerable buzz as a safety innovation. In the compact class, the camera system will create at least as much of a stir. "Opel Eye" will make driving the Opel Astra safer. A camera integrated between the interior mirror and the windshield assists drivers in two ways. The traffic sign recognition function scans traffic signs that indicate speed limits or overtaking bans and displays them in the instrument panel. In addition, a lane departure warning alerts drivers if they unintentionally leave their chosen lane. Both systems improve traffic safety, reduce stress and help avoid expensive fines.

[Source: NetCarShow]

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2009 Lancia Delta 1.8 Di Turbo Jet

Lancia Delta reflects perfectly the concept of "Anticrisis Luxury" as it fulfils the current requirements of prestige and mobility thanks to the logic of downsizing - i.e. it ensures high quality and performance, reducing cost, size and fuel consumption. Thanks to these winning characteristics, in March this model became the leader of its car range in Italy and is fast growing at European level. In order to improve these results, today Lancia launches a new engine and a new version together with a number of technological changes that make this car the reference product for this car range.

The innovations of the 2009 range

The main innovation is represented by the 200 HP 1.8 Di TurboJet engine, the most powerful one of its range. It is an innovative petrol direct injection engine that confirms Lancia's preference for sports cars and, at the same time, its commitment to protect the environment by limiting emissions and fuel consumption.

These qualities are achieved by enhancing its brilliance, flexibility and the pleasure of driving which have always made this model stand out. This engine is produced by FPT - Fiat Powertrain Technologies - and is provided with a modern 6 speed automatic transmission. It delivers a maximum power of 200 HP (147 kw) at 5,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 320 Nm (32.6 Kgm) at 1,400 rpm. With such equipment, Lancia Delta can reach a maximum speed of 230 km/h and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in only 7.4 seconds. At the same time, the car stands out for low fuel consumption (7.8 litres per 100 km), reduced CO2 emissions (185 g/km) and a Euro 5 homologation.

The second innovation is the exclusive Executive version: a car addressed to clients who look for top luxury and comfort. The "top range" was designed to fulfil the requirements of business clients and members of the diplomatic and institutional worlds - as the attention invested in designing a comfortable passenger compartment shows. Seats are wrap around and comfortable as they are designed to business class standards. The back seats are comfortable for long trips with plenty of room for the legs. Therefore, Lancia Delta Executive offers a real, modern, in tune with the time alternative to bigger, heavier and more expensive cars. The fact this car was chosen to be the Official Car for the 9th World Summit of the Nobel Peace Prize held from 11th to 13th December 2008 in Paris - of which Lancia was the Main Sponsor - is not a coincidence. A Lancia Delta Executive fleet will also drive the international authorities to the G8 summit that will take place from the 8th to the 10th of July.

Lastly, the third innovation of the Lancia Delta 2009 range is represented by the marketing of some innovative devices aimed at making driving a comfortable and pleasant experience. First of all, there are the electronic suspensions with a variable damping system (Reactive Suspension System), capable of reducing car vibrations and ensuring maximum levels of safety, comfort and driveability. Then there is the brand new Sportronic 6 gear automatic transmission with controls on the steering wheels (currently the device is provided with only a 200 HP 1.8 Di TurboJet engine). The last technological innovation of the Lancia Delta is represented by the semi-automatic parking system called "Magic Parking".

All these technological innovations - together with the self-adaptive bi-xenon headlights (Adaptive Xenon Light) and the integrated satellite navigator (Instant Nav) - were made thanks to the cooperation between the Brand and Magneti Marelli. We cannot forget that the cooperation between Fiat Group Automobiles, Magneti Marelli and Microsoft has given birth to Blue&Me™, a system complete with Telecom service functions - which Lancia Delta is the first one to offer - together with hands free, music player and navigation functions.

The strengths of the new engine

The entire world acknowledges the fact that the Italian motoring school has always had the ability to produce gritty and temperamental engines, true "jewels" that are the result of the experience and passion of the engineers matched with their technical competencies acquired over years. The new 200 HP 1.8 Di TurboJet (Euro 5) is no exception.

The new engine is produced by FPT - Fiat Powertrain Technologies - and has a maximum power of 200 HP (147 kw) at 5,000 rpm and a maximum drive torque of 320 Nm (32.6 Kgm) at 1,400 rpm. Thanks to its combination with a 6 gear automatic/sequential transmission, the 200 HP 1.8 Di TurboJet provides an exciting and unmatchable drive: it can reach a maximum speed of 230 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. In spite of these amazing performances, fuel consumption and emissions are surprisingly low: respectively 7.8 l/100km in the combined cycle and 185 g/km of CO2.

Thus, these innovative engines prove Lancia Automobiles' commitment to protecting the environment by containing emissions as well as reducing fuel consumption. All this is achieved by enhancing brilliance, flexibility and the pleasure of driving which have always made this model stand out. In order to achieve these extraordinary results, the 200 HP 1.8 Di TurboJet introduces petrol direct injection, turbocharging and an exhaust and intake double continuous phase transformer. The merging of these different technological solutions offers important advantages to clients such as the direct injection which means low fuel consumption for high engine performance. Furthermore, the turbocharger associated with the double phase transformer enables quick acceleration thanks to a particularly favourable drive torque curve.

Here are the details of all the innovations of the new 200 HP 1.8 Di TurboJet which was designed and developed by engineers of FPT - Fiat Powertrain Technologies, the sector of Fiat Group that provides innovation, design, plan and production activities for engines and gearboxes of all uses: from cars to industrial vehicles, from boats to agricultural machines. With about 20,000 employees, 16 plants and 11 research centres located in 9 different countries, this Sector represents a most significant presence in the field of engines at world level. In FPT, about 3,000 highly specialized engineers work on innovation technologies development and automation. The over 40 patents registered every year show quality and reliability of this group, making FPT - Fiat Powertrain Technologies - a great centre of technological excellence and constant innovation.

The Scavenging Technology

The amazing performances of this engine are a result of the application of the Scavenging technology which maximizes the drive torque at very low rpm by guaranteeing an incredible engine response speed to any driver request.

Scavenging can be obtained by controlling and optimising at every instant engine parameters such as dosage, position of the two phase transformers, ignition advance and injection timing. Basically, it is possible to define the angle and overlapping time of the valves with extreme precision in order to generate direct air flow from the intake to the exhaust manifolds and start the turbocharger in very short times. This means the engine can make better use of the supercharging when compared to standard turbocharged petrol engines. The system is managed by an innovative engine management control unit integrating an extremely modern software which manages all parameters. The result is remarkable: the maximum drive torque at 1,400 rpm increases by 70% compared to traditional turbo engines and response times are halved, getting close to those of aspirated engines.

Double phase transformer

The two continuous phase transformers on the intake and exhaust camshafts enable phase optimisation at any speed and engine load by reducing fuel consumption and emissions as much as possible. Moreover, by combining the two transformers with the turbocharger, it is possible to manage the Scavenging strategy by defining the correct overlapping during the transitory phases. In this way it is possible to respond to a sudden driver request by maximising the engine's response speed at low rpm.

Turbo

This engine is provided with a new generation turbocharger connected to an innovative "Pulse Converter"-type exhaust manifold which optimises the use of exhaust pressure waves to increment the driving torque at low speeds. Both manifold and turbine are made of microcast steel so that they can reach very high working temperatures (up to a maximum of 1020 °C). This is very important for reducing consumption while operating at medium/high speed - i.e. on a motorway.

Thermal Fluid Dynamics

The intake ducts were designed and optimised by using mono and three-dimensional calculation technologies through which it was possible to obtain a correct and high turbulence level. Even the combustion chamber was optimised by using wide squish areas and by minimising area/volume ratios with clear benefits in terms of combustion efficiency. Lastly, the exhaust ducts were designed to work in tune with the exhaust manifold and maximise its pulse converter effect.

"Friction"

The entire engine was made with the aim of minimising friction losses. The pistons are provided with piston rings with a reduced tangent load and are made of advanced materials to minimise wear and tear. Furthermore, the engine cylinder head was designed with two roller rocker arms placed on the valve control which reduce losses by friction of 65% at 2000 rpm compared to direct command. This is a typical solution adopted for Brand Premium engines.

The mechanic optimisation with very long rods combined with a moderately short travel has resulted in a drop of vibrations which are typical of four cylinder engines operating at very high speeds. As it wasn't necessary to utilize balancing countershafts, the weight was further optimised and consequently, the fuel consumption was reduced.

Performances

The Scavenging strategy combined with the innovative control system has allowed this engine to reach new benchmarks in terms of performance. The specific drive torque (185 Nm/l) is extremely high, one of the highest among the engines available nowadays. Furthermore, we can confidently say that the maximum drive torque value (320 Nm) achieved at 1400 rpm represents a point of absolute excellence. This value ensures excellent performances in terms of acceleration and allows a greater car response without having to change gear frequently. Lastly, the high specific power of 115 HP/l can be reached at a relatively low speed of 5,000 rpm and remains constant up to 5,500 rpm.

In brief, the 200 HP 1.8 Di Turbo Jet E5 drive torque is comparable to the one of an aspirated V6 engine which is almost twice its displacement. However, thanks to the downsizing philosophy, it was possible to reduce the weight with great efficiency benefits.

[Source: NetCarShow]

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2010 BMW Z4 UK Version

BMW has a long and illustrious history of building two seat sports cars. From the very first 3/15 PA Wartburg Roadster in 1930, BMW has produced highly distinctive roadsters. With their long bonnet, setback glasshouse, front engine rear-wheel-drive configuration and with the two seats positioned close to the rear axle, every BMW roadster lives up to the ultimate driving machine promise.

Now, nearly 80 years after the first BMW roadster went on sale, the latest has been launched in the UK. Featuring a host of innovations never before featured on a BMW of this type, the new BMW Z4 is the first to come with a two-piece, electro-hydraulically operated Retractable Hard-Top roof that can be raised or lowered in 20 seconds. The new BMW Z4 is also the first roadster to be offered with Adaptive M Sport Suspension. This system features a ride height 10mm lower than the standard car for a more dynamic drive. Adaptive M Sport Suspension also comes with electronically controlled dampers that offer three different configurations from Normal to Sport+ so a driver can fine tune the car's set-up.

The standard Drive Dynamic Control function is another BMW roadster first and allows the driver to alter the chassis configuration to suit their needs. Now the vehicle has the capability to morph between comfortable yet sporty cruiser through to outright performance car. Depending on model specification, the throttle and steering response, level of ride comfort, Dynamic Stability Control response and, on automatic or Double Clutch Transmission cars, gear change times can all be altered.

Drivetrain

To underscore the potency of the new BMW Z4 the model comes with a choice of three high output six-cylinder powerplants. The range flagship is an International Engine of the Year winner in the shape of the 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine. The 306hp BMW Z4 sDrive35i powers its way from zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. The strong performance credentials are matched in terms of economy and emissions.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35i records a combined consumption figure of 30.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 219g/km. It is worth nothing that the sDrive35i can be specified with a Double Clutch Transmission and a vehicle so equipped records a faster zero to 62mph time of 5.1 seconds, 31.4mpg consumption and lower CO2 emissions at 210g/km.

Joining this model in the launch line-up are the BMW Z4 sDrive23i and the Z4 sDrive30i. Both use the same magnesium aluminium alloy engine with Double VANOS and VALVETRONIC technology, but with varying capacities. The 2.5-litre entry-level BMW Z4 sDrive23i produces 204hp to achieve its zero to 62mph time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 151mph. In contrast the BMW Z4 sDrive23i is capable of a combined 33.2mpg and CO2 emissions of 199g/km.

The BMW Z4 sDrive30i comes with a 3.0-litre powerplant producing 258hp. The six-cylinder engine records a zero to 62mph time of 5.8 seconds before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Like the BMW Z4 sDrive23i, the Z4 sDrive30i posts impressive combined consumption and CO2 emission figures, recording 33.2mpg and 199g/km.

Transmitting the power to the road in all three Z4s is a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. Customers of the BMW Z4 sDrive23i and the Z4 sDrive30i who prefer the characteristics of an automatic can specify a six-speed Sport Automatic transmission featuring gear change paddles on the steering wheel. Buyers of the BMW Z4 sDrive35i can choose a seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission, again with gear shift paddles located on the steering wheel.

Technical Specifications

* BMW Z4 sDrive23i
o Price OTR: £28,645
o Power: 204 hp
o Torque: 250 Nm
o 0-62mph: 6.6 s
o Top speed: 151 mph
o Combined: 33.2 mpg
o Emissions: 199 g/km
* BMW Z4 sDrive30i
o Price OTR: £32,660
o Power: 258 hp
o Torque: 310 Nm
o 0-62mph: 5.8 s
o Top speed: 155 mph
o Combined: 33.2 mpg
o Emissions: 199 g/km
* BMW Z4 sDrive35i
o Price OTR: £37,060
o Power: 306 hp
o Torque: 400 Nm
o 0-62mph: 5.2 s
o Top speed: 155 mph
o Combined: 30.1 mpg
o Emissions: 219 g/km

[Source: NetCarShow]

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2010 Seat Ibiza Bocanegra

The new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is a unique, exclusive vehicle that features an uncanny exterior design and a personalised interior, which has undergone major modifications compared to the rest of the range models.

The main characteristic feature of the new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is found on the front of the car. As its name suggests, the imposing black volume at the front is reminiscent of a mask, which strengthens the stylishness of SEAT's new model.

The top half of the front on the SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is emphasised by completely black double headlights and the central grille with its honeycomb mesh and black surround, including its innovative air vents at the base. The bumper combines black with the body colour with a broad grille beneath that takes care of cooling the engine.

Other outstanding exterior elements are the door mirrors with their black housing, the sunroof and the attractive 17 inch "Sira" rims and low profile 215/40 R17 tyres. But what really identifies the personality of the Spanish brand's new car is the "Bocanegra" badge centred on the hatch door, a characteristic trait of SEAT's most exclusive versions.

On the inside, the first thing that gets your attention on the SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra are the seats, which are upholstered with specific fabric made up of rhomboids stitched together in red that lend a definitively sporty look. In addition, the upper part of the seats sports the logo that identifies this version - a capital "B" also stitched in red.

Another eye-catching element in the interior is the three-spoke steering wheel, which features a capital "B" for Bocanegra in aluminium in the middle of the vertical spoke, as well as the seven-speed DSG shift paddles. Different shades of black prevail in the interior, especially the Brillante Black and Carbón Black of several trim elements.

[Source: NetCarShow]

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2010 Dacia Sandero Stepway

Dacia Sandero Stepway's trailblazing looks are a sure sign that it was born for adventure. Its raised ground clearance (up 20mm compared with the Dacia Sandero hatchback), black and body-coloured bumpers - which house the satin-finish chrome front and rear skid-plates -, foglamps and longitudinal roofbars (black and satin-finish chrome) ensure that Dacia Sandero Stepway is in its element whatever the type of road.

Dacia Sandero Stepway combines sporty appeal and refinement thanks to details such as its black headlamp masks, chrome grille trim, 16-inch aluminium alloy wheels (depending on market), satin-finish chrome exterior mirrors, door handles and sills, and chrome exhaust tailpipe which all contribute to the model's assertive personality. Inside, the specific black upholstery with visible white stitching combines with the Stone Grey centreconsole fascia, air vents, steeringwheel rim and door grab handles to add a touch of elegance to Dacia Sandero Stepway's adventurous appearance.

This forceful vehicle features Stepway branding on the front doors and front chrome door sills, while decorative graphics for the sides of the rear wings are also available as accessories.

AN ATTRACTIVE LINE-UP

In addition to its unmistakable individual character, Dacia Sandero Stepway boasts the same strengths that have helped forge the success of its elder, the compact Sandero hatchback, namely a roomy interior, safety, reliability and an unbeatable performance and equipment package for its price.

Dacia Sandero Stepway is a particularly spacious vehicle which can seat up to five tall adults thanks to its generous dimensions. It also delivers record carrying capacity thanks to its 320dm3 VDA boot which extends to 1,200dm3 VDA with the rear seats folded.

Dacia Sandero Stepway's safety equipment includes Bosch 8.1 ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA), plus driver and front passenger airbags.

Built on the B0 platform, Dacia Sandero Stepway's boasts robustness and quality, and also benefits from extensive anti-corrosion treatment (underbody, sill and wheel arch gravel protection, wax-injected hollow sections, etc.).

Dacia Sandero Stepway is based on the Ambiance version (central locking, power steering, etc.) and, in addition to its specific styling details, features a long list of comfort-related equipment, including a 60/40-split folding rear benchseat and foglamps for enhanced visibility at night-time and in fog. A choice of three metallic finishes is available as standard: Mercury Grey, Comète Grey and Ruby Red.

Drivers will particularly appreciate the slightly raised driving position, while the pleasure felt at the wheel of Dacia Sandero Stepway is further enhanced by the performance of the 1.6 MPI 90hp petrol and dCi 70hp diesel engines (depending on market), two powerplants which have already shown their worth under the bonnet of other Dacia models. Thrifty combined cycle fuel consumption of 7.6 and 5.3 litres/100km respectively only adds to the appeal of the 1.6 MPI and dCi 70 versions of Dacia Sandero Stepway. Last but not least, Dacia Sandero Stepway dCi 70 emits just 140g of CO2/km, making it eligible the Dacia eco² signature.

In keeping with the Dacia brand's philosophy, Sandero Stepway boasts an unbeatable performance and equipment package for its price and is due to go on sale from September 2009 in the majority of its European markets.

[Source: NetCarShow]

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