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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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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2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport

The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport combines the Corvette's LS3-based powertrain with unique, wide-body styling and a racing-bred suspension for a distinctive model that delivers a great balance of road and race track performance. It is offered in both coupe and convertible body styles, with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The LS3 6.2L engine is rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW) and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm) with the standard exhaust system. An optional two-mode exhaust system elevates the power ratings to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm).

The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport replaces the Corvette's previous Z51 package and brings a greater degree of handling performance, with wider wheels and tires; revised shock, stabilizer bar and spring specifications; and specific gearing. The equipment enables cornering capability of 1.0 g, as well as a 0.2-second improvement in 0-60 acceleration vs. standard LS3-powered models.

Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport coupe models equipped with the manual transmission are uniquely outfitted for race track competition, too, with a dry-sump oiling system, differential cooler and a rear-mounted battery.

The complete list of content and special features for the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport includes:

* Wider front and rear fenders - including specific front fenders with integrated Grand Sport badges
* Z06-style front splitter and tall rear spoiler
* Functional brake ducts and extra cooling
* Unique 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels; painted finish standard and chrome finish optional
* Large 275/35ZR18 tires in front and 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear
* Z06-size brakes, including 14-inch (355 mm) front rotors with six-piston calipers and 13.4-inch (340 mm) rear rotors with four-piston calipers
* Specific manual transmission gear ratios
* Specific rear axle ratio on automatic-equipped models
* With its special equipment, the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport offers a unique blend of performance and amenities. Its suspension package approaches that of the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, but includes a removable roof on coupes (Z06 has a fixed roof) and, of course, the availability of a convertible body style. Also, the paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmission is offered, while a manual transmission is the only choice with the Z06.

All of Corvette's exterior colors are offered on the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport, and an available Heritage package adds iconic front fender hash marks offered in four colors, as well as two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery. The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages, too.

Grand Sport history

Envisioned by legendary Corvette engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov as a factory-built, lightweight and race-ready production model that would trump domestic and foreign road-racing competitors, the original Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport was a promising idea that led to the production of five special prototypes in 1963. The project was later shelved, following GM's agreement to stay out of manufacturer-backed motorsports.

The five prototypes were based on the styling of the 1963 Corvette and were hand-assembled under Duntov's watchful eye. But while they looked like production models, the prototypes were purpose-built race cars that shared little with their assembly-line cousins. Duntov also oversaw the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport engine program that featured a special, 377-cubic-inch small-block V-8 with side-draft carburetors.

Although never officially sanctioned by General Motors, the five Grand Sport prototypes saw extensive racing experience throughout the 1960s in the hands of "private" racers who had strong contacts within Duntov's engineering circle. All five original cars are accounted for today and are among the most valuable in the collector market.

Chevrolet offered a limited-edition  production model in 1996, commemorating the original racing cars and marking the end of the C4 era in Corvette production. All of the 1,000 examples were painted Admiral Blue and featured a white center stripe and red "hash mark" graphics on the left front fender, a graphic scheme that mimicked the look of some of the original race cars.

[Source: NetCarShow]

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2010 Ferrari 599XX

Ferrari 599XX, while based on the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano with the same transaxle layout and engine type, is an extreme track car. Ferrari's engineers have carried out extensive work on the engine's combustion chambers and inlet and exhaust tracts. These modifications, combined with the fact that internal attrition has been reduced and the maximum revs have been boosted to 9,000 rpm, helped achieve the target power output of 700 hp at 9,000 rpm. Particular attention was also paid to cutting the weight of the engine unit components. This was achieved both by optimising forms - as in the new crankshaft - and adopting exclusive materials, as in the carbon-fibre used for the intake plenums. A new gearbox shift strategy cuts overall gearchange times to 60 ms.

The Ferrari 599XX is characterised by an innovative electronic concept called the "High Performance Dynamic Concept" which has been designed to get the maximum performance from the car by managing the combination of the car's mechanical limits with the potential of its electronic controls. The mechanical and electronic systems work together to get the maximum performance from the car under extreme high performance driving, for consistent lap times. The sporty handling has been improved thanks to the adoption of second generation SCM suspension system. Track usage is also made easier thanks to the new "virtual car engineer", a screen in the car that provides a real-time indication of the vehicle's efficiency.

The Ferrari 599XX's aerodynamics were honed in numerous wind tunnel test sessions with the result that the car now boasts 280 kg of downforce at 200 km/h (630 kg at 300 km/h). The front underside of the body is completely faired-in and the vents that channel hot air from the engine bay have been moved to the bonnet.

The "ActiflowT" system increases downforce and/or cuts drag depending on the car's trim cornering conditions, courtesy of the use of a porous material in the diffuser and two fans in the boot which channel the air flow from under the car out through two grilles next to the tail-lights. Winglets have been added to the rear buttresses to increase downforce. while synthetic jets have also been incorporated into the rear of the car to control and smooth the air flow and to reduce drag.

Ferrari's engineers have also used F1-derived "doughnuts" which partly cover the brake discs and wheel rim. These have the dual function of improving both aerodynamics and brake cooling.

In terms of the bodywork, composites and carbon-fibre have been widely used and the engineers drew on their experience in working with aluminium to reach the weight target. The development of increasingly high-performance materials has also benefited the carbon-ceramic material braking system. The brake pads are now made from carbon-fibre which means that the calipers are smaller whilst guaranteeing the same efficiency. The new racing carbon ceramic braking system also delivers shorter braking distances and is generally more efficient due to the weight saving.

The Ferrari 599XX comes with slick tyres (29/67 R19 Front and 31/71 R19 Rear) specifically developed to maximise stability in cornering and increase lateral acceleration. They are fitted to 19 x 11J wheel rims at the front and 19 x 12J at the rear.

[Source: NetCarShow]

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2010 Skoda Octavia RS

The facelifted Skoda Octavia RS has a redesigned front mask with an RS logo and bold headlamps that, for the first time in the RS version, can be fitted with xenon units combined with an adaptive front lighting module. Besides a wider and bolder induction aperture, the car's innovated bumper boasts a further two innovations: fog lamps with the Corner function and LED lamps for daytime lighting. The covers of integrated tailgate lamps have been redesigned to look more attractive, other innovations include, for example, a new metallic paint (Anthracite) and 18" Neptune wheels. The sports-tuned chassis has been lowered to 127 mm, the car's weight reduced by 20 kg in the petrol version and 15 kg in the diesel one. Significantly reduced air resistance has a positive impact upon the car's overall performance. The maximum speed is higher, and the car's responsiveness and acceleration have also been improved.

Complying with the EU 5 standard, the engines fitted to the Skoda Octavia RS include a 2.0 TSI/147 kW petrol unit with a consumption of 7.5 l/100 km and reduced CO2 emissions (175 g /km) and a 2.0 TDI CR/125 kW diesel engine (5.7l/100 km and 150 g/km, respectively). Both engines come exclusively with a six-speed manual twin-clutch DSG transmission.

The Skoda Octavia RS has been bought by over sixty thousand drivers since 2000 (of which 70 % in the estate (Combi) version).

[Source: NetCarShow]

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2010 Skoda Octavia Scout

The Scout line has built a steady position in Škoda's model portfolio. Bigger than the Roomster Scout and the Fabia Scout, the Skoda Octavia Scout is the flagship of this model line. The new vehicle has been facelifted to toe the line with the other models of the Skoda Octavia portfolio, including a redesigned radiator mask and bold headlamps. Fitted with fog lights with the Corner function, the massive front bumper underlines the vehicle's off-road appearance. Bold protective body elements are in harmony with a new metallic paint (Rosso Brunello).

With 179 mm of clear height and efficient chassis protection, the car is well geared for off-road driving. The all-wheel drive system includes the fourth-generation Haldex clutch able to transfer as much as 85 % of the torque to a single wheel. Two powerful engines - petrol 1.8 TSI/118 kW (EU 5) and diesel 2.0 TDI PD DPF/103 kW (EU 4) - combined with a six-speed mechanical transmission provide satisfactory performance levels.

The Skoda Octavia Scout has been bought by over 22 thousand customers so far.

[Source: NetCarShow]

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