30-year-old charged for threatening Detroit auto-execs!

Things have been heating up with recent debates and talks about auto manufacturers in Detroit lately. Therefore, I guess you could say that we weren’t completely surprised with Patrick William Hufford Jr that was arraigned today on charges after he called into a local newspaper and threatened to kill the chief executives of the U.S. automakers if the situation between the auto industry and unions did not improve by April 1.

Ok buddy, we understand your anger, but was it really worth the possible misdemeanor charges, 6 months in prison and a $1,000 bail? We think not! Whatever happened to good old fashioned pot banging and picketing in front of the Capitol Building and White House? And even though we agree with what one comment stated on the Detroit Free Press website that, “This guys got b**** as big as his man boobs”, he looks pretty harmless to us. Via: Freep

Posted by Dani

Technorati: auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images
http://carscoopcar.blogspot.com/2007/03/30-year-old-charged-for-threatening.html?m=0

2008 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet (997) caught with its camouflage down

Our second post on Porsche today reveals the upcoming 997 Turbo Cabriolet caught red-handed without a trace of camouflage. Like its Coupe counterpart, the rich-boy-toy rag-top will be equipped with Porsche’s twin turbocharged 3.6-liter, 6cylinder boxer that boasts an output of 480Hp. Expect the 997 Turbo Cabriolet to make its public debut at the Frankfurt Show in September which means we’ll probably have the first official pics in mid-summer. Via:Autoblog.nl , Source:RS6


Technorati: Porsche+911+Turbo+Cabriolet, 997, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

http://carscoopcar.blogspot.com/2007/03/2008-porsche-911-turbo-cabriolet-997.html?m=0

Update: Infiniti EX Concept officially unveiled

Infiniti just came out with the official press release of its New York Show EX concept. Measuring at 185.2 inches/4630 mm in length, the EX is practically a pre-production model and according to Infiniti, it will go on sale in North America in late 2007. Infiniti’s BMW X3 rival will also find its way to the European market in 2008 where along with the 3.5 V6 petrol there’s the possibility of a diesel option, too. Finally it's worth mentioning that the EX is highlighted by two systems that are said to be a world first:

-the around View Monitor utilises small front, side and rear-mounted cameras to project an all-around view of potential objects on every side of the vehicle – helping reduce blind spots when parking.

-the next-gen Lane Departure Prevention system uses the vehicle’s Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to help assist the driver in maintaining lane position if the vehicle inadvertently starts to move outside of the lane. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the press release & more high-res pics


PRESS RELEASE

INFINITI EX CONCEPT FEATURES COUPE-INSPIRED SUV DESIGN, WORLD DEBUT OF TWO ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES

Stylish Design Concept Previews New Infiniti Production Crossover SUV

The Infiniti EX Concept, which makes its world debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, follows in the tradition of previous Infiniti design studies with its combination of seductive design, elegant interior and advanced technology systems – including an advanced Around View Monitor (AVM) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system. And, like many of the Infiniti concepts that have come before, the new EX Concept is a very real preview of an upcoming production vehicle – the 2008 Infiniti EX crossover SUV.

“The Infiniti FX, M and most recently the new 2008 G Coupe, can all trace their evolution from show stoppers to Infiniti showrooms in a short period of time,” said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, Infiniti Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “With this stunning EX Concept, we’re pleased to announce that along with the basic exterior and interior designs, the production Infiniti EX will include much of the EX Concept’s innovative technology, including the Around View Monitor and Lane Departure Prevention.”



Coupe-Inspired Exterior

The EX Concept’s sculpted elegance expresses a timeless appeal – sleek lines that portray speed, grace and finesse. Its layout combines the look and feel of a luxury coupe – including short front and rear overhangs – and the ample interior roominess, optimised seating height and luggage space of an SUV.

“The EX Concept is the perfect fusion of a luxury coupe and a high-utility SUV,” said Igo. “Its ‘right-sized’ packaging gives it excellent around town manoeuvrability, while the wide rear hatch and low load floor make it a versatile performer for everyday and weekend use.”

The EX Concept exterior includes many signature Infiniti touches, including the double-arch grille, large L-shaped headlights with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), integrated fog lights, distinctive LED taillights and “dynamic arch” profile. The exterior also features a high-mounted rear hatchback spoiler.

Special features created especially for the EX Concept are the all-in-one sash-style side door mirrors with integrated LED turn signals and electric outside door handles with push switches. The EX Concept also includes paint and 19-inch 7-spoke aluminium alloy wheels mounted with 245/55R19 tyres.

The most striking exterior design element of the EX Concept is its dramatic liquid crystal full-length glass roof panel that is able to change from transparent to translucent via input from a special touch sensor system.

“The EX Concept’s glass roof technology is a fascinating study in how technology can be utilised to change the entire interior atmosphere of a vehicle by adding or subtracting not just light, but the occupants’ view of the outside world,” said Igo.

Elegant Interior Design

Like all Infiniti vehicles, the EX Concept is conceived to offer a reinvigorating and engaging interior environment, one that is both indulgent and inspiring. The “wave-inspired” cabin layout is focused on the driver, with easy-to-read high-contrast gauges with violet-colour illumination and an electric soft-touch shifter system.

The EX Concept’s rich, leather-appointed and aluminum-alloy trimmed interior also offers plenty of passenger luxury – with deep, supportive seats and an ambient lighting system that includes special indirect headrest illumination.

A large, leather-appointed centre console box provides utility for driver and front passenger, while the instrument panel includes a wide LCD monitor and signature Infiniti analogue clock. The advanced audio system includes aluminium speaker finishers, matching the door-side trim. The roomy rear cargo area combines function with design with its aluminum-alloy flooring with luggage rails.

“The EX Concept’s interior is all about driving pleasure and passenger comfort,” said Igo. “Like the exterior, it offers a coupe-like feel but surprising utility – ideal for today’s active lifestyles.”

Advanced Platform and Powertrain

Under the EX Concept’s dramatic body is an equally advanced platform and powertrain based on the latest Infiniti production hardware. Its advanced FM platform provides the same high levels of handling precision and balance as it does for the Infiniti M, FX and G Coupe and Sedan. For use in the EX Concept, the wheelbase has been shortened to 112.0 inches for a small turning radius, while the rear multi-link suspension utilises a low shock absorber layout to enhance cargo area utility. It rides on 19-inch 7-spoke aluminium-alloy wheels with 245/55R19 tyres.

The EX Concept is powered by a V6 engine, coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The EX Concept also includes an all-wheel drive system.

The World Debut of Two New Technologies

The EX Concept’s advanced technology design is highlighted by two systems that are expected to be the first production versions in the world when the new Infiniti EX goes on sale in North America in late 2007.

The Infiniti Around View Monitor utilises small front, side and rear-mounted cameras to project an all-around view of potential objects on every side of the vehicle – helping reduce blind spots when parking.

“Conventional mirrors, no matter how carefully you use them, just can’t provide a view around the vehicle that the Around View Monitor’s four-camera system does,” said Igo. “Rear bumper sonar systems help detect objects behind a vehicle, but again they can’t give the view of the space around the vehicle that the AVM does.”

The Lane Departure Prevention system builds on the Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system that is currently available on the Infiniti FX and M. Rather than just use an audible/visual warning system to alert the driver of unintentional vehicle movement outside the designated lane, the LDP system uses the vehicle’s Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to help assist the driver in maintaining lane position if the vehicle inadvertently starts to drift outside of the lane.

Both Lane Departure Prevention and the LDW systems use a small camera installed behind the windscreen to detect lane markers in front of the vehicle and calculate its position relative to lane markers and warn the driver of lane drift (pending lane change without use of the turn signal) with a visual display and audible buzzer.

If the driver does not return the vehicle in the direction of the centre of the travel lane, the LDP system assists the driver by using gentle control (generating part of the necessary yaw movement), using the VDC’s brake actuator to control the brake pressure of each individual wheel to generate the intended movement..

“Infiniti has taken a leadership position in offering the first production Lane Departure Warning systems for production vehicles. We’re now poised to take the next big step with the upcoming EX’s Lane Departure Prevention system,” said Igo. “We’re confident that the production Infiniti EX will be just as stylish, dramatic, luxurious and innovative as this EX Concept show vehicle. The line continues to be drawn.”

The Infiniti EX Concept was created at the Nissan Technical Center in Atsugi, Japan.

About Infiniti

Infiniti offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles, including the G sports coupe and sedan, the M luxury performance sedan, FX premium crossover SUV, and the QX full-size luxury SUV. More information about Infiniti and its total ownership experience can be found at www.Infiniti.com.

INFINITI EX CONCEPT

KEY DIMENSIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

Engine/Transmission V6 engine/5-speed automatic transmission

Platform FM (Front Mid-ship) platform

Drive Configuration Front engine/all-wheel drive

Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)

Suspension Subframe-mounted independent front double-wishbone suspension with aluminium-alloy upper and lower links, high-performance dual-flow pass shock absorbers, stabiliser bar

Independent multi-link rear suspension with aluminium-alloy upper and lower links and axle housing, high-performance dual-flow pass shock absorbers, stabiliser bar

Steering Vehicle speed-sensitive power-assisted steering system

Brakes Power-assisted front and rear vented discs with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)

Wheels/Tyres 19-inch 7-spoke aluminium-alloy wheels with 245/55R19 tyres

Wheelbase 112.0 inches/2800 mm

Length 185.2 inches/4630 mm

Width 72.0 inches/1800 mm

Height 63.2 inches/1575 mm

Seating Capacity 5 passengers

Select Technology

Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system, using a small camera mounted behind the windscreen and an advanced microprocessing unit, utilises the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to help assist the driver in maintaining lane position if the vehicle inadvertently starts to drift out of the lane; Around View Monitor (AVM) system with front, side and rear-mounted cameras to help reduce the blind spots when parking; BluetoothÒ hands-free phone system

Select Exterior Features

Unique liquid crystal glass roof panel that can change from transparent to translucent; Infiniti signature double-arch grille and dynamic arch profile; Infiniti signature L-shaped headlights with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), integrated fog lights; thin, elegant LED taillights; all-in-one sash-style side door mirrors with integrated LED turn signals; electric outside door handles with push switches; high-mounted rear hatchback spoiler.

Select Interior Features

Driver-oriented, leather-appointed interior with luxurious passenger space; liquid crystal glass sunroof with touch sensor system control; Infiniti signature “double-wave” instrument panel and Infiniti-signature analogue clock; high contrast instrumentation with aluminium-alloy bezel surround; electric soft-touch shifter system, designed for an artistic, jewel-like appearance; aluminium-alloy door-side finishers and speaker finish; oversize front and rear seat headrests with indirect lighting; special ambient mood lighting throughout the cabin; large-sized high-touch leather-appointed centre console; aluminium-alloy rear cargo area finisher with integrated luggage rails.

Technorati: Infiniti+EX+Concept, New+York+international+Auto+Show, NYIAS, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, pictures, images

http://carscoopcar.blogspot.com/2007/03/update-infiniti-ex-concept-officially.html?m=0

Scoop Video: 2009 Porsche Panamera



Porsche’s forthcoming Panamera sedan has been caught on tape this time performing test-runs somewhere in Europe. They say TV makes you look fatter, but we don’t think TV is to blame for Stuttgart’s 5door sedan chubby looks… Check out our previous report on the Panamera here. Via: Youtube

Technorati: Porsche+Panamera, Video, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, Carscoop, blogs, 2007

http://carscoopcar.blogspot.com/2007/03/scoop-video-2009-porsche-panamera.html?m=0

Mercedes CL65 AMG: 612Hp V12 biturbo coupe to debut in New York

Mercedes AMG has released details on its top-buck CL65 AMG coupe prior to its Big Apple debut in a few days. The uber-alles CL features a 6,0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 that delivers 612Hp and a whopping 1.000Nm of torque, capable of slinging the AMG from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in just 4,4 sec while the 200-km/h (124mph) mark comes after 13.3 sec. As in all Mercedes’, Its maximum speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155mph).

Since the presentation of the CL65 AMG coincides with AMG’s 40th birthday, Mercedes decided to run a special limited edition of just 40 cars dubbed "40th Anniversary". The latter feature among others, a new type of paint finish called “Alubeam” that looks like liquid metal, or at least that’s what Mercedes says. Via: Jalopnik & Mercedes -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the official press release & a high-res image gallery




PRESS RELEASE: CL65 AMG: THE NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE COUPE

Also Available as "40th Anniversary" Limited Edition Model

Two special events make 2007 a particularly significant year for Mercedes-AMG: the arrival of a new top model - the CL65 AMG high-performance coupe with its 450 kW /612 hp V12 engine - which rounds off the unique AMG range and which also, in "40th Anniversary" limited edition guise, marks a special anniversary: the high-performance brand of the Mercedes Car Group (MCG) celebrates its 40th birthday in 2007.

Another dream car has joined the AMG model range in the form of the new CL65 AMG. The powerful AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine familiar from the S65 AMG and SL65 AMG twelve-cylinder models delivers a truly impressive driving experience in the exclusive high-performance coupe. Its maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp and maximum torque of 1000 Newton meters are reflected in its outstanding performance data: the CL65 AMG attains 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and reaches the 200-km/h mark in 13.3 seconds. Its maximum speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Standard features include AMG body styling, 20-inch AMG forged wheels, the unique AMG interior and highly advanced technology, such as AMG sports suspension, based on the Active Body Control system, and the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®. The AMG high-performance brake system with new double-frame sliding calipers offers maximum deceleration without fading: under emergency braking from 100 km/h at the permissible gross vehicle weight, the CL65 AMG comes to a standstill in 35.6 meters; this represents a maximum deceleration of 11.1 m/s2.

"40th Anniversary" Edition with AMG Alubeam Paint Finish

In order to mark the 40th anniversary of Mercedes-AMG - the high-performance brand of the Mercedes Car Group - in suitably glittering style, the CL65 AMG is also being offered as a "40th Anniversary" limited edition model. A new type of paint finish reflects the special status of this exclusive version, which is restricted to just 40 vehicles for the whole world. This exceptional AMG coupe is the very first series-production Mercedes to feature AMG Alubeam, a unique paint finish which has previously only been seen on a handful of Mercedes show cars.

A world first, this new process causes the paint to gleam like liquid metal. The color, which seems to be stretched over the vehicle body like a metallic skin, emphasizes the compelling lines of the large Mercedes coupe more effectively than any other paint finish while the light plays on them in a way calculated to make them even more vivid. This is made possible by the use of pigment particles which measure just 30 to 50 nanometers and are therefore able to be incorporated in the surface of the paint much more evenly. As a result, the light is reflected much more intensively and the luster of the paintwork is enhanced. To put this into perspective, conventional paintwork pigments measure between 100 and 300 nanometers.

This fine pigment structure calls for a perfect body surface which the Mercedes experts achieve by means of an elaborate preparatory process before the actual painting stage. It goes without saying that AMG Alubeam also has a clear coat with enhanced scratch resistance which offers greater protection from environmental influences.

Superb Interior Ambience with Special Appointments

The superbly styled interior also makes an impressive statement: the CL65 AMG "40th Anniversary" features two-tone EXCLUSIVE PASSION all-Nappa-leather upholstery with a diamond pattern, a color-coordinated Alcantara roof lining and embossed V12 logos on the front head restraints. The airbag unit of the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel is also finished in Nappa leather. High-quality trim elements made from genuine carbon add a decidedly sporty touch.

The "40th Anniversary" lettering on the center console confirms the exceptional character of the new coupe and at the same time serves as a reminder of the incomparable history of AMG. Further evidence of the car's highly exclusive status is provided by the "ONE OUT OF 40" badge on the hand rest of the COMAND controller.

Designed by the specialists of the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO, which was set up in 2006, the "40th Anniversary" CL65 AMG belongs to the exclusive "Editions" category of vehicles whose distinctive look and feel differentiate them from the series-production models and give them their special appeal.

V12 Biturbo Engine: Dynamic Performance at the Highest Level

The highest level of performance is guaranteed by the AMG 6.0-liter V12 biturbo engine with its displacement of 5,980 cc: its maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp is maintained between 4800 and 5100 rpm while the maximum torque of 1000 Newton meters (electronically limited) is available from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. These impressive engine data are the key to exceptional performance and superbly assured driving dynamics. But the powerful AMG twelve-cylinder unit is also in its element when cruising effortlessly in high gear. Its superbly responsive character is as impressive as its smooth, low-vibration running qualities which guarantee the high level of touring comfort typically associated with Mercedes.

Key Data for the CL65 AMG at a Glance:

Cylinder arrangement / valves per cylinder: V12/3
Displacement cc: 5,980
Bore x stroke mm: 82.6 x 93.0
Compression ratio: 9.0 : 1
Output kW/hp @ rpm: 450/612 @ 4,800-5,100
Max. torque Nm @ rpm: 1000* (738 lb-ft) @ 2,000 - 4,000
Acceleration 0-100 km/h in seconds: 4.4
Top speed in km/h: 250* (155 mph)
* Electronically governed

The twelve-cylinder biturbo engine of the CL65 AMG features the very latest technology from the world of motorsports. Highly resilient components and materials guarantee consistently high power and torque levels, even at extreme operating temperatures. A case in point is the charge-air cooling system which uses an air/water heat exchanger and a particularly large low-temperature radiator at the front of the vehicle. The maximum charge pressure is 1.3 bar.

The characteristic AMG twelve-cylinder sound is ensured by the AMG sports exhaust system with two twin chromed V12-design tailpipes. Catalytic converters with tri-metallic coating provide a faster response from a cold start, more efficient exhaust-gas aftertreatment and a longer service life. The CL65 AMG complies with the EU 4 emissions standard as well as specific requirements of the US market.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5-Speed Auto with Steering-Wheel Shift Paddles

The drive power of the new CL65 AMG is transmitted to the wheels by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT five-speed automatic transmission with AMG steering-wheel gearshift paddles and DIRECT SELECT gearshift. An "S/C/M" mode button in the center console allows the driver to choose between the "Sport", "Comfort" and "Manual" driving programs. As well as changing the transmission characteristics, these modify the accelerator response and the spring/damper settings of the AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control. Gears can also be shifted manually at any time by means of the silver-colored aluminum shift paddles on the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel.

AMG Sport Suspension Based on Active Body Control

The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control reduces almost all of the body movements that occur when moving off, cornering and braking. The CL65 AMG negotiates bends of every type with a greatly reduced roll angle while body roll during fast avoiding maneuvers is effectively suppressed. In this way, the AMG V12 coupe not only opens up new dimensions of dynamic handling, but also offers noticeably enhanced comfort.

AMG High-Performance Brakes with Innovative Twin Sliding Calipers

The polished 20-inch AMG twin-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey also contribute to the superb roadholding of the CL65 AMG. At the front, the 8.5-inch-wide wheels are fitted with 255/35 ZR 20 tires, while 275/35 ZR 20 tires equip the 9.5-inch-wide wheels at the rear. With their filigree spokes, they offer tantalizing views of a brake system, the like of which is not to be found in any other manufacturer's products. The system in question is the AMG high-performance brake system which sets new standards for stopping power, sensitivity and resistance to fading. In keeping with the innovative approach typical of AMG, the front brakes of the CL65 AMG are equipped with twin sliding calipers. A world first, this new technology combines the advantages of a floating-caliper brake - lower heat transfer to the brake fluid and significantly enhanced comfort as a result of the way the brake pads are located - with the performance of a large fixed-caliper brake.

At the rear, braking is handled by a large frame-type sliding caliper. Composite blind-drilled brake discs at the front and rear with respective diameters of 390 and 365 millimeters ensure the shortest stopping distances, excellent resistance to fading and outstanding sensitivity. Under emergency braking from 100 km/h at the permissible gross vehicle weight, the CL65 AMG comes to a standstill in 35.6 meters; this represents a maximum deceleration of 11.1 m/s2. Based on the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system, the electronically controlled dual-circuit hydraulic brake system supports numerous driver assistance functions - such as the PRE‑SAFEâ Brake system, Brake Assist PLUS and DISTRONIC PLUS - for even greater safety and comfort.

AMG Body Styling: Powerful and Elegant Design

The advanced technology of the CL65 AMG is complemented perfectly by the vehicle's powerful, elegant and dynamic design idiom. The AMG body styling and the self-assured lines of the large Mercedes coupe make a superbly cohesive formal statement. Large air intakes, side air outlets and round fog lamps with chrome surrounds dominate the front, as do the special AMG radiator grille with two horizontal chrome louvers and the darkened bi-xenon headlamps. Distinctive side skirts and "V12 BITURBO" lettering enhance the sides while the two twin chromed V12-design tailpipes and the muscular rear apron with its black diffuser insert make the rear of the vehicle particularly eye-catching.


Interior: Dynamic Style and the Finest Materials

Inside, too, the V12 top model impresses with its dynamic style and its use of the finest materials: the AMG sports seats have a special upholstery pattern as well as both multicontour and massage functionality; the EXCLUSIVE PASSION Nappa leather upholstery has a new diamond pattern. All four seats feature metal AMG badges. The AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel has a specially sculpted rim and silver-colored AMG aluminum gearshift paddles. Integrated in the AMG instrument cluster (which is calibrated up to 360 km/h and features "V12 BITURBO" lettering), the AMG main menu shows the currently selected gear and recommends when to shift up to the next gear. It also allows the driver to choose between viewing the engine oil temperature or the battery voltage as well as the "RACETIMER". Using the latter, the driver can measure lap times - when driving on a private race circuit, for example. A particularly notable highlight of the interior is the IWC-design analogue clock. Fine poplar wood trim elements as well as AMG door sills and the AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel complete the picture.

http://carscoopcar.blogspot.com/2007/03/mercedes-cl65-amg-612hp-v12-biturbo.html?m=0

Fiat Bravo Cabriolet Rendering

Today’s… cabriolet rendering is based on Fiat’s all-new compact hatch, the Bravo. To tell you the truth, we haven’t heard of on any future plans for an open-top Bravo but you have to admit that it sounds quite interesting. Infomotori’s proposition doesn’t specify whether the Cabriolet will have a soft-top or a retractable hardtop, but if Fiat where to create such a version I’d bet it would get the second. Via: Infomotori


Technorati: Fiat+Bravo, Cabrio, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, images, pictures,

http://carscoopcar.blogspot.com/2007/03/fiat-bravo-cabriolet-rendering.html?m=0

2008 Subaru Impreza WRX: More pictures breach the net

I hate to break it out to you but from the looks of it, there’s no hope whatsoever that the first set of scanned pictures we saw a couple of days ago might have been “chops”. First there’s a new set of official pics that Edmunds discovered… lying around the net with the quote: “Original photo source unknown” and second, we found a new scanned image from Motortrend Magazine, informing us that, “The MT video crew tagged along on our exclusive (…) photo shoot and scored behind-the-scenes loo at the new WRX”.

To be honest I’ve been left speechless with the Impreza hatch’s looks. What the heck where they thinking about when they designed the car? Even Kia's look better (or rather much better) than this dull-ugly duckling. At least from what we’ve heard they haven’t mucked around with the mechanics with the WRX getting a slightly uprated version of the current 225Hp 2.5-liter boxer engine. Via: Straightline


Technorati: Subaru+Impreza+WRX, New+York+International+Auto+Show, NYIAS, auto+news, car+news, automobile, cars, automotive, vehicles, autos, Carscoop, blogs, 2007, images, pictures

http://carscoopcar.blogspot.com/2007/03/2008-subaru-impreza-wrx-more-pictures.html?m=0

Honda Civic Type R Sedan with a 225Hp 2.0 i-VTEC released in Japan

As promised as last year with the prototype Civic Type R Sedan that was used as the official car for the 2006 F1 Japan Gran Prix (Suzuka Circuit on October 6-8 2006), Honda unleashed the production version that goes on sale throughout Japan on Friday, March 30. The Civic Type R sedan is fitted with a naturally-aspirated K20A 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine with a higher compression ratio and improved breathing delivering a maximum output of 225Hp / 165kW at 8,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 215Nm (21.9kgm) at 6,100 rpm. There’s no performance figures out yet but expect a sub 7,0 sec for the 0 to 100 km/h (62mph). Appearance-wise, I’ve said it before I’ll say it again; I just love white Civic Type R’s. -Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the official press release and 55 high-res images




































Press Release: Honda Adds New Type R to Civic Lineup

TOKYO, Japan - March 29, 2007– Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the all-new Civic Type R, a pure sports edition of the Civic with further enhanced driving performance. The new Civic Type R will go on sale throughout Japan on Friday, March 30

This new Civic Type R was developed to make the driver feel at one with the car for the ultimate driving experience in all driving conditions, including on circuits.

The all-new Civic Type R comes equipped with a specially tuned 2.0-liter normally aspirated engine matched to a 6-speed manual transmission. A lighter, more rigid body shell, specially tuned suspension, 18-inch tires and large 17-inch front disc brakes contribute to the Civic Type R’s ability to push the performance envelope. Newly developed aerodynamic devices further enhance high-speed performance while giving the wide and low form a more aggressive look. Front bucket seats, a unique instrument panel and other performance accessories contribute to an easier and more responsive drive.

Type R models are specially tuned to take full advantage of the potential of the base model and provide a racing car-like driving feel. First offered on the NSX in 1992, the Type R range was extended to the Integra in 1995, and the Civic in 1997. This latest all-new Civic Type R is the distillation of 15 years of technological progress and the latest expression of Honda’s “Challenging Spirit.”

Key Features of the Civic Type R

Exterior Design

The exterior employs a pure sports one-motion form design with aerodynamically advanced surface treatment and sharp edges. Newly developed aerodynamic devices include a large air intake in the front bumper and grille, a rear bumper with built-in rear diffuser, a high-mount rear spoiler, and extended side sill garnishes, giving the car an aggressive overall appearance.

•Specifically designed engine hood and front fenders.

•Specially designed shiny black chromed front grille bar, headlight sub-reflector and Civic emblem design.

•Type R red Honda emblem front and rear.

Interior Design

•The overall black color scheme gives the interior cockpit a racing car-like appearance, bringing the driver closer at one with the car.

•The front bucket seats are specially designed for Type R. Separate center/side construction with high side bolsters and optimized cushion rates help hold the body in place, helping the driver concentrate on driving.

•The multiplex i-VTEC engine revolution indicator alerts the driver that engine speed is approaching maximum allowed revolutions. Self-illuminated, lit with red-colored flashing lights and is strategically located for minimum eye movement in circuit and other high speed driving conditions.

•Other performance-oriented features include a small-diameter, genuine leather oval steering wheel, an aluminum ball-type shift knob, a short stroke sports shift linkage, metal sports-type pedals and footrest, and a separate, button-type engine starter.

Engine

•A higher compression ratio and improved breathing efficiency help the naturally-aspirated K20A 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine output a maximum of 165kW (225PS) at 8,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 215Nm (21.9kgm) at 6,100 rpm.

•NSX production methods contribute to smoother port surfacing, improving intake/exhaust airflow.

•Drive-By-Wire (DBW) provides for finer tuning of throttle response and power output.

•Optimum tuning of intake and exhaust manifolds provides for high output at high engine speed while also improving torque characteristics over a broad engine speed range.

Transmission

•A close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is matched to the Type R engine.

•Optimized gear ratios offer superior accelerations at high speeds, providing exhilarating performance.

•New features include a highly rigid aluminum transmission case while the addition of a baffle plate helps mitigate oil starvation at high cornering speeds.

•A short stroke shift linkage contributes to a sporty shifting feel.

Highly Rigid Yet Lightweight Body/Chassis

•The highly rigid Civic body and its advanced layout serves as the basis for an even more highly rigid, yet lightweight Type R body. Measures to enhance body rigidity while reducing weight have translated into a body that is 50% more rigid than in the Integra Type R production model sold between 2001 and 2006.

•Specially tuned suspension, high performance 18-inch tires, a torque-sensitive helical limited slip differential, large disc brakes for improved fade resistance and other performance-enhancing features contribute to higher cornering performance and stability for an exciting, racecar-like driving experience.

•The specially tuned suspension boasts revised spring and damping rates, and thicker stabilizer bars for improved vehicle stability.

•225/40R18-sized high-performance Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires.

•17-inch disk brake with Brembo 4-pot aluminum front calipers.

•Specially-tuned ABS/EBD system.

•Special lightweight 18-inch aluminum wheels are matched to black wheel nuts.

Safety Performance

•Honda’s original G-CON (G-force Control) technology is incorporated to create a body with a crash safety performance that is among the best in the world, withstanding a 55km/h full-frontal collision, a 64km/h front offset collision, a 55km/h side collision, and a 50km/h rear collision.

•The vehicle’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body provides a high level of self-protection and also improves compatibility toward other vehicles.

•The vehicle is also designed to help mitigate pedestrian injury in the event of a collision thanks to the use of impact-absorbing structures.

•The front seats are equipped with 3-point, load-limiting ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor) seatbelts with E-pretensioners.

•Front-seat occupants are further protected by standard driver/front passenger i-SRS air bags.

•ISO FIX compatible child seat anchoring bars and tether belt anchor plates are standard on the rear seats.

Environmental Performance

•The Civic Type R complies with the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport emissions regulations for 2005. PVC and Cr6+ use have been eliminated from interior and exterior components and wherever possible throughout the vehicle to achieve over 90% recyclability.

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