The new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S Jaguar XKR-S coupe
If it was still possible, Maserati has managed to improve a car already presented itself as the benchmark for luxury cars. In road tests the Quattroporte Sport GT S has reached a level of 10 and praise to ensure and Jim McCauley, road tester for the web magazine carkeys.co.uk, who had the pleasure of driving between Modena and Milan.
"In version Sport GT S Maserati Quattroporte has a frame that does justice to the new V8 engine," for which he designed an innovative geometry intake, redesigned cylinder head and modified pistons.
"The Sport GT S has a new distribution of weight, a trim further lowered compared to the reference model and a new transmission: it makes driving more enjoyable performance for total control, but the answers fast and accurate in all conditions, "said test driver, who also saw the pleasant attitude of the cabin," extremely comfortable, quiet and free of any vibration while driving is that during braking. "
These are just some of the features that induce McCauley, without hesitation, to say that the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S to be considered "the most desirable car made in Modena, seeing is believing." Source: Maserati
Jaguar is proud to announce the birth of a unique model of the XK series of sports cars - the new XKR-S.
The new, exclusive Jaguar XKR-S coupe is a leading experience in building Jaguar sports cars to a new level. It 's the fastest production XK ever, and offers a combination of performance, speed, dynamic excellence, luxury and craftsmanship that is the hallmark of every Jaguar.
Available only in Europe with a limited production of just 200 units, the XKR-S is derived dall'acclamata XKR and offers a driving experience of absolute focus on sportiness and performance.
The XKR-S is equipped with the 4.2-liter V8 supercharged 420 hp and can reach a top speed electronically limited to 280 km / h (30 km / h more than the standard XKR), due to the calibration of the engine, the improved aerodynamics and low weight. The structure and suspension have been specifically reviewed in the spring and shock absorbers, anti roll bar and new calibration system specification Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) to increase stability, balance and offer great driving pleasure without, however, compromising the qualities of comfort.
As a result of increased performance, the XKR-S is equipped with brakes "Alcon R Performance Braking System." Developed in collaboration between the engineers of "Jaguar's Special Vehicles Team" and the prestigious company specialized in braking systems for racing cars Alcon, the system has ventilated discs with radial grooves 400 mm front and 350 mm rear discs with light and rigid forceps monobloc six-piston front and four rear pistons. All four calipers are painted in red and have the logo "R".
The XKR-S coupe version will be available only in Ultimate Black and exclusive color with contrasting finish to the front grille, side sill moldings, side vents, new rear diffuser. The new details and the aerodynamic provide a lower front spoiler, side skirts, a rear spoiler and bonnet, plus a new bumper design that includes a chute at the rear diffuser as well as magnificent 20-inch wheels Vortex alloy of aluminum. The appearance of sportsmanship is emphasized also by the height reduced by 10 mm.
While all implementations in terms of aesthetics and mechanics are driven by the desire to offer better performance and improve driving dynamics, the allocations of the Interior shall ensure that the unique XKR-S remains, without doubt, the most oriented luxury. The full-grain leather upholstery colors: Charcoal with Ivory twin needle contrast stitching of the seats, the top of the dashboard, console central and interior panels (both sides of the front doors to the rear seats) make the interior very well kept and valuable. In addition, the inserts Piano Black wood, the roof lining in color Charcoal Alston luxury, as well as revised to incorporate the instrument panel indicating the highest speed and logos XKR-S. The steering wheel is leather-covered sewn contrast, the shift knob in leather / aluminum frame and the gear shift, alloy wheels, polished aluminum sport pedals, the XKR-S logo embossed on the headrests, door sill panels and floor mats, add further characterization to Internal already very special.
Complementing the audio system Jaguar Premium 525-Watt Processor Pro Logic II surround sound as standard, the Bowers & Wilkins has developed an impressive system of sound diffusion specially calibrated for the cabin of the XKR-S. High efficiency and low distortion are ensured by the mid-range speakers with Kevlar and aluminum dome tweeters with specially designed, offering a superb response to the mid and high frequencies.
The Jaguar XKR-S unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show on March 4 last year, will be available from summer 2008. Source: Jaguar
Challenging the practices and set their own rules, the new Jaguar XF fuses the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and sophistication of a luxury sedan. is the beginning of a new era for Jaguar.
The new XF is the extraordinary result of the new Jaguar design language, with which the driving pleasure even beyond the expectations created by his wonderful line, combining a relaxed and a sense of safety and technical inspections. The XF projects mark a new dimension. Aesthetically excited as a coupe, but its spacious interior can comfortably accommodate five people in a modern interior, in keeping with the style Jaguar.
the new XF's interior is adorned with luxurious materials processed hand, sophisticated instruments and calm interior mood lighting. The realization excellence and attention to detail put the XF's interior on a par with best in class, but they are the intelligent use of technology and simple touch screen controls to set new standards of comfort and ease of use .
XF All models use the shift-by-wire and mount the Jaguar sequential shift, which is used for the first time in a saloon and the XK already appreciated by customers. The shift-by-wire replaces the mechanical linkage of the manual transmission with electronic controls, ensuring quick couplings and soft, with time-shift gear change less than those of the XK.
With Jaguar sequential gearbox, the driver can take advantage of one-touch manual control by turning the steering wheel controls. The JaguarDrive ControlTM, whereby you can choose between 21 modes of transmission, including Dynamic and Winter, combines the smooth opening of the throttle body, the threshold of dynamic stability control (DSC) and the strategy of using the exchange according to driving style and road conditions.
However, the most exciting feature of the XF's transmission control is the new JaguarDrive Selector, the switch in the automatic mode, used for the first time in the automotive industry, which combines a control precise and intuitive access to a space-saving procedure.
Air-conditioning vents present a flush dashboard surface until the ignition off, start by turning with a soft motion at power. The JaguarSenseTM, allows the operation of interior lights of the hall and open the glove box thanks to sensors that detect the touch or proximity.
Every level of audio system features at least eight speakers on the top models of the XF, there is a high quality system designed in collaboration with Bowers & Wilkins, world-renowned specialists in the field of high fidelity. The functions include the radio system DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) digital reception. The XF also can rely on the Bluetooth ® system, the ability to connect iPod ® and MP3 players to control all their functions through the touchscreen, as well as an auxiliary port for connecting other portable audio devices.
Among other features, stand out JaguarVoiceTM control for the audio and telephone controls, monitor the blind spot, the control system for the front and rear parking and rear parking camera, adaptive control speed, the automatic speed limiter, the control system of the tire pressure The electronic parking brake, and more.
's advanced body structure, including high tech materials and design techniques of new generation, made it possible to increase strength and reduce weight to a minimum, ensuring the XF superlative levels of performance, refinement and efficiency across the range of V6 and V8 engines. Among these engines, detach the diesel version of the quietest in its class and a supercharged V8 from the performance.
The new XF has the best torsional stiffness in its class and has a wide track, features that enhance manageability. These elements underpin a dynamic character designed for the driver, without diminishing the comfort and refinement. As its herald lines, the new XF excels in every respect, as sports car or to travel long distances in a luxurious environment. Source: Jaguar
Stuttgart / Beijing. The world of compact SUVs has added a new model with a distinct personality: the new Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class. This versatile vehicle is distinguished not only for the line of the body, attractive and functional at the same time, but also because it combines features hitherto considered irreconcilable. Thanks to the selective AGILITY CONTROL suspension, Mercedes-Benz has succeeded in combining the highest levels of driving dynamics and safety with an outstanding ride comfort. The modern wheel-drive 4MATIC, in combination with electronic stability control gear, ensures exceptional performance on road and off-road a vocation impeccable. This ability to combine contrasting elements together makes it a Class GLK model absolutely captivating: an SUV designed for road use, but with a strong character off-road, as the letter "G" of the name, reminiscent of the original G-Class . "GLK completes our wide range of SUVs in compact form and contains the typical Mercedes-Benz qualities such as comfort and quiet march, dynamism and safety. Mercedes has further elevated the standard of reference in the segment, "commented Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Daimler AG.
The four six-cylinder engines boast brilliant performance and are contained in fuel consumption and emissions, the benefit of a greater environmental protection. The propeller base mounted on GLK 220 CDI delivers 170 hp and consumes 6.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. Equally convincing is the strength of the GLK-Class. The body is particularly strong and rigid to ensure passive safety 'cutting-edge, low noise and high livability and high value retention over time. The exceptional level of equipment and the interesting packages help to distinguish from other GLK compact SUV. In addition, for the first time in the segment are available the most modern electronic systems for driver assistance, for example, the innovative PRE-SAFE and the Intelligent Light System (ILS). With his imposing presence, the GLK-Class already underlines its leading position outwardly between compact SUVs and luxury, interpreting the essence of a modern twist. Are unmistakable references to Class G, icon of all Mercedes-Benz SUV. Prof. Peter Pfeiffer, Head of Mercedes-Benz design, said: "G-Class can be considered a true icon, has been referred to in the last 30 years in the design of the SUV models their design. GLK combines purist design with this new design language of Mercedes-Benz, serving as a model from the strong character and determination. "
Such an expression has never been seen in the world of compact SUVs . The proportions of the body (length: 4.528mm, width: 1,840 mm Height: 1,689 mm) are perfect, the clever play of angular lines (typical of the classic off-road) and the language of design that features the latest generation of models with Stella is absolutely fascinating. Formal language comes from the perfect combination of clean, taut lines and large areas with continuous cutting of the body of a functional off-road, with its short overhangs, front right, thin roof pillars, upright windshield and roof line taut. The exterior design is not an end in itself, but transfers the advantages of the SUV category in the compact SUV designed primarily for driving on asphalt. The large slope angle and good ground clearance allows a relaxed driving and agile on land off-road, while the compact body and good views on all sides (thanks to the raised position of the seats) provides guidance on street easy and relaxed even in the busiest. high levels of ride comfort, high driving dynamics and perfect control of off-road driving The selective AGILITY CONTROL suspension system provides enormous flexibility and resolve to better the needs of design of the chassis of an SUV on the one hand guarantees a quick and comfortable driving, it does not surrender to the typical characteristics of the terrain. If dealing with a casual and driving dynamics, the suspension - and in particular the dampers - must be rigid. However, this affects the ride comfort typical of the brand and limits the possibility of driving on rough terrain. However, if the structure should be soft to deal with rough terrain and provide a more comfortable ride, you will be penalized in this case, the driving dynamics. The solution is represented by a system suspension that adapts the structure according to driving conditions: in other words, shocks behave flexibly, depending on the situation. If you ride on paved roads or on rough terrain at low speeds the set-up becomes softer and provides more comfort. In the presence of a bright and sporty driving or abrupt maneuvers waste, the dampers stiffen, ensuring maximum stability. Parametric steering, standard on V6 models, ensuring optimum power assist in any condition, thus facilitating the parking and turning maneuvers off-road. At high speed, the power assistance is reduced in favor of a more stability.
GLK All models are fitted as standard tires that different - in combination with selective AGILITY CONTROL suspension and the asymmetric distribution of torque to the front and rear - provide a perfect transmission of power from the wheels to the road. The better the transmission, the lower the intervention of electronic control of driving dynamics. Release directed to ride on the road "for the exterior sports package" are mounted wheels 7.5 J x 19 with 235/50 R 19 tires on the front wheels, while on the rear wheels 8.5 J x 19 with 255/45 R 19 tires. GLK with "Offroad Style Package" front-mounted wheels 7.5 J x 17 with 235/60 R 17 rear tires and rims 8.0 J x 17 with 255/55 R 17 tires. All models use the system in case of a failure to TIREFIT wheels. A wheel is available as an emergency that can be mounted on the front wheels or the back.
4MATIC: permanent four wheel drive with the most modern control systems, driving dynamics The GLK Class 4MATIC powertrain can be counted among the most effective all-wheel drive systems, control systems and dynamic handling of the most innovative. Thanks to the concept of basic compact, lightweight and optimized in terms of friction, with a longitudinal engine and main gearbox / reduction unit blocked, this system has several advantages over other systems with a transverse engine. Among these, for example, fuel consumption, comparable to those of a conventional car with traction, or the quiet ride, which reaches levels up to now the prerogative of the higher classes.
The distribution of torque (45:55) between front and rear axle provides-in combination with electronic control of driving dynamics ESP ®, ASR and 4ETS - a safe and reliable road performance in all conditions , which can always count on traction, maximum stability and better handling. In developing electronic systems for dynamic control running, the engineers of the Mercedes-Benz Technology Center (MTC) have pointed in particular to a neutral self-steering behavior, to slightly oversteer in extreme situations. All GLK models show this behavior, in different situations: the dry, wet, in snow and ice shows and over rough terrain. The transition from then to conduct an oversteer understeer and vice versa, so frequent in this category and so destabilizing for the driver, does not appear GLK-Class. The new multi-plate clutch center differential in the support system, particularly in the presence of a low adhesion between the tires and the road, such as snow or ice. The locking base 50 Nm between the front and rear greatly increases traction while maintaining high stability.
The version with "Technical Offroad Package", simply press the "G" on the console to increase the resilience of GLK on the roughest terrain. Pressing the button, it activates a special driving program which varies the coupling points of the 7G-TRONIC, makes it "softer" accelerator characteristics and activates the curve function offroad ESP ¨. There is also a manual gear program, which allows gear changes via steering wheel controls. Another switch activates the DSR (assistive device for driving downhill), which automatically maintains a preset speed in very steep slopes. Even off-road features of the body is convincing because of the height of 300 mm ground clearance and short overhangs (front 816 mm, post. 955 mm), the slope angle is 24 degrees (front) and 25 degrees (back). Moreover, thanks to compact pitch (2,755 mm) and the relatively low weight for an SUV (1,830 kg), without addressing GLK offroad challenge even the roughest terrain.
The Electronic Stability Program (ESP ®), also includes the stabilization function TSA (Trailer Stability Assist) for trailer operation in addition to reporting to reduce tire pressure. The TSA helps to make less hazardous driving conditions with trailer, with contributions from calibrated braking at the first sign of skidding. The towing load is 2,000 kilograms.
brilliant Motors: new 4-cylinder diesel engine and V6 engines with proven reliability The modern range of engines available for the GLK-Class provides maximum comfort and performance with fuel consumption and emissions compared to the category. There are four engines: the diesel model GLK 220 CDI 4MATIC and GLK 320 CDI 4MATIC and GLK 280 4MATIC petrol engines and V6-powered GLK 350 4MATIC.
GLK 220 CDI 4MATIC is equipped with the latest generation diesel engine that provides exceptional value. The 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine, as well as the V6 GLK 320 CDI 4MATIC, follows the dynamic nature of GLK and ensures with its 125 kW/170 hp brilliant performance, with fuel consumption and reduced emissions. The couple is remarkable: 400 Nm available between 1,400 and 2,800 rpm. Among the most outstanding technical features of the CDI engine, compact and quiet with rear camshaft drive is the common rail direct injection of the fourth generation at a pressure of 200 bar and two-stage turbocharger. The car reaches 205 km / h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in just 9.0 seconds. Example is the impact environmental impact of this diesel has the lowest values \u200b\u200bof raw emissions. Like all diesel engines, which also is fitted with exhaust gas recirculation, oxidation catalyst and particulate filter requires no maintenance. In addition, the designers have managed to significantly reduce raw emissions. The quiet four-cylinder consumes 6.9 liters of diesel per 100 km and recorded just 183 grams of C02 per kilometer, already meet the limits of the EU5. The range also includes the well-known diesel V6 GLK 320 CDI, which delivers 165 kW / 224 hp and maximum torque of 540 Nm, for the benefit of absolutely brilliant performance. The maximum speed is 225 km / h, while acceleration equals about 7.5 seconds from 0 to 100 km / h. The V6 is equipped with exhaust gas recirculation, oxidation catalyst and particulate filter requires no maintenance. Fuel consumption of just 8.5 liters of diesel per 100 km in full compliance with EU4 emissions legislation.
The two V6 petrol models, particularly silent and mounted on GLK 280 4MATIC and GLK 350 4MATIC, is providing 170 kW/231 hp and 200 kW/272 hp and are noted for spirited performance and moderate consumption. The 3.5-liter V6 GLK 350 4MATIC particularly convincing performance really sports: the top speed is 230 km / h, acceleration 7.1 seconds from 0 to 100 km / h. Both engines meet the EU4 and, respectively consume 10.6 and 11.1 liters per 100 kilometers.
GLK All engines are matched to the standard 7-speed automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC. The performance and fuel economy are not only the result of perfect harmony between the ultra-modern engines, the 7G-TRONIC and the powertrain optimized in terms of friction. The relatively low weight (GLK 4MATIC 1830 kg) and good aerodynamics (Cd 0.36) make an important contribution in terms of performance and fuel economy.
Supplied complete security for the protection of occupants The highly stable passenger cell and energy absorption areas to front and rear are the solid foundations of the passive safety system on board the GLK. The following are the main safety features: dual front airbags
stage activation kneebag driver's side front side airbags, optional for the rear row of seats windowbags from pillar to pillar, in order to protect both rows of seats NECK PRO active head restraints for driver and front passenger crash-optimized foot pedal
3-point safety belts on all seats tensioners and adaptive belt force limiters for driver and front passenger, belt tensioners and force limiters Single-stage restraint system on outer rear seats fastening seat ISOFIX child adjust the height of front seatbelts Seatbelt warning instrumentation for the rear seats
The preventive protection system PRE-SAFE to request available for the first time for the compact SUV segment, Mercedes-Benz reaches even higher safety standards. The particularity of this system lies in the fact that all active and passive safety systems present in the car are interconnected in a network. PRE-SAFE uses the sensors of the ABS, Brake Assist (BAS) and ESP and optimizes the protective function of the passive safety systems in a hazard incident. The standard adaptive brake lights that start flashing when of hard braking to warn drivers of the danger below, also contribute to effective prevention of accidents.
GLK-Class has been optimized also the protection of pedestrians. Mercedes-Benz's philosophy is based on accident prevention. For this reason all versions of GLK are equipped with standard Brake Assist (BAS) which helps to reduce the potential consequences of collisions and significantly shortening the stopping distance, especially in emergency braking. On the front are also available large areas of energy absorption. The special shape of the front bumper and the elements for energy absorption (integrated in the bumper) foam more soft increase the protection of pedestrians and cyclists. Travel
relaxing on board the GLK-Class interiors seamlessly incorporate stylistic elements of the bodywork and the modern surface treatment design adopted by the Mercedes-Benz. The interior fittings, high-quality, comfortable wins for top quality materials and refinement of workmanship. The cozy atmosphere that is felt in the cockpit is typical of Mercedes. The most prominent feature is the bridge that goes to the door trim, thus giving a greater feeling of spaciousness to the interior, in itself already generous. Directly in the field of view dominates a molding enriched with the same elegant fabric upholstery. Alternatively, customers can choose different wood trim and aluminum, which continues even in the integrated control panels on the front and rear doors. The top of the dashboard covers seamless instrumentation and display a stationary center. The center armrest with storage compartment and integrated controller for the COMAND APS (on request), is placed in the perfect ergonomic position. For the operation of each menu, the controls are easy to intuition, the model already adopted for the S-Class Extra buttons to simplify access to main functions. The space is comparable to larger cars. The most important benchmark for the seating comfort: the distance between the bead and the reference point of the seat, is comparable to that of M-Class, which is considerably larger (front: 318 mm, post.: 346 mm). Comparable is the freedom of movement at head height on the front and rear seats, respectively, 1,010 and 1,012 mm. The luggage compartment with additional integrated under the floor has a minimum capacity of 450 liters. Supplied with complete equipment packages
The level of equipment and equipment for the GLK-Class is comparable to that of higher segment. Among Comforts of the series include the 2-zone automatic climate control, steering column adjustable for height and longitudinal direction, the driver and passenger seat with height adjustment and back angle adjustment of the inclination the seat, lumbar support 4-way adjustable seat for the driver and the audio system includes 20 CD radio with integrated Bluetooth interface for mobile phone, the microphone and display the central 5-inch color. Also standard are power windows on all windows and cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC. of the standard are also two equipment packages for greater customization of the car. Package For outdoor sports including, inter alia, alloy wheels with 19 inch 7-spoke sports suspension stiffer and lowered by 20 mm Pack with Chrome and aluminum roof rails. Alternatively, there is the Offroad Style Package, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, offroad pad, underrun protection on the front and rear apron, and Chrome Pack series. In this case, the roof rails are painted matte black.
other packages are available on request, such as engineering package with switch Offroad DSR switch, "G" for implementing the road map and a specific off-road underrun protection / underbody Gemtex in the weight-optimized and robust. With the COMAND APS, the system navigation have additional functions specific to the terrain. When you leave the area scanned, the driver can activate the recording function of the route, which records and stores the distance covered. The driver can then return to the starting point at any time by retracing the route recorded (as if it were to follow a sort of "Ariadne's thread").
Also available are the luxury automatic climate control with three zones, leather upholstery, fine wood inserts or Rear Seat Entertainment System with 2 screens, remote control, two wireless headphones and Aux-In for multimedia systems such as play station. The voice control system LINGUATRONIC ease the use of the COMAND APS. The fully electric seat adjustment with 10 positions with memory function allows you to set the seat position as a function of body size. The 20-inch alloy wheels and electric sliding panoramic roof can be ordered for all models. Highly recommended is the Intelligent Light System (ILS) with five lighting functions that are activated depending on driving conditions and weather (cornering lights, how Çstrade extraurbaneÈ, ÇautostradaÈ mode, fog and active mode ÇfendinebbiaÈ enlarged).
Mercedes-Benz GLK Edition One: limited-edition model for the launch For the launch of the GLK-Class design is an exclusive model Limited to 1,000 pieces called "Edition One". This exclusive version is based on models with Sport package for the exterior, and also has 20-inch wheels, EASY-PACK tailgate, electrically operated windows and slightly obscured by the rear compartment. The interiors are based on the version with sports package and are embellished with details of great refinement. Nappa leather seats of the design version, the multifunction steering wheel in leather AMG, the black sky, the wood trim and COMAND APS are exclusive standard. Basic Edition One GLK models are available in white calcite, but you can also choose other colors. As for the engine, the GLK Edition One can be equipped with all V6 engines. Mercedes SUV offers the industry's richest
Mercedes-Benz is the House that offers the most extensive range of SUVs in the premium segment. GLK is the fifth series of this segment continues to grow. Meeting the demands of customers, the House initially extended its range in the first parallel and then up to Class A, Class M, Class and GL Class G and is thus now complete this range of success with a compact SUV, GLK.
R-Class is the most extensive series of versions and convinces in particular for its extraordinary comfort on long journeys and for the exceptionally generous interior and versatile, capable of carrying up to seven people. Sport Utility Vehicle Mercedes-Benz's best-selling the world (approximately 900,000 units) and M-Class, which excites the extraordinary balance. This series debuted ten years ago with great success and can be considered the pioneer of all modern SUV category. The GL-Class Mercedes-Benz is positioned at the top of the entire SUV segment since 2006. GL-Class offers passengers the highest levels of comfort in all driving conditions, both on off-road. The original "G" is celebrating its 30th anniversary next year and is appreciated in particular for its off-road capability. To date, G-Class is one of the best terrain in the world.
GLK-Class is manufactured in Bremen
GLK is produced solely Daimler factory in Bremen. The production site, recognized in 1969 by Hanomag-Hentschel and until 1961 the production of Borgward, is an integral part of the complex international production of Mercedes-Benz and it gives the home plant of Class C, Class C and Class Sedans GLK, quality standards for all establishments in this Series.
In Europe, the GLK compact can be ordered from July of 2008, deliveries will begin in October. Prices have not yet been set. Source: Mercedes-Benz
