GMC Terrain

All-new 2010 GMC Terrain makes its world debut at the 2009 New York International Auto Show. The GMC Terrain is a five-passenger crossover SUV that blends bold styling with fuel efficiency and premium features.

"The new Terrain brings GMC's history of innovation and engineering excellence into a smaller, fuel-efficient package for today's buyer," said Susan Docherty, Buick-Pontiac-GMC vice president. "The capability attributes that make a vehicle a GMC are ingrained in GMC Terrain, making it an appealing choice for existing traditional SUV customers who are looking for distinctive styling and increased efficiency."

A new, 2.4L four-cylinder engine that features direct injection is expected to deliver best-in-segment highway fuel economy of 30 mpg. Maximum fuel economy is achieved in part with an "ECO" mode that is activated via a console-mounted button. When engaged, it lowers the torque converter lockup speed to 1,125 rpm to help save fuel on models equipped with the 2.4L engine.

Also available will be a 3.0L DOHC direct injected V-6 engine delivering an estimated 264 horsepower (197 kW). Both engines are mated to efficiency-enhancing six-speed automatic transmissions and offer a refined, confident driving experience.

"GMC is a strong, core brand for GM and the GMC Terrain crossover SUV is the latest example of how we're adapting to changing market conditions," said Docherty. "As we first demonstrated with the Acadia crossover, GMC is committed to offering the capable vehicles customers seek, with the personal technologies they expect."

GMC Terrain

The 2010 Terrain goes on sale in late summer, with front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models offered in SLE and SLT trim levels. A comprehensive list of standard and available features includes purposeful technologies such as:

Standard rear vision camera

Programmable power rear liftgate

Bluetooth hands-free phone capability

MultiFlex sliding rear seat that increases passenger comfort or provides optimal cargo space

Remote vehicle start

USB audio connectivity; MP3 playback

Seven-inch touch-screen navigation system and a 40-gigabyte hard drive

DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system with two independent screens

Standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio

Segment-best safety is anticipated, with features that include four-wheel disc brakes with StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control, as well as six standard air bags: dual frontal air bags; head curtain side air bags and pelvic/thorax seat-mounted side air bags. OnStar with one-year Safe and Sound service is also standard.

Bold styling

GMC Terrain has a balanced, athletic stance and offers a commanding view of the road. Its design is characterized by bold, muscular fender flares, representing GMC's aesthetic. Surfacing is angular yet refined, with a strong and capable front-end appearance that features precise, squared-off edges.

"We wanted to carve the GMC Terrain away from the pack and establish its identity as a powerful, fresh crossover SUV with a confident and strong stance," said John Cafaro Jr., director of exterior design, Global Crossover Vehicles. "Everything about the GMC Terrain communicates a sense of tailored toughness and passionate craftsmanship."

Additional design features include a unique, three-element grille that is accented by a prominent chrome surround and projector-beam headlamps mounted in large, rectangular housings with chrome accents.

Interior details and flexibility

The GMC Terrain's rich, premium interior is influenced by industrial sculpture and exudes refinement exemplified by contrast stitching and fine materials that create a structured look throughout the cabin. A "floating" center stack, highlighted by warm ambient lighting, houses a multitude of ergonomic comfort and convenience controls.

The GMC Terrain also features great attention to detail, with smart use of storage space and compartments that are suitable for a variety of items. They include an oversized glove box; a closed storage area in the instrument panel above the center stack; a closed storage compartment under the center armrest large enough for a laptop computer; and two-tier storage in the doors.

GMC Terrain's seats were developed to provide outstanding comfort and the standard MultiFlex sliding rear seat can be moved fore or aft nearly eight inches (200 mm), providing increased passenger comfort or greater rear cargo capacity. The 60/40-split rear seatback offers additional configurations for passengers and cargo; and the rear cargo area offers 31.6 cubic feet (894 liters) of storage, as well as one of the GMC Terrain's four auxiliary power outlets.



Confident and agile driving experience

Two new engines are offered on all GMC Terrain models, each with fuel-saving direct injection and variable valve timing technology. Vehicle highlights include:
New 3.0L DOHC direct injected V-6 engine estimated at 264 horsepower (197 kW), which delivers an estimated 25 mpg highway, 18 mpg city (EPA certification pending).
New 2.4L Ecotec direct injected I-4 engine estimated at 182 horsepower (136 kW) that delivers an estimated 30 mpg highway, 21 mpg city (EPA certification pending)
Driving range of more than 500 miles (800 km) with both engines, for less-frequent fill-ups

The powertrains are mounted on a rigid, body-integral structure, with single-piece body side stampings and targeted applications of high-strength steel. It is the foundation of a confident driving experience that is both smooth and responsive.

GM's first application of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology is used on 2.4L-equipped models. ANC uses microphones to detect booming sounds inside the vehicle and sends counteracting sound waves through the audio system's speakers, ensuring a quiet driving experience at almost all vehicle speeds.

The GMC Terrain rides on a 112.5-inch (2,857 mm) wheelbase and features a four-wheel independent suspension system, with wide front and rear tracks that enhance the ride and handling. A family of 17-inch, 18-inch aluminum and 19-inch chrome-clad wheels is available.

GMC Terrain's rack-mounted electric power steering system provides greater fuel efficiency on four-cylinder-equipped models, saving nearly 11 miles per tank of gas.

GMC Terrain will be produced at the CAMI assembly facility in Ingersoll, Ontario.

  ASTON MARTIN DB9  

In the most significant programme of upgrades since its world debut in 2003, Aston Martin DB9 range has received a complete package of styling, engineering and equipment enhancements.

As the most successful Aston Martin of all-time (an honor it shares with the V8 Vantage) the DB9 has established itself as the definitive grand tourer, thanks to an enduring combination of understated elegance, sporting character and genuine luxury.

For Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin's Chief Executive, the Aston Martin DB9 remains a very special car: "The DB9 is the quintessential sporting grand tourer and offers an unrivalled combination of driver involvement, character, luxury and refinement. This car combines our unique Aston Martin character with an uncompromised design philosophy, craftsmanship and trademark Aston Martin performance ability."

This new package of improvements compliments these core qualities perfectly. Subtle styling changes freshen the Aston Martin DB9's appearance, with a new front bumper, bright finish radiator grille and a re-shaped lower intake featuring bright hexagonal mesh. New headlight bezels, re-styled sills, silver brake calipers, 20-spoke diamond turned alloy wheels and clear rear light lenses complete the external revisions.

Under the skin the Aston Martin DB9's passive damping system has been replaced by a new Adaptive Damping System (ADS), which offers enhanced ride comfort together with sharper handling when switched to Sport mode. The ADS system is offered as standard equipment across the Aston Martin DB9 range, encompassing both Coupe and Volante (convertible). A new tyre pressure monitoring system, a revised Bluetooth microphone system and the addition of a new Double Apex alloy finish trim and Bang & Olufsen hi-fi options broaden the Aston Martin DB9's specification.

Aston Martin DB9

Aston Martin's Product Development Director, Ian Minards, explains that it is all part of an ongoing commitment to continual improvement: "The Aston Martin DB9 was the first car built at Gaydon adopting the VH architecture. It has evolved every year since, with significant changes including a power upgrade and successive reductions in CO2 emissions. The latest package of improvements goes further than ever, highlighting the Aston Martin DB9's qualities as a true sporting GT and underlining its role as the backbone car of our range."

The Aston Martin DB9 is available as either Coupe or Volante (convertible) with rear mid-mounted six-speed manual gearbox as standard or optional 'Touchtronic 2' six-speed automatic transmission. Production of the revised Aston Martin DB9 is already underway, with deliveries commencing in July. Prices start from £122,445 for the Aston Martin DB9 Coupe and £131,445 for the Aston Martin DB9 Volante.

Background

The introduction of the DB9 marked the beginning of Aston Martin's 21st Century renaissance. The first new model to be built at Aston Martin's headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, and the first to be built around Aston Martin's rigid, lightweight, bonded aluminium VH architecture; the Aston Martin DB9 was an immediate and unparalleled success, setting a new tone for Aston Martins of the future.
Since its launch in 2003 some 12,500 DB9s have been produced and delivered to customers in 34 countries. This establishes it as the most successful Aston Martin model of all-time (jointly with the V8 Vantage), surpassing total sales of the DB7. Current Aston Martin DB9 production volume is around 1,500 cars per year.

Engineering

Since the DB9's introduction Aston Martin has demonstrated the versatility of the VH architecture by developing the Vantage, DBS and Rapide model ranges. In the process Aston Martin's engineers have gained an increasingly detailed understanding of the VH platform, which in turn has led to the constant improvement and evolution of existing established models.
In this latest package of improvements for Aston Martin DB9, hardware changes focus on the chassis, featuring a standard Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which offers a system constantly evaluating the optimum damper condition, similar to that seen on the DBS and Rapide models. Controlled by a button on the centre console, the two-stage adaptive dampers can be switched between their default mode, which is optimised for ride comfort, and a firmer sport mode, which delivers tighter body control and a more responsive feel. Such is the success of the Aston Martin DB9's new damping system that the DB9 Sport Pack upgrade has now been discontinued. However a Sport design alloy wheel is available as an option.
Performance comes courtesy of Aston Martin's celebrated 6.0-litre V12 engine, which develops an unchanged 470bhp and 442lb ft of torque. Mated to a choice of six-speed 'Touchtronic' paddle-shift automatic or six-speed H-pattern manual transmissions, the Aston Martin DB9 offers an intoxicating blend of effortless pace and sporting character. A top speed of 190mph and the ability to hit 60mph in just 4.6sec seal its credentials as the definitive 2+2 Grand Tourer.

Design

Improving upon what many consider to be one of the most beautiful cars in the world is a delicate exercise. According to Aston Martin's Director of Design, Marek Reichman, subtlety and fine attention to detail is the key: "The beauty of an Aston Martin comes from harmonious proportions, a ground-hugging stance, taut surfacing and a complete and thorough attention to detail. The Aston Martin DB9 epitomises these qualities; it is beautiful but subtle - not attention seeking."
At the front a new bumper is the main change, with a re-shaped lower intake featuring hexagonal mesh to compliment the new bright finish radiator grille. New headlamp bezels complete the fresh nose treatment. In profile the Aston Martin DB9's sill has also been changed, with a more prominent 'hockey stick' curve ahead of the rear wheels. Marek Reichman explains: "The DB9 remains one of the world's most beautiful sports cars and is instantly recognisable as an Aston Martin; the changes we have introduced here modernise the Aston Martin DB9 to keep it at the forefront of automotive design."

Other changes include silver brake calipers, 20-spoke diamond turned alloy wheels as standard, together with new design option wheels and a bright finish grille. Clear rear light lenses are also standard. Inside Double Apex alloy finish is now added to the list of options, along with the exceptional BeoSound audio system from Bang & Olufsen.

Motorsport

Mirroring the Aston Martin DB9's road-going success, Aston Martin Racing's DBR9 and DBRS9 endurance racers have proved hugely successful on racetracks around the world. With a total of some 20 DBR9 and 30 DBRS9s built and delivered to customer teams around the world, Aston Martins have consistently scored victories in a host of national and international championships.

Since winning on its race debut, at Sebring in 2005, the DBR9 has been established as a constant and hugely competitive car in the GT1 category, scoring back-to-back class victories at the greatest 24-hour race of them all - Le Mans - in 2007 and 2008.

Posted by:

      MOHAMMAD SALEEM RAJA      

Peugeot 308 CC

As the pioneer of "folding roof cars" with its elegant 401, 601 and 402 "Eclipse" models from the 1930s, Peugeot has never lost its desire to give motorists the freedom to drive in either the coupé or cabriolet configuration through the "magic" of a rigid roof that folds into the boot.

It's now almost a decade ago, at the Geneva Motor Show in 1998, that this innovative motoring concept was launched in the form of the 20-heart concept car.

This concept soon evolved into the Peugeot 206 CC and the Peugeot 307 CC, popularising a concept which was considered, until then, only for the elite. The heirs to these successful first generation vehicles have already taken to the road in the form of the Peugeot 207 CC and the soon-to-be launched Peugeot 308 CC.
 
By the end of May 2008, Peugeot had produced nearly 632,000 coupé-cabriolets for enthusiasts of this "lifestyle" motoring concept, making Peugeot the world leader in this body style:
457,500 Peugeot 206 CCs and 207 CCs with their 2 + 2 architecture in the small car segment (B)
174,500 Peugeot 307 CCs with four full size seats in the medium car segment (M1)

Since the launch of the 307 CC in 2003, the structure of the lifestyle market has undergone a number of profound changes. Recently, cabriolets with a retractable rigid roof have become more popular than vehicles with a more vulnerable "soft top".


Peugeot 308 CC

For the majority of customers, the 307 CC was the household's main car. It was chosen for the intelligence of its design and for its elegance but was also greatly appreciated in daily use for its comfort, specification and ride quality.

The Peugeot 308 has already taken the place of the Peugeot 307 in its hatchback and its SW versions, offering all the benefits of its successful forerunner while, at the same time, imposing its new identity, modern feel and strong personality.

In the same vein, the Peugeot 308 CC with its four full size seats capitalises on the genetic codes of the 308, embodying the "307 CC spirit" and Peugeot's coupé-cabriolet expertise. Above all it promises enthusiasts of "lifestyle" motoring a unique and genuinely attractive offer.

An attractive design

The Peugeot 308 CC stands out by the superb fluidity of its style, both in its coupé and cabriolet configurations. From the badge to the end of the roof, from the door to the lower rear panel, the graphic style of its profile is emphasised by light reflecting contours. Chrome detailing further enhances this elegant profile.
Low slung and firmly planted on its wheels, the Peugeot 308 CC has a prominent shape and spectacular LED rear lights that use "red light curtain" technology to create a unique signature for the car by day and by night.

The passenger compartment has an undeniable personality. Particularly striking in the "cabriolet" version, it has a different feel from the hatchback and creates the impression of a grand touring car.
The sculpted front seats with their integral head restraints have inbuilt air vents which diffuse warm air around the occupants neck. The rear seats mirror this distinctive design and offer rear accommodation surprisingly generous for a cabriolet.

The door panels also have an exclusive design, incorporating an elegant yet dynamic and robust metallic inner door handle. The sporty steering wheel, the special finish of the instrument panel and the "black lacquer" centre console complete this theme.
In terms of the "sporty" "haute couture" feel of the car, the Peugeot 308 CC is clothed with dynamic fabrics, simple leather or even an "integral leather" trim. This now extends to the entire passenger compartment which is usually unseen in this segment. In Black, Vintage or Beige, the attractive interior trims differ according to the range of body colours: Fashionable pearlescent black, subtle "terre d'ombre" and also the established favourites: blue, red, black and grey are available.

A typical CC specification

Meticulously designed to enhance the day-to-day comfort and convenience of its occupants, the Peugeot 308 CC offers a multitude of "everyday" benefits.
The fully automatic retractable roof can be magically transformed in 20 seconds and the operation can be viewed on the colour display, turning the car into a dynamic coupé or an elegant cabriolet according to the mood of its occupants.

A coupé-cabriolet with four full size seats, the Peugeot 308 CC benefits from wider tracks and a wider body compared to the 307 CC, as well as a front seat structure which offers both generous leg room to the rear occupants and provides a good amount of space.
Two dynamic and flexible engines power the Peugeot 308 CC through a six speed manual gearbox. unless an automatic gearbox is preferred. They are the 1.6 litre THP 110 kW (150 bhp) turbocharged direct injection petrol engine and the 2.0 litre HDi FAP Euro 5 103 kW (140 bhp) diesel engine, the latter being also particularly environmentally-friendly.

The car combines both motoring enjoyment with efficient road holding. The wide tracks, the lowered ride height and high-performance suspension specially developed for this body style give the Peugeot 308 CC excellent potential, together with a real sense of security for the driver. The large 302 x 26 mm disc brakes are an equal match to the performance of the engines. This is combined with an ESP system that watches over the occupants at all times.

Inside the Peugeot 308 CC an excellent structural rigidity wards off any vibrations that might affect steering, rear vision or seat comfort. This is the result of carefully placed structural reinforcements: dampers that pacify, braces ready to take the strain.. In short, the Peugeot 308 CC offers a highly rigid structure and excellent vibration damping demonstrating Peugeot's coupé-cabriolet expertise.
An indispensable ingredient of comfort and convenience inside the car, the low interior noise levels of the Peugeot 308 CC in its coupé configuration will clearly set the vehicle apart from its competitors.

The Peugeot 308 CC is designed to create a real sensation of tranquillity in the passenger compartment. The structure is robust and designed to withstand and dissipate front and side impact energy. It is also supplemented by innovative and intelligent means of restraint that the cabriolet body shape dictates. They include a chest/pelvis side air bag built into the front seats and exclusively a side head air bag which is a world first, guaranteeing effective protection of all parts of the body regardless of seat position.
Within a few milliseconds of the risk of a rollover being detected (less than the blink of an eye), rear "pop-up" pyrotechnic roll-over protection bars create a passenger survival cell with the strengthened windscreen pillars designed for this purpose.
The aim of all this important safety work is to obtain 5 stars in the EuroNcap test for the protection of adult occupants of the vehicle.
In harmony with the seasons. The cabriolet configuration can even be enjoyed in cold weather, whether it's making the most of early spring, saying no to winter or driving with the roof down in beautiful snow bound landscapes. Peugeot offers all these pleasures to the occupants of the Peugeot 308 CC, thanks to its protective architecture, its intelligent air conditioning (which adapts its operation to the cabriolet body shape), heated seats, its windstop and. its remarkable "Airwave" system built into the front seats, which acts like a scarf by diffusing warm air adjustable for temperature/flow and direction.






Following are further typical CC features and equipment testifying to the ability of the Peugeot 308 CC to anticipate its occupants' needs.






Automatic remote-control locking of interior storage compartments (glove box and storage under the central armrest)


Centralised control of all four windows.


The special "rear seat access" function with electrically-operated seats.


Deadlocking of doors and selective unlocking.


LED courtesy lighting in the door mirrors.


Not forgetting a usable boot with dedicated storage spaces (including one under the boot carpet for the windstop), laid out to resemble a presentation box. Its capacity (VDA method) is 403 dm3 in the coupé configuration and 226 dm3 under the windstop in the cabriolet configuration (or 465 litres and 266 litres respectively in "water" equivalent).

Finally, to make the journey even more pleasant a wide range of WIP (World In Peugeot) options are available on the Peugeot 308 CC:



WIP sound, MP3 CD audio system


WIP Bluetooth, MP3 CD audio system, USB Box and hands-free kit.


WIP Nav, a user-friendly satellite navigation system offering a MP3 CD audio system, Bluetooth functionality and satellite navigation with a retractable 7" 16/9 colour display.


WIP Com 3D, a top-of-the-range satellite navigation system with a 30 GB hard disc and a Juke Box function, MP3 CD audio system, integral mobile phone, Bluetooth functionality, USB connector and a retractable, high-resolution 7" 16/9 colour screen with a 3D display.


The JBL Hi-fi pack with 10 speakers offering made-to-measure sound which recognises and adapts to the cabriolet configuration.

   

Audi TT Coupe

Dynamic design, enthralling performance and exemplary efficiency - the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are now more attractive than ever. The design of the lightweight bodies made primarily of aluminum and the interior have been revised with great attention to detail, while new technologies lower the fuel consumption of the compact sports car. New to the lineup is a powerful and highly efficient four cylinder: The 2.0 TFSI develops 155 kW (211 hp), but is content with an average fuel consumption of just 6.6 liters per 100 kilometers (35.64 US mpg).

Exterior design
The second generation Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster have made a name for themselves as design icons, similar to their predecessors. Awards such as the 2007 "World Design Car of the Year" document this status. A brawny, broad foundation, powerful shoulders and a flat roofline - the two compact sports cars have fascinatingly masculine lines. Their dynamic appearance is now even more expressive than ever.

The most obvious feature at the front of the car is the powerful bumper, which frames the larger air inlets with three-dimensional, sharply drawn out edges. The fog lights are set in chrome rings. Also sporting a new look are the lattice of the single-frame grille in high-gloss black and the optional xenon plus headlights. Twelve white LEDs arranged in a straight line at the lower edge of the headlights serve as the daytime running lights. These together with the wings in the headlight body are classic Audi design features.

Audi TT Coupe

The tubular, apparently floating reflectors of the tail lights add visual depth to the rear end of the car. The large tailpipes of the exhaust system - the 2.0 TFSI features a dual exhaust - and the larger, flat black diffuser set additional accents. A spoiler that extends at 120 km/h (74.56 mph) improves downforce.

The upgrades to the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster have added two centimeters (0.79 in) to both cars, which now measure 4,187 millimeters (13.74 ft) in length. The width of 1,842 millimeters (6.04 ft) and the height of 1,352 millimeters (4.44 ft) and 1,357 millimeters (4.45 ft) for the Coupe and Roadster, respectively, remain unchanged. The wheelbase measures 2,468 millimeters (8.10 ft). Four new metallic colors have been added to the TT color range: Scuba Blue, Oolong Gray, Volcano Red and Dakota Gray. Daytona Gray, pearl effect is also available with the S line package.

 Body
A key factor for the groundbreaking efficiency and excellent driving dynamics of the Audi TT is the body, which features hybrid Audi Space Frame technology (ASF). Lightweight aluminum is used at the front of the car back to the B-pillar, with steel panels used at the rear. This mix enabled the development engineers to balance the axial loads perfectly and keep the total weight extremely low - prime parameters for dynamic performance.
The Audi TT 1.8 TFSI weighs a mere 1,240 kg (2,733.73 lb), a good 100 kilograms (220.46 lbs) less than its closest competitor. The body of the Coupés weighs only 206 kilograms (454.15 lb), which breaks down to 140 kilograms (308.65 lb) of aluminum (68 percent) and 66 kilograms (145.51 lb) of steel (32 percent). The specific reinforcements in the TT Roadster - steel bulkhead, strongly ribbed sills, A-pillar and windshield frame - result in a 58 to 42 percent split of the two materials.
The ASF bodies of the Audi TT are not only extremely lightweight, they are also very strong and low-vibration, providing the foundation for sporty and precise handling, the quiet ride and the high passive safety. A package of finely tuned retention systems protects the passengers in the event of a crash. The classic cloth top of the TT Roadster is a perfect complement to Audi's lightweight construction principle. It contributes to a low center of gravity, fits ideally into the design line and takes up little space when folded.
Audi offers the soft top in two variants. The manual version features a central latch for opening and closing the top. An electrohydraulic drive opens the optional fully-automatic top in just 12 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31.07 mph). An additional acoustic mat further improves the already excellent acoustics and thermal insulation.

Interior

The interior of the Audi TT features a sporty design, dynamic elegance and generous amounts of space. The standard sport seats are mounted low and offer a high level of lateral support. The steering wheel is flattened at the bottom. The five round air vents and the arched cowl over the round-dial instruments exude the spirit characteristic of the TT. The ergonomics are logical and the fit and finish is uncompromisingly precise - just like always with Audi. When the ignition is turned, the dials of the speedometer and tachometer briefly run up to the limit before returning to zero.
The designers have added additional gloss to the fine interior. New aluminum-look applications shine on the steering wheel, the center console and in the door liner. Elegant accents are provided by rings, frames and strips in high-gloss black. The aluminum strip above the glove box door is now brushed gray. There are three new interior colors from which to choose - nougat brown, titanium gray and garnet red. The leather seat covers are specially treated to reduce thermal heating by as much as 20 degrees Celsius (68° F) when the Audi TT is parked in the sun.
The Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are sports cars with a high degree of everyday utility. The backs of both rear seats fold down in the 2+2-seater Coupé, expanding the trunk space beneath the long lid from 292 to 700 liters (10.31 - 24.72 cubic ft). The Roadster, which offers 250 liters (8.83 cubic ft) of storage space whether the top is up or down, can also be supplied with the option of a load-through facility.

Drivetrain
Three four-cylinder engines with turbocharging and direct fuel injection are available for both the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster. The two TFSI gasoline engines and the TDI combine sporty performance with groundbreaking efficiency - their fuel consumption figures have been reduced by up to 14 percent. All three engines are coupled with a recuperation system that recovers energy during braking and coasting phases.
New to the lineup is the 2.0 TFSI with 155 kW (211 hp), which replaces the 2.0 TFSI with 147 kW (200 hp) and the 3.2. With a manual transmission, the two-liter engine accelerates the Coupe from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 245 km/h (152.24 mph). Audi also offers the 2.0 TFSI with an optional drivetrain featuring the six-speed S tronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The spring from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) takes only 5.6 s in this configuration.
The Audi valvelift system AVS in the new 2.0 TFSI increases power, torque and efficiency. Equipped with a manual transmission, the TT 2.0 TFSI consumes only 6.6 liters of fuel per 100 km (35.64 US mpg) in the European test cycle. CO2 emissions are an exemplary 154 grams/km (247.84 g/mile). The best value posted by a competitor is 199 g/km (320.26 g/mile). Fuel consumption has improved by 1.1 liters/100 km over the previous model.
The 2.0 TFSI is a winner par excellence, having been named "Engine of the Year" five years in a row by an international jury. Its technology package combines high output with impressive pulling power. A constant 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque are available between 1,600 and 4,200 rpm. The long-stroke engine, which is extremely cultivated thanks to two balance shafts, has been painstakingly optimized for minimal friction.
The Audi valvelift system adjusts the lift of the exhaust valves in two stages depending on need. This reduces flushing losses in the combustion chamber and also ensures that the optimal flow of the exhaust gas is directed to the turbocharger, which in turn ensures that torque is developed quickly.
The combination of turbocharging and direct fuel injection also reduces the combustion chamber temperatures and the resulting tendency to knock. This allows a high compression ratio of 9.6:1, which improves efficiency.
The TT engine lineup includes two other four-cylinder engines besides the new 2.0 TFSI. The 1.8 TFSI, available with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive, delivers 118 kW (160 hp) and 250 Nm of torque (184.39 lb-ft), the latter between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. It launches the Coupe from a standing start to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds, with a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph). It consumes just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (36.75 US mpg) on average, which corresponds to only 149 grams of CO2/km (239.79 g/mile).
The Audi TT 2.0 TDI remains the only sports car with a diesel engine in its segment, and its efficiency clearly sets the standard. The Audi TT Coupe consumes just 5.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg), which corresponds to only 139 grams of CO2/km (223.70 g/mile). With 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque - the latter available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm - the standard sprint takes 7.5 seconds and acceleration continues until a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph) is reached. The two-liter TDI is mated to a manual transmission and quattro all-wheel drive.
A precisely shifting six-speed manual transmission transfers power to the wheels regardless of the engine. Audi also offers the S tronic dual clutch transmission as an option for the new 2.0 TFSI. This transmission switches between its six gears with virtually no interruption to the supply of power. The high-tech gearbox shifts extremely quickly and comfortably, either fully automatically or manually as the driver desires. Manual shifts can be made using the optional paddles on the steering wheel.
The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system is available as an option for the 2.0 TFSI with the S tronic; it comes standard with the 2.0 TDI. The hydraulic multi-plate clutch, which is mounted on the rear axle in the interest of weight distribution, is electronically controlled. During normal driving, it sends most of the engine's power to the front wheels, but can quickly transfer up to 100 percent to the rear wheels, if necessary.
The quattro drive provides substantially greater stability, traction and driving enjoyment, and is another unique selling point of the Audi TT in its class.

Chassis
The front suspension features McPherson struts, with aluminum components used to keep the weight of the unsprung masses low. The power steering is direct, sensitive and thanks to its electromechanical drive, highly efficient. The trailing arms of the four-link rear suspension are relatively soft in the interest of comfort. The connections to the three transverse links per wheel, on the other hand, are rigid in order to direct lateral forces into the body with precision.
Available as an option with all variants of the Audi TT is the electronically controlled Audi magnetic ride shock absorber system, another high-tech feature that underscores the unique character of the compact sports car. A fluid containing tiny magnetic particles circulates through the dampers. When a voltage is applied to the magnetic field, the behavior of the particles changes and thus the damping behavior of the fluid changes. A computer fed with input from a bundle of sensors controls the adaptive damping.
The driver can choose between two base characteristics, which are now even more clearly differentiated. In "Normal" mode, the movements of the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are balanced - equally agile and comfortable. In "Sport" mode, high damping forces largely suppress body roll. The Audi TT is tautly connected to the road, and its setup is highly dynamic.
Another option is available in addition to Audi magnetic ride - the Sport button. The driver can use it to adjust the characteristic of the gas pedal (with manual transmissions), the amount of servo boost for the steering and the engine sound in two stages.
The range of wheels has also been reworked, and now features 14 variants. The Audi TT 1.8 TFSI, the 2.0 TDI and the 2.0 TFSI roll off the assembly line on 17-inch aluminum wheels with size 245/55 tires.
Winter wheels are available in three sizes; the range of summer wheels extends all the way up to 9 J x 19 with size 255/35 tires. Mounted behind the large wheels are powerful brakes with large-diameter discs. The front discs are internally ventilated.

Equipment and trim
All versions of the Audi TT Coupe and TT Roadster come with a rich array of standard equipment. Among the highlights are the "chorus" audio system, a driver information system and - in the Audi TT Coupe - an automatic climate control system. Two navigation systems, a universal cellular phone preparation and the sonorous Bose Surround Sound system are available as options. The optional xenon plus headlights can be combined with a cornering light function.
The onboard computer with efficiency program comes standard in the TT. It displays all of the consumption-relevant data on the central display, and gives the driver tips for efficient driving. The gear-change indicator indicates the proper gear. Another function provides information on which vehicle systems, such as the climate control system, are consuming energy and how that effects fuel consumption.
Customizing fans will find a rich selection available in Color & Trim. It begins with the optional leather upholstery and includes four leather packages, an application package and two S line packages. The S line exterior package focuses on design modifications in the area of the bumpers, the air inlets and the diffuser.
The S line sport package features a black interior with many fine details in such places as the steering wheel, the seat covers and the applications. 18-inch wheels and body lowered by 10 millimeters (0.39 in) make the handling even more dynamic.

The updated Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster will debut on the German market in the summer of 2010 with only minimal changes in price. The 1.8 TFSI will be available from €30,200.

Acura TSX Sport Wagon

The all-new 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon made its world debut at the 2010 New York International Auto Show. The Acura TSX Sport Wagon offers a smart solution to modern utility needs with its balanced and efficient driving performance coupled with bold styling and versatile cargo capabile
"The Acura TSX Sport Wagon represents a smart choice for those seeking a vehicle with utility," said John Mendel, executive vice president, sales. "It's practical, fun to drive, luxurious and technically advanced, all while achieving an outstanding estimated highway fuel economy rating of 30 miles per gallon."

The Acura TSX Sport Wagon delivers flexible utility and generous interior space- perfect for those with a growing family or an active lifestyle. The Acura TSX Sport Wagon boasts an innovative and highly functional rear cargo space that includes a removable side panel to accommodate wider items such as golf clubs and integrated under-floor bins for hidden storage. Along with this sizeable cargo space, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon features a comfortable and spacious cabin with seating for up to five adults.

The Acura TSX Sport Wagon's practical utility is cleverly masked behind crisp lines and a sleek, European-inspired exterior. Bold wheel arches frame the 17-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels, giving the Sport Wagon an aggressive stance. The chiseled, muscular body and sloping roofline emphasize its performance capabilities while making it more aerodynamic.

Powering the Acura TSX Sport Wagon is a 2.4-liter, DOHC i-VTEC®, inline four-cylinder engine paired with a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission fit with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. The Acura TSX Sport Wagon delivers brisk performance while achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg on the highway. Drawing from its sports sedan roots, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon features agile handling and quick off the line acceleration, allowing it to easily tackle a twisty mountain road or swiftly navigate through city streets.

To enhance the driving experience, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon features the latest in advanced technologies including an available hard disk drive-based Acura Navigation System™ with an all-new 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic and Weather™ featuring radar image mapping. For the audiophile, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon will be available with an Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio System and a hard disk drive (HDD) for media storage. Additionally, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon is equipped with an impressive list of standard features, including a power glass moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, a premium sound system, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, and USB port and AUX jack music interface. Like all Acura vehicles, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon will come with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure.

The 2011 TSX Sport Wagon will be an entry luxury utility offering when it arrives at Acura dealerships in the late fall of 2010. The Sport Wagon will join the Acura TSX lineup, which already includes the popular 4-cylinder and sporty V6 powered sports sedans.