Hot Cars

BMW M3 Concept Car

The name M3 is a symbol of unique performance on the racetrack and in everyday motoring. For more than two decades, the BMW M3 has represented the athletic heart of the brand in its most fundamental and succinct form. Its dominating role in motor sports and the ultimate driving experience it affords the driver on the road are inseparably intertwined. Such qualities have given the BMW M3 the exceptional status it enjoys the world over.

At BMW M GmbH, engineers have used this experience to create the new BMW M3 Concept Car. The concept study presented to the public for the first time at the 77th International Motor Show in Geneva (8th to 18th of March, 2007) gives a first impression of what a future BMW M3 might look like.

The BMW M3 Concept Car, with its Chrome Shadow exterior finish characteristic of previous BMW M GmbH concept studies, is a derivative of the new BMW 3 Series Coupé. However, few components are adopted directly from the ‘standard’ model. Just the headlights, rear light clusters, the two doors and the boot lid are carried over.

All other components were specially engineered for the BMW M3 Concept Car, lending the vehicle a unique look that accentuates its superior power. Features that make the BMW M3 Concept Car stand out are the bespoke front and rear bumper and spoiler designs, a bonnet with a bulging powerdome plus two air vents, side gills complete with M-designation on the front wings, side skirts and double strut exterior mirrors as seen on previous BMW M cars.

Audi Challenges 3-series Coupe With New A5

Audi is taking the fight to arch-rival BMW with the launch of its new A5 and S5 four-seater coupes. The cars are pitched squarely against BMW’s 3-series coupe – and its M3 performance derivative – as Audi continues its bid to become the number one luxury car maker in the world. Audi’s strategy involves broadening its range into every imaginable niche – A5 is the third new coupe to be launched in the past 6 months, following the all-new TT and R8 models. Audi’s UK dealers have already taken more than 1,000 orders for the £77,000 R8, which is pitched against another German performance icon, the Porsche 911.

When A5 and S5 go on sale in July, only the upper-range models will be available: 3.2-litre V6 FSI petrol with 265PS featuring new valve-lift technology; 4.2-litre V8 FSI petrol with 354PS, revised 2.7 TDI with 190PS, revised 3.0 TDI with 240PS.

Pricing will range from £30,175 OTR for the A5 2.7 TDI to £40,025 OTR for the S5 quattro. Smaller-engined models, including the base 1.8 version, will follow in 2008. An ultra-high performance RS5 is also under development – and this could have a version of Audi’s V10 engine.

The A5’s design was inspired by the Nuvolari concept study shown at Geneva four years ago. It is the first model to be built on the new A4 platform – the new A4 will follow at Frankfurt in September and could reach UK showrooms by the end of the year. The third model to be built on the A4 platform will be the Q5 SUV, expected to make its debut at Geneva in 12 months’ time.

Run-out of the old A4 is likely to prevent Audi UK sales from hitting 100,000 this year – though they are expected to be up on 2006’s 87,000 sales. Indeed, Audi can’t make enough right-hand drive cars to satisfy UK demand, said Audi spokesman Jon Zammett. “We have an order bank of 26,000 cars, and a six-month waiting list for the TT,” he said.

Ten years ago, Audi had six models in its range. Now it has 25. One of the final pieces of the jigsaw is the A1 small car, which is scheduled for a 2009 debut, finally offering a serious rival to BMW’s Mini. The design has yet to be signed off, but Audi has confirmed the car will be built in Brussels. It’s expected to resemble the Shooting Brake concept of two years ago.

World Premiere Of Toyota Hybrid X Concept

Toyota presents a world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show with the reveal of Hybrid X, a concept car that proposes a new design language for hybrid models, while also acting as an innovative technology showcase for future generation hybrid cars. Hybrid X is a vision for future environmentally friendly motoring. It fits clearly within Toyota’s environmental strategy of offering sustainable mobility for modern families. Hybrid X further extends the use of Hybrid Synergy Drive® which is becoming an enabler for vehicle concept innovation and allowing Toyota to push forward to new frontiers.

Hybrid X is designed as a four-door, four-seat open-space concept. It has the dimensions of a conventional family car with an overall length of 4,500mm and wheelbase of 2,800mm. The width is 1,850mm and height 1,440mm.

Hybrid X has been created and developed by Toyota’s European styling centre, ED², in the south of France. It proposes unconventional creative solutions that will themselves potentially become the signature points of a specific hybrid identity.

Hybrid X follows the core values of the Toyota brand design philosophy under two consistent themes: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japanese-inspired design and cultural form, while Vibrant Clarity is the design language used to express the J-Factor. Through Vibrant Clarity, designers will infuse future vehicles with a completely original identity and emotional intensity that will be uniquely identifiable as coming from Toyota.

Interior designer, Laurent Bouzige, says: “Hybrid X is conceived as a multi-sensory experience. There is a formal style in the shape of the vehicle and the material used but every other reaction is linked to the passengers’ senses of sound, smell, sight and touch through interactive ambience.”

The strongest form element of the exterior shape is the two ‘U’ shapes created by the massive upper glass frame area and the unconventional A and C pillars. When viewed from above this gives the impression of a vast X – hence the name of the concept, Hybrid X.

The U-shaped pillars allow the general shape of Hybrid X to achieve a superior aerodynamic form, which is further enhanced by smooth surface lines and the integrated rear spoiler.

At the same time, the glass area greatly enhances visibility to create an ‘open-space’ concept which ‘frames the vision’ in all directions, including up.

Access and innovation are features of the rear-hinged passenger doors which open electronically at the touch of a button. Dynamic hints of driving performance are provided by the customised 20-inch alloy wheels with ultra-low profile 225/40 R20 tyres.

The smooth, aerodynamic lines of the front are unbroken by headlamps. Instead, these are integrated into the dashboard and are now part of the car’s interior. These LED lamps are ‘intelligent’ and display graphic forms through animation, adopting the interactive concept of Hybrid X to communicate safety information to pedestrians or other drivers, such as safety distances, acceleration and braking.

Across the rear the energy-efficient LED lights form another U shape, reflecting the design signature of vehicle as a whole.

The driver can set the ambience within the car via an interface controlling the four senses of sight, sound, touch and smell. LED lighting systems within the car provide a variety of illumination and change in harmony with different musical backgrounds. A perfume diffuser fills the air with a gentle, relaxing aroma, while the use of many different materials and textures on the interior surfaces provides variety to the touch.

The drive-by-wire steering pad features a central screen that relays vital information to the driver about the energy flow path, fuel consumption and gear position. Interactive navigation and Bluetooth connectivity are provided by a second screen in front of the driver.

A third touch screen in the console controls the ambience settings, such as the entertainment and audio systems, lighting operation and air conditioning. A sensitive touch control on the steering pad allows the driver to switch the information displayed on the screens.

The space saving seats are formed using injected foam techniques, which make them comfortable and reduce weight. In order to further promote human interaction, the two independent rear seats can be swivelled by 12 degrees to let passengers enjoy the scenery or a more intimate tête-à-tête.

For now, it is clear Hybrid X is an innovative vehicle that conceives how Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology can deliver economical, cleaner and more comfortable motoring. It is a step closer to Toyota’s vision of the ultimate environmental driving technology and its design will influence the entire Toyota brand and its hybrid models in the future.

SEAT Altea Freetrack Prototype On Display At Geneva Motor Show

SEAT is tantalising those visiting its Geneva Motor Show stand this year with a dramatic concept that points the way to a future production car: the Altea Freetrack Prototype. Far from being a mere styling exercise for the Technical Centre in Martorell, the concept gives a preview of the design and technological innovations of the Altea Freetrack, destined to arrive in the near future.

The Freetrack Prototype is 185 mm higher than the Altea XL on which it is based, which results in impressive approach, departure and ramp breakover angles. These features, combined with its full four-wheel-drive system, make the Freetrack Prototype a genuine off-roader.

The Altea Freetrack Prototype has an aggressive look that reflects its adventurous character, and yet it retains the dynamic look that is expected of the Spanish brand. Moving inside, the model’s 2+2 layout and racing-style bucket seats are the most eye-catching details. In addition, there is a storage area situated between the rear seats, incorporating two practical foldaway trays.

Power comes from SEAT’s 240 PS 2.0 T FSI engine, which recently debuted in the new Leon Cupra, coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox. With this potent engine, the Freetrack Prototype is a car that can satisfy many demands: it has the loading capacity and interior space of a family vehicle, the technology and capability of a 4×4, and the thrills and performance of a sports car.

The principal change is a chassis with 310 mm of ground clearance. The Altea Freetrack Prototype measures 1,766 mm in total, making its angles of approach and departure and its ramp breakover angle those of a true off-roader: 26°, 29° and 23° respectively. The model’s width has also been increased by 60 mm, mainly to accommodate the imposing 255/50 tyres mounted on 8J x 19” wheels.

Plastic side guards with aluminium inserts, which protect the body against knocks from rocks and other obstacles, leave no doubt as to the robust nature of the Altea Freetrack Prototype.

At the front, there is an attention-grabbing exclusive bumper with square grille air intakes, a new feature compared with recent SEAT design. The bumper itself is totally smooth with no moulding or edges, while the lower section incorporates two LED fog lights with aluminium casings.

At the rear of the vehicle, the standout feature is the spare wheel which is fitted into the hatchback, covered with trim bearing the SEAT logo. Two triangular-shaped tailpipes integrated into the bumper also catch the eye, while the tail lights are made with transparent glass.

Viewed side on, the impressive five-spoke 19” wheels really demand attention. Plastic guards located on the lower part of the doors and over the wheelarches give the Altea Freetrack Prototype the undeniable air of a 4×4. A further noteworthy element are the door mirrors, featuring integral indicator lamps, which are located on the doors and not on the A-pillars.

The Altea Freetrack Prototype has been designed to enable customers to enjoy the great outdoors and access areas which are out of reach of most vehicles. A stunning panoramic tinted roof makes the most of the view, while also preventing too much sunlight from entering the cabin and overheating the interior. The luggage rack, exclusive to this model, is also located on the roof.

One feature that cannot be missed is the colour used for the concept: an exclusive matt white finish, developed exclusively for this prototype.

The interior is truly luxurious, with two-tone brown and white leather upholstery, individual bucket seats, and front seats that can be electronically adjusted.

The centre console really catches the eye. Two screens concentrate driving data in the upper section, including that for off-road driving, with air conditioning information in the lower section. The air vents are a new design, exclusive to Freetrack.

The 2.0 T FSI engine’s power is directed to the four wheels via a Haldex-type arrangement with a hydro-mechanical connection and electronic control, to ensure that the tractive force is distributed permanently in a progressive and precise manner.

As such, the Altea Freetrack Prototype represents the ideal solution for anyone who wants to explore the most challenging off-road terrain with the whole family, but is also looking for a high-performance car that allows them to enjoy on-road motoring to the full.

New Special Edition Jaguar XKR Portfolio Revealed

Jaguar Cars is adding even more appeal to the ‘must have’ XKR with the unveiling of the all-new special edition Portfolio model. The 4.2-litre supercharged sports car will be sold worldwide and each one will feature notable additions to the already strong specification of the XKR, which is capable of hitting an electronically controlled top speed of 155mph and can accelerate to 60mph in just 4.9 seconds (5.0 seconds for the convertible).

The XKR’s already powerful sporting styling cues – an enhanced front bumper, bonnet louvres and aluminium-finish grilles and side power vents – will remain and exclusive Celestial Black exterior paint and 20-inch polished Cremona five-spoke alloy wheels add to the overall presence.

The XKR’s interior represents a truly sophisticated yet driver-focussed environment thanks to class-leading ergonomics, user-friendly in-car technology and simple, clear information displays in the instrument panel and main dashboard area.

The XKR Portfolio will combine this acclaimed design and performance with Jaguar’s engineering and craftsmanship skills to take the XKR to an even higher level. Every XKR benefits from its class-leading, advanced aluminium construction, which ensures that its power is matched by a dynamic, lightweight chassis that handles supremely, rides exceptionally well and stops with surefooted reassurance time after time.

Now, to offer even greater braking ability, Jaguar’s Special Vehicles team has worked alongside leading brake manufacturer Alcon to create the largest, most powerful brakes a production Jaguar has ever carried. After extensive testing by experts at Jaguar’s specialist engineering centre (which is based next to the legendary Nürburgring race circuit in Germany), the new XKR Portfolio braking system was conceived.

400mm front brake discs – an increase of 45mm over the standard XKR – are retarded by powerful six-piston callipers, while at the rear four-piston callipers operate on 350mm discs. Innovative race-developed crescent-shaped grooves cut into the surface of the discs prevent a build-up of deposits on the brake pads and improve braking performance under extreme use.

By allowing the heat created within the system to dissipate quickly and efficiently the XKR Portfolio’s brakes produce fade-free performance whilst maintaining a Jaguar renowned blend of refinement and stopping power. Unique ‘R’ branding on the front brake callipers reveals the six-piston set-up beneath.

Surrounding the XKR Portfolio’s brakes are polished 20-inch five-spoke Cremona wheels, while behind the front wheels sit all-new Power Vents which are hewn from polished aluminium and incorporate the indicator side repeater and Jaguar signature ‘ingot’. An exclusive Celestial Black exterior paint will also serve to differentiate the XKR Portfolio edition.

A host of new additions to the interior further the luxurious look and feel of the XKR Portfolio. A unique, and quite beautiful, Engine-Spun aluminium veneer is standard on the Portfolio. A new alloy and leather gearshift selector, soft-grab door handles, contrast stitching throughout the cabin, leather-edged mats with a Jaguar logo and distinctive Portfolio treadplates on the doorsills complete the effect.

The interior will also be the soft grain leather ‘Luxury Sport Interior Theme’ with seats in either warm charcoal (with ivory contrast stitching) or ivory (with charcoal contrast stitching).

The XKR Portfolio also marks another first for Jaguar: the first production example of its new partnership with renowned audio entertainment specialists Bowers & Wilkins. This world-leading loudspeaker manufacturer worked alongside Jaguar to create a stunning speaker system for the recent C-XF concept car, but the XKR Portfolio is the first production Jaguar to benefit from the relationship.

Taking Jaguar’s 525W Premium Audio system with Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound as a starting point, Bowers & Wilkins have crafted a signature speaker system specifically for the XKR’s cabin. High-output, low-distortion Kevlar mid-range speakers and specially designed aluminium-dome tweeters deliver superb mid-range and extended high-frequency responses.

The new Jaguar XKR Portfolio special edition is available to order from the end of March 2007 with deliveries expected later in the summer.

Lotus Offers Luxury Touring Pack Option For Europa S

The Europa S, the Lotus that introduces the brand to enhanced levels of practicality and refinement, has a new Luxury Touring Pack Option which stretches the Europa S towards the more luxurious end of the spectrum. The Luxury Touring Pack Option dresses the interior in the smart attire of saddle tan leather, chocolate coloured leather and brown carpets.

Where the standard Europa S uses lightweight composite components for items such as the steering column shroud, dash top, instrument and ventilation binnacles and sill covers, the Luxury Touring Pack Option on the Europa S covers these and other components with four hides of soft high-grade saddle tan coloured and chocolate coloured leather.

Supportive sports seats are fitted and are also clad in saddle tan and chocolate coloured leather in a stripe pattern. Safety critical composite components such as the passenger airbag door are coated in a high-tech soft-to-the-touch material. An engine start button and a solid Walnut and Tulip wood gearknob finish off the interior package.

The Luxury Touring Pack Option also stretches to the boot: with brown carpet covering the whole of the boot area including the battery cover, a saddle tan coloured leather trimmed tailgate inner, luggage straps to prevent luggage from moving in the boot, and a saddle tan coloured leather oddment bag which is fixed to the boot compartment.

Exterior additions to the Luxury Touring Pack Option include tinted rear and rear three-quarter glass, body coloured front driving lamp surrounds, side air-intake surrounds and roof air-outlet grill. All other exterior grilles such as the front radiator grilles and the rear light grille surrounds are coloured silver.

All these added luxuries add very little weight to the feather-light Europa S so spirited drivers will not be penalised by opting for the Luxury Touring Pack.

The Luxury Touring Pack Option is available on the Lotus Europa S from April 2007 priced at £1,250 in the UK and EUR1,750 in Europe (excluding local taxes), with prices in other markets to be announced shortly.