2008 Jaguar XJ debuts at the Geneva Motor Show

The biggest change is at the front end, where a new grille features an enlarged version of the Jaguar “growler” badge – the roaring Jaguar face. The grille extends into the lower half of the bumper. This is not the grille that will be used on the Jaguar XF, the S-type replacement, however. That car will get a brand new grille that will feature on all new Jaguar saloons.
Other exterior changes include the wing-mounted vents, similar to the Jaguar XK’s, lower sill covers and a reworked rear end incorporating new bumper designs and a subtle lip spoiler on the boot lid. New door mirrors now carry an integrated indicator.
Inside, the Jaguar XJ’s rear legroom has been increased by redesigning the seat backs and cushions, and heated front seats are now standard across the range. The front seats themselves have been reworked as well.
However, reports that the Jaguar XJ will share its future engine lineup with the upcoming Jaguar XF sedan. We've learned already that the Jaguar XF will feature an intriguing engine lineup that includes a base 4.2L V8, a supercharged 4.2L V8 producing 420 hp and a supercharged 5.0L V8 producing around 500 hp in the range-topping R-badged models.
Prices go up for the 2008 model year – the range starts at £43,540 for the 3.0-litre petrol Executive, an increase of £500. The range-topping XJR goes up by £600 to £60,150.

autocar.co.uk

2007 Saleen/Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang

That Saleen S281 SC Mustang was a 2006 with 435 hp and a lot of "hey, look at me" add-ons. A real kick in the pants in a straight line, but not our first choice for the twisty roads we enjoy so much. When we returned that S281 to Saleen, they mentioned that their newest special edition product would be available soon. When the words "Parnelli Jones" escaped the rep's lips, we felt a surge of adrenaline that led to an involuntary, "How soon?"

The 2007 Saleen/Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang was first shown at the New York Auto Show last year. It promised 370 hp and a beefed up suspension that would emulate the performance of the 1970 championship-winning Boss 302 that Parnelli Jones helped make famous back in the golden era of Trans-Am racing. With retro touches like the Grabber Orange paint, black stripes, rear wing, jutting front lip, chrome surrounds on the grille and rear lights, rear window louvers, Minilite-like wheels, and the Shaker hood, it instantly became our favorite Mustang.







We couldn't wait for our chance to get behind the wheel. We wanted this car in a most unhealthy way. That initial lust was put to the test however, as we had to wait almost a year for our chance to try it on for size. But as they say, anything worth having is worth waiting for. A couple of details changed from concept to production. Horsepower and torque both got a boost, eventually reaching 400/390, which is nice. Not so nice - The price also rose a bit from the "mid- 50s" estimate to an as-delivered price of $61,565, including gas-guzzler tax and delivery. Sixty grand for a Mustang might seem steep to some, but we faced pretty much the same dilemma with the GT500, Roush and S281. And in the case of the PJ, Saleen is fairly certain they will easily find 500 buyers who agree it's worth every penny.

Drivetrain
The heart of the Parnelli Jones Edition is its Boss 302 engine. Ford wants the Boss label for a future project, so although the 302 appears in oddly familiar script around the vehicle, the word Boss is nowhere to be found. That's ok. We see the similarities. In place of the 4.6-liter SOHC V8 of lesser 'Stangs, the PJ has a true 302. It starts out as a 4.6, but Saleen strokes and bores it to make it a Five-Point-Oh. They also add bigger injectors, ported aluminum heads, performance camshafts, forged-aluminum pistons, forged-steel connecting rods, a forged-steel crank and dual exhausts with bitchin' big oval tips. Oh, and that huge Shaker scoop up top.

Turn the key and it does indeed shake. It also sets off car alarms within 4 parking spots of yours. Really. It revs freely and keeps going well past what you feel it should. Especially if you've driven other recent muscle cars. The whole time producing a wonderfully sonorous wail. The difference between the powerband on this and on the S281 SC is like night and day. Where that model sported an on/off switch in place of the throttle, this one is incredibly smooth and so easy to modulate. Definitely not as much peak horsepower on tap, but always in that wide powerband. And constantly rewarding the driver with its quick responses to your inputs.

The transmission is possibly the weak link here. Saleen uses the standard Ford 5-speed manual, albeit with a nifty PJ billet short-throw shifter. Reassuringly firm, but a bit sloppy at times. Traction control is standard and helpful, rather than intrusive. You can spin the tires a bit before it intervenes, or shut it off and wait an extra tick or two before the tires hook up and launch you down the road. It makes for a very satisfying driving experience. Overall, this has to be one of the best naturally aspirated powerplants we've sampled. Easily feels as strong and nearly as smooth as a friend's 360 Modena or the V8s in the Aston Martin Vantage or Audi RS4. It might seem heresy to even dare compare a lowly Mustang to these European heavyweights, but this Saleen Boss 302 really is that good.

Suspension
Watts linkage. Remember those two words. That's what takes this Mustang from acceptable to damn near perfect. As much as we liked that sweet-sounding, rev-happy motor, the suspension is what really convinced us this was the Mustang to have. The Parnelli still uses a solid-beam rear axle, but two Saleen-developed Watts links are added in place of the stock Panhard rods on each side. This allows Saleen to use PJ-specific RaceCraft Suspension pieces like a thicker anti-roll bar and stiffer springs, bushings and shocks all around.

For a car built to honor a Trans-Am racing legend, the PJ definitely feels likes it's game for some hot lapping. Sadly we didn't get any track time, but we still managed to drive it over a variety of winding roads and just kept loving it more and more. Those Pirelli PZero-wrapped 19-inch alloys did a fantastic job keeping the car planted and gripping the pavement. And the upgraded disc brakes (14-inch slotted, vented up front, 11.8-inch vented out back) were strong and held up well to repeated hard use. Great feedback through the pedal too.

While we griped that the previous Saleen Mustang we had was no canyon carver, this one practically begged to be taken to the twisties. The whole time we had it, we were impressed with the ride quality as well. That suspension provides a ride that is remarkably smooth for the level of grip available. Only the sharpest bumps produced a shudder inside. But nothing that felt like it would throw you off course mid-turn. If you can't tell by now, we really liked it. We couldn't keep out of the backroads, accumulating approximately 600 miles while we had the PJ at our disposal. Actually, we had two different PJs to review, including car number 1 of 500. Due to manufactrer scheduling conflicts, this happens sometimes.

Exterior
We already mentioned many of the bespoke styling touches that identify the Parnelli Jones Edition Mustang - The Minilite-like rims, the Grabber Orange paint, black stripes, Shaker hood, spoilers front and rear, and the louvers. What we didn't mention was how well the package works as a whole. It takes the retro styling of this generation Mustang to a whole new level. We had the privilege of seeing PJ Mustangs, old and new, nose-to-tail in Las Vegas during SEMA, and we think the new one stacks up pretty nicely. The details that make this one resemble that Trans-Am racer from 1970 really seem to work for everybody who sees it too. As much attention as the S281 SC drew, this one topped that by a good margin. Guys seemed to recognize the old-school racer in it, while the ladies just wanted to be near it. It has a very magnetic personality. The tail, in particular, drew a lot of admirers. The louvers? The spoiler? The clean tail with the chrome surrounded taillights? We'd say the whole package. It just looks tight, and oh so right. As an example, check out the fuel filler door. Might sound corny, but it is one quality piece of work. Seriously. If you ever happen to be close to a PJ, try the door.

The car just clicks and does it in an oddly understated way. Hard to justify that statement when it's bright orange (and wearing a huge #15 meatball and Parnelli's name above the door), but true. You can still see the clean lines of the Mustang in all that. It doesn't scream aftermarket. Sort of like a track-prepped version of the street car, which is basically what it is. A quick note about the number and name – those are reusable vinyl decals so you can unleash your inner extrovert at will. And for those who know they won't pass for Parnelli Jones, they can opt to put Steve Saleen's name in that place of distinction.

But why wouldn't you want to keep Parnelli's name on it? Along with Dan Gurney, Mario Andretti, A.J. Foyt and Carroll Shelby, PJ helped define the multi-disciplined American auto racer in the golden days of racing. He won the Indy 500 in 1963, the Baja 1000 twice in his "Big Oly" Bronco (which makes a cameo along with Jones himself in the original "Gone in 60 Seconds"), his class at Pikes Peak in 1963 driving a Mercury stock car, and various sprint car titles, USAC championships, and of course, the 1970 Trans-Am championship in his Bud Moore Boss 302. He also went on to be a successful team owner and tire dealer in Southern California.

















Interior
The interior of the Parnelli Jones is going to be familiar to anyone who has sat in a Mustang. The requisite PJ badging and unique logos abound, but much remains the same. A few changes worth noting are the orange insert sport seats, the dual autographed dash, the unique gauges, and shifter, and the auxiliary gauge pod on top of the dash. Once you get past the orange, it's actually quite comfortable and tasteful. Really not a lot to say about it other than that. Oh, one nit to pick here. There was an isolated instance at some impossibly illegal speed where the driver's side window wanted to suck out of its track. To be fair that was on the high-test-mileage number 1 car after it had spent the weekend at a Saleen track event. The other car exhibited no such shenanigans, despite our attempt to duplicate the problem.

Conclusions
Do we really have to say it? This is one fantastic ride, even at $60,000. Sure there are a handful of more focused (and similarly priced) sports cars that can beat this Mustang on a track, but the unique look, back seat, trunk and, most of all, balance of this car make it a winner as a daily driver too. Add to that the limited edition nature of this model and the price makes a lot more sense.

If we were shopping in that price range, we'd definitely put this on the short list. It stacks up well against the competition and as an investment quality Mustang, it's a no-brainer. But it might be a moot point before long anyhow. Saleen tells us that half of the 500 PJ Editions have already been spoken for. And we're sure the rest won't be around much longer.

While we didn't get to take it to a track, some impromptu street encounters proved it has some serious stones. It's just as quick as a C6 Corvette from a stop. It can also keep up with an Elise in the canyons. Weighing in at 3550 pounds, that 400 hp should be good for a 0-60 of 4.5 or so and a quarter in the low 13s. Easily believable with some informal stopwatch runs. This car loves to run and rewards drivers who want a fun driving experience with few compromises. Yes, there are a few compromises.

One is that mileage plummets the more fun you have. Although overall we got about 15 mpg, we frequently saw single digit readings on the trip computer. Cruising on the freeway we were able to register 20 mpg though, so being judicious with the right foot will pay off at the pump.

The handling and braking were great, especially compared to the S281 we sampled. The word balance keeps coming to mind. The Watts links really make a huge difference in giving the driver the confidence it takes to truly take on the canyons. It begs to be driven harder, which is very endearing. The steering was nicely weighted and the pedals and other controls gave great feedback so you knew what was happening at all times too. It all adds up to a winner in our book.

Source: autoblog.com

Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera

PRESS RELEASE
Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy -With the Gallardo Superleggera, Automobili Lamborghini presents an uncompromisingly high-performance sports car. Thanks to increased power (an additional 10 hp) and a 100 kg reduction in weight (USA 70 kg), the new range-leading Gallardo Superleggera is even more dynamic than the already very sporty Gallardo. The weight/power ratio of the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera is only 2.5 kg/hp, which puts it unquestionably at the top.

The Superleggera also has the fastest acceleration in its class. It needs only 3.8 seconds to go from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph); 0.2 seconds less than the basic model, and boasting speed and grit under other driving conditions.
The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera is an extremely high-performance car: it includes a standard robotized mechanical 'e-gear' gearbox that guarantees shifting without removing hands from the steering wheel. The new Gallardo Superleggera can be ordered through the dealer network starting March 2007: production volumes will be restricted to lower numbers than the standard Gallardo.

More power thanks to technological developments
The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera's engine is the latest version of Lamborghini's well-known 4,961 cm3 V10. Now 530 hp is reached in 8,000 min-1. The increase in power was made possible by the engine's improved volumetric efficiency through reduced intake load losses and by exhaust backpressures, together with optimized electronic control. Naturally, emission levels observe the strict EURO 4 and LEV II standards.

Higher power thanks to lighter construction
Lamborghini engineers decreased the Lamborghini Gallardo's already low weight when empty (1,430 kg) by another 100 kg using advanced materials and technologies. The engine hood is made of visible carbon fiber and transparent polycarbonate, a type of material that guarantees lightness and also shows off the magnificent V10. The rear diffuser and underbody covering, the rearview mirrors, door panels and the central tunnel's covering are also made of carbon fiber. Further reductions in weight were achieved by replacing certain glass surfaces with transparent polycarbonate. For the interior, monocoque carbon fiber sports seats covered in Alcantara® were chosen to ensure restraint of the driver and passenger during the intense lateral accelerations that the Gallardo Superleggera is capable of achieving around curves.

Exclusive specification and options range
A comprehensive specification and extensive range of options will be available, with some exclusive to the Superleggera. The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera comes with robotized mechanical e-gear as standard; a sports package including shock absorbers; and special suede-covered steering wheel. The car is available in four colors: Midas Yellow, Borealis Orange, Telesto Gray and Noctis Black. Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires (standard) on new Scorpius forged rims accentuate the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera. A few of the options that can be requested include the multimedia system with navigator and CD-changer; a rear video camera to make parking easier (with optional rear wing only); a Carbon accessories kit for the interior; a fixed rear spoiler; a four-point seatbelt (not for USA); tubular rear frame or fitting points for later inclusion (not for USA, Japan or Middle East); and carbon-ceramic brakes.

Fiat Grande Punto Abarth Preview

Before Abarth was the inhouse tuning and racing division of Fiat, it was an independant automaker and racing team. Fiat purchased the company in 1971 and, if our research proves sound, the last Abarth model by Fiat was the 1984 Ritmo 130 TC Abarth. The rebirth of the Abarth name and a new "Scorpion" logo will be spearheaded by this car, the Grande Punto Abarth Preview, a production version of which will go on sale in September. The show car that will be unveiled in Geneva features a turbocharged 1.4L petrol engine producing 150 bhp, which is 50bhp less than what we originally thought. At some point later, however, an even more powerful version with 180bhp, twice as much as the base Grande Punto, will be released.
No word on pricing or any deeper details than we've already discussed are available, so you'll have to wait until we touch down in Geneva to learn more. Also on the stand with this car will be the Grande Punto Abarth S2000, a racing version of the production model that will be entered in the 2007 Italian Rally Championship and the Intercontinental Rallye Challenge. It's powered by a much more potent 2.0L engine producing 270bhp and driving all four wheels.

Source: Fiat

2008 VW Golf Variant

Volkswagen has just launched the new wagon version of its popular Golf hatch, which picks up the Golf Estate Variant title in following with previous generation models of the Estate. Measuring an extra 36cm over the regular Golf, the Estate Variant offers up to 690L of storage space with five passengers on board. Fold down the rear seats and you’re looking at a load space of 1550L.

Unique exterior features include the new tail lamps that wrap around the sides of the rear fenders as well as the tail gate. The Golf Estate Variant will initially be launched with two gasoline and two diesel engines, which includes a 1.4L 140hp (103kW) “Twincharger” TFSI model. The diesel engines produce 105hp (77kW) and 140hp (103kW), with mileage rates of just 5.2L/km and 5.6L/km respectively.

The car will be unveiled for the first time at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, with sales scheduled to start by mid this year.

motorauthority.com

Lamborghini SPIGA concept

While we had few problems with how Lamborghini's Gallardo looked, 22-year-old Urgur Sahin apparently thought it needed improving. Several hours of 3D modeling produced Sahin's Lamborghini Spiga Concept. While many CGI improvement projects go overboard and barely resemble the original vehicle, Sahin has taken the Gallardo and smoothed out its less than graceful rear cooling vents and has better integrated the fender vents into the body lines. The greatest improvement, however, could be the rear bumper. Where blocky taillights originally matched shape and size with equally blocky vents, the Spiga utilizes a more curvaceous rear panel with Vanquish-style lamps. The Spiga's exhaust is reminiscent of recent Ford concepts that have almost hidden the pipes within chrome-ringed outlets. Check out the rear shot after the jump.
Spiga, according to Sahin's website, means spike in Italian (though Google translated it to mean "ear," go figure). The moniker refers to the new design's roof, which comes to a spike-like point. That part we can take or leave, but we're digging those Countach-style wheels.
Sahin's website has even more high-res photos of his concept as well as additional samples from his 3D modeling portfolio.

CarBodyDesign

Lamborghini factory tour forbidden pictures

Started off near Modena, in Sant'Agata Bolognese, at the home of Lamborghini. Lamborghini's new HQ and remodeled assembly facility is a modern marvel of glass, aluminum, steel, and high-tech hardware. So are its cars. Automation, modernity, and efficiency abound on the current Lamborghini assembly lines.

Photos of the production floor are strictly forbidden

bcsportbikes.com

Chrysler Sebring Cabrio European Premiere at Geneva

• Chrysler Sebring Cabrio available outside North America in left-hand and right-hand drive, with both petrol and diesel engines
• Three automatically latching tops, including a retractable steel hard top, can drop with the press of a button on the key fob — a Sebring “first”
• Spacious interior makes comfortable room for four adults; exceptional cargo room easily fits four golf bags, or two golf bags when top is dropped
• Cutting-edge MyGIG™ multimedia infotainment system is one of several customer-friendly features
  

The Chrysler brand is “raising the roof” on the cabriolet segment with the European premiere of the all-new Chrysler Sebring Cabrio at the 77th International Motor Show in Geneva. This completely redesigned Sebring Cabrio is built on the Chrysler Group’s new D-segment platform and offers what no other cabrio on the road can offer: Chrysler’s sleek and elegant design, three convertible top options, and a spacious interior that comfortably sits four adults and offers enough room in the boot to hold two golf bags when the top is dropped.
For the first time, the all-new Chrysler Sebring Cabrio will be available with both petrol and diesel engine options, and in both left-hand and right-hand drive. The new Sebring Cabrio also offers what no other cabrio has offered before: three automatically latching convertible top options. Sebring Cabrio offers a vinyl top, a cloth top and a body-colour painted steel retractable hard top — all of which can be retracted with a push of a button on the key fob, a feature that only Sebring currently offers in its competitive set. Top that with a standard powered hard tonneau cover on all models and, top up or down, Sebring Cabrio provides the benefits of the saloon and the true open-air freedom of a cabrio, all at great value for money.

Chrysler designers looked to the future and the past when seeking inspiration for the Chrysler Sebring Cabrio. From the original sketches to the production vehicle, the all-new cabrio was designed to provide a familial tie to its new Sebring Sedan sibling, and the resemblance is unmistakable. Beyond that, the cabrio stretches the look with a longer body to create usable space in the trunk when the convertible top is stowed.
From the front view, the new Chrysler Sebring Cabrio shares many characteristics with its saloon sibling, including the distinctive face of Chrysler, the brand’s signature eggcrate grille and a uniquely sculptured bonnet that features the Chrysler brand’s elegant lines. The Chrysler winged badge is centred at the top of the grille just below the leading edge of the bonnet. Large quad headlamps wrap around to the side of the vehicle, where the all-new Sebring Cabrio’s profile takes on a shape all its own.
The all-new Chrysler Sebring Cabrio’s wheelbase is 73 millimetres (2.9 inches) longer, and the car is 84 millimetres (3.3 inches) taller and 23 millimetres (0.9 inches) wider than the vehicle it replaces. Its overall length is 72 millimetres (2.8 inches) longer than the saloon, which lengthens the side profile and provides enough cargo room in the boot to hold two golf bags when the roof is retracted. Sebring Cabrio’s profile is defined by a long bonnet, a long roofline and a high chrome beltline, all of which give the vehicle a nicely proportioned, elegant greenhouse with the top up. Designers also minimised the width of the C-pillar, improving the cabrio’s sleek side profile and increasing rearward visibility when the convertible top is up. Sculpted character lines run across the body, underneath the door handles and across the lower bodyside, producing the Sebring Cabrio’s athletic stance.
From the rear, wide taillamps are mounted on the corners and boot lid for visibility and visual impact. Rear fog lamps mounted in the reversing lamps help maintain a uniform appearance among models sold around the world.

Interior Craftsmanship
The all-new Chrysler Sebring Cabrio’s interior features a modern, clean design with intense focus on quality, detail, craftsmanship and execution. Soft surfaces on interior touch points, including the instrument panel cover and door arm rests, complement the cabrio’s interior design theme.
Inspired by the Chrysler winged badge, the cabrio’s centre stack features a Chrysler signature analogue clock, which is surrounded by dual heating and air conditioning vents. Chrysler Sebring Cabrio’s instrument panel also includes a locking glove box that can secure important documents and small items. The centre floor console features dual storage bins and a sliding armrest that can be moved 76 millimetres (3 inches) to provide a comfortable position for all drivers.
As many as four occupants can experience the new Chrysler Sebring Cabrio’s comfortable, roomy interior. Occupants sit 64 millimetres (2.5 inches) higher than they did in the previous Sebring Cabrio model, giving them a command-of-the-road seating position. Rear seat passengers also have plenty of leg room and head room, making this a functional cabrio that can be enjoyed year round in all seasons.
All Chrysler Sebring Cabrio models feature a two-tone interior theme with dark and lighter shades of Khaki or Gray on the dashboard top, instrument panel and door trim. The Sebring Cabrio Limited model also features an exclusive Cream and Pebble Beige interior with leather seats. Interior accents include Satin Silver and chrome on the Touring model and Satin Silver, chrome and Tortoise Shell on the Limited model.

Thoughtful Attention to Details
The Chrysler Sebring Cabrio’s development team paid keen attention to details, finding ways to make life easier for the driver and passengers, while creating a clean design that is user-friendly. The result is a new Sebring Cabrio that delivers many standard innovative and thoughtful features that will both surprise and delight the driver and passenger, including:

• A boot spacious enough to hold four golf bags when the convertible top is up and two golf bags when the convertible top is down
• Available remote convertible top operation on the key fob
• No manual convertible top latches, as Sebring’s new convertible top system automatically latches
• Standard powered hard tonneau cover that neatly conceals each of the three convertible tops when retracted
• Seat belts integrated into the front and rear seats, which looks clean, enhances occupant comfort and makes it easier for passengers to get into the back seat
• Easy-entry rear seat, as the front passenger seat features slide and memory recline position YES Essentials® stain-resistant, odour-resistant, anti-static seat fabric
• Available wind screen that fits behind the front seats to reduce wind buffeting and road noise
• Locking glove box that can secure important documents and small items, top up or down
• Available heated/cooled cup holder that keeps warm beverages warm and cold beverages cool
• Rear cup holders that are positioned in the rear quarter panels for easy access by rear-seat passengers
• Front passenger seat back that includes a map pocket for storage
• Doors that include map pockets

“The all-new Chrysler Sebring Cabrio brings not only thoughtful features, but also purposeful technology to customers at a good value,” said Stephane Labous, Director – International Marketing and Communications. “MyGIG is a great example. This system is meant for customers to interact and use the technology on a daily basis, to make their drive more enjoyable. The Chrysler brand is not about including technology just for technology’s sake.”
MyGIG is a cutting-edge multimedia infotainment system that raises the bar on in-vehicle communications. This next-generation navigation radio features a 16.5-centimetre (6.5-inch) Thin Film Transistor (TFT) display with a touch-screen panel that can support 65,000 colours. The system provides a two- or three-dimensional appearance to graphics and animation, as well as multiple font sizes and styles. The system provides real-time traffic updates and incorporates many new features for music, sound, movies and personalised picture displays, including:

• A 20-gigabyte hard disc drive for storing map data for the navigation system and photos
• Universal Serial Bus (USB) port that allows for the transfer of photos onto the hard drive
• Voice memo recording, which allows a message up to three minutes long to be recorded using the microphone integrated into the rear-view mirror Display screen that can display movies when the vehicle is in Park
• Capability to support three simultaneous audio output sources
• UConnect® Hands-free Communication System, available as an after-sales accessory, that uses Bluetooth® technology to provide voice-activated wireless communication between the occupants’ compatible mobile phone and the vehicle’s onboard receiver
• Functionality in six languages (Dutch, English, French, German, Italian and Spanish)

Athletic Performance With Excellent Fuel Efficiency

The Chrysler Sebring Cabrio is available outside North America with two engine options: the standard 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine and optional 2.7-litre V-6 petrol engine.
For value- and performance-conscious consumers, the modern 2.0 CRD engine produces 103 kW (140 hp DIN) and 310 Nm (229 lb.-ft.) of torque, coupled with a six-speed manual transaxle. This diesel engine, a first for the Chrysler Group in the D-segment, delivers excellent overall performance and fuel economy.
The 2.7-litre V-6 petrol engine produces 138 kW (188 hp DIN) and 256 Nm (189 lb.-ft.) of torque, providing more low-end torque (at an rpm 850 lower) compared with the 2.7-litre engine it replaces. This engine, paired with a new six-speed automatic transaxle, will be available for Europe by the end of 2007.

Solid Structure Provides a Smooth Ride
The Chrysler Sebring Cabrio was engineered to have an extremely rigid body structure, which ensures it has a quiet, comfortable ride, devoid of cowl shake even when the top is down. Compared with the model it replaces, the new Sebring Cabrio’s body structure is substantially stiffer than its predecessor in bending and torsion — especially bending — due to very robust sills. In fact, its new front-wheel-drive architecture and the three-box vehicle design contribute to a body that is 2.5 times stiffer in twist (torsion) and 1.5 times stiffer in flex (bending) than the previous generation cabrio. These refinements also make the new Sebring Cabrio structure stiffer than many other cabrios on the market.

Full Package of Safety Features
The all-new Chrysler Sebring Cabrio also offers a unique combination of safety features that are designed to keep occupants both safe and secure, top up or down. For example, a new integrated seat-belt system mounts all seat belts on the seats, making them more comfortable for the driver and passengers, as well as making it much easier for passengers to get in and out of the rear seat.
Chrysler Sebring Cabrio’s bodyshell safety cage is constructed with dual-phase, high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel components designed to protect occupants in all driving situations. Side-guard door beams help protect occupants in side impacts. Sebring Cabrio’s extremely strong safety cage is complemented with standard advanced multi-stage front air bags and standard front-seat-mounted side air bags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution are standard on all Sebring Cabrio models, together with Traction Control System and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP).

Chrysler Sebring Cabrio Production
Production of the new Chrysler Sebring Cabrio began in the first quarter of 2007 at the newly refurbished Sterling Heights (Michigan) Assembly Plant in the U.S. Sebring Cabrio’s new 2.7-litre V-6 petrol engine is built at the Kenosha (Wisconsin) Engine Plant.

PRELIMINARY TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
The information shown is based on data available at the time of publication (Feb. 20, 2007) and is subject to change without notice. Specifications are valid for Europe and may vary in other markets. General Information Body Style: Two-door cabriolet Assembly Plant: Sterling Heights, Mich., USA

Engines

2.0-litre Turbo Diesel Engine

• Availability: Standard on all models (Europe)
• Type and Description: Four cylinders in line, turbocharged
• Displacement: 2.0 litres (1969cc / 120.1 cu. in.)
• Bore x Stroke: 81 x 95.5mm (3.19 x 3.76 in.)
• Compression Ratio: 18.1:1
• Maximum Power: 103 kW (140 hp DIN) @ 4000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 310 Nm (229 lb.-ft.) @ 1750 rpm
• Emission Class: Euro 4

2.7-litre V-6 Petrol Engine

• Availability: Optional on all models (standard in Middle East)
• Type and Description: Six cylinders 60-degree, liquid-cooled, dual-tuned intake manifold with electronically controlled manifold tuning valve
• Displacement: 2.7 litres (2736cc / 167 cu. in.)
• Bore x Stroke: 86 x 78.5mm (3.39 x 3.09 in.)
• Compression Ratio: 9.9:1
• Maximum Power: 138 kW (188 hp DIN) @ 6500 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 256 Nm (189 lb.-ft.) @ 4000 rpm
• Emission Class: Euro 4

Transaxles

Six-speed Manual

Availability:Standard with 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine

Description: Aisin BG6: Six-speed, overdrive, synchronised in all ratios, cable-operated, four-plane shifter with reverse lockout ring

Six-speed

Automatic Availability: Standard with 2.7-litre petrol engine (Europe)

Description: 62TE: Six-speed, overdrive, adaptive electronic control or Auto Stick driver-interactive manual control, electronically modulated torque converter clutch

Four-speed Automatic

Availability :Standard with 2.7-litre petrol engine (Middle East)

Description: VLP 41TE: Four-speed, overdrive, VLP adaptive electronic control, electronically modulated converter clutch

Drivetrain

Front-wheel Drive: Standard with all engines

Chassis and Running Gear

• Front Suspension: Independent MacPherson strut, coil spring over gas-charged shock absorbers, stabiliser bar with isolated suspension cradle
• Rear Suspension: Multi-link independent with coil springs, link-type stabiliser bar, gas-charged shock absorbers and isolated rear suspension cradle
• Steering Type: Speed-proportional, power rack-and-pinion
• Wheels and Tyres (standard fit): Touring: 17 x 6.5 in. with P215/60R17 three-season performance tyres
• Limited: 18 x 7 in. with P215/55R18 three-season performance tyres
• Brakes: Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, EBD, TCS, ESP

Dimensions and Accommodations

Dimensions are in millimetres (inches) unless otherwise noted.

• Overall Length: 4922 (193.8)
• Overall Width: 1815 (71.5) without mirrors
• Overall Height: 1485 (58.5)
• Wheelbase: 2765 (108.9)
• Track, Front: 1570 (61.8)
• Track, Rear: 1570 (61.8)
• Seating Capacity: Two front, two rear
• Cargo Compartment Volume: 320 litres (11.3 cu. ft.), SAE standard

DaimlerChrysler AG

Mazda AZ-Wagon

Mazda's new AZ-Wagon series combines bold exterior design with a high quality interior styled in black

Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the addition of the new Custom Style series to the Mazda AZ-Wagon micro-mini range. Sales commence today at all Mazda Autozam, Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan.
The Custom Style series unites the excellent packaging and functionality of current AZ Wagons with brazen and stylish exterior design and a high quality interior finished with a black motif.
The two grades offered are the Custom Style DI, with a direct injection (DI) turbo-charged engine, and the Custom Style X, with a variable valve timing (VVT) engine. Manufacturer's suggested retail prices range from 1,197,000 to 1,608,600 yen, including consumption tax. The target sales volume for the entire AZ-Wagon range is 2,200 units a month.

Main features of the AZ-Wagon Custom Style seriesA bolder, stylish exterior

• A premium quality chrome grille with xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlights set in a row on both sides gives the front fascia a distinct presence. Additionally, an exclusively-designed bonnet and a front wraparound bumper have been added to create a bolder appearance.
• Clear combination taillights help the rear styling stand out on the Custom Style models.
• Exclusively designed 14-inch alloy wheels.
• Turn indicator lights affixed to the door mirror covers (exclusive to the Custom Style DI).
• The deep purple body color, Mysterious Violet Pearl, is available for the first time. Pearl White, Silky Silver Metallic, Bluish Black Pearl 3 and Azure Grey Pearl Metallic complete the choice of five body colors that accentuate the attractive styling.

High quality interior with a black motif

• Exclusive black fabric on the seats and door trim produces an interior with a high quality feel.
• Light reflecting particles within the sand black design create a glittering effect on the instrument panel center stack garnish and door armrests to enhance the AZ-Wagon's presence. The interior also features black metallic airvent bezel rings and meter dial bezel rings.
  

Superior comfort though enhanced features

• Advanced Keyless Entry & Start system is standard on all grades.
• The Custom Style DI model grade includes a high-grade sound system. The system features an exclusive audio tuning unit with a seven-speaker setup, comprised of front and rear door speakers, front tweeters and a sub-woofer, to create a stimulating audio environment inside the cabin space.
• Fully automatic air conditioning (with a catechin air filter) maintains a comfortable cabin temperature and comes as standard on all model grades.
• If the special body color Mysterious Violet Pearl or Pearl White is chosen, the price increases by 21,000 yen (tax included).
• A separate recycling fee of 9,370 yen is necessary in addition to the manufacturer's suggested retail prices listed above (tax included).

Source: Mazda

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