Drive Line: sedan

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Wednesday, May 30, 2007

2009 SEAT sedan

SEAT TO EXPAND RANGE WITH NEW B-SEGMENT MODEL
SEAT's intention to continue its growth and offer 'auto emoción' in yet more market sectors has been demonstrated once again, with the announcement that it will produce two new models in the B-segment.
The B-segment, still one of Western Europe's largest market sectors with annual sales last year of 1,147,200 (source: AID), includes competitors such as the Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 407 and Toyota Avensis. SEAT S.A. President Erich Schmitt has confirmed that the company will enter into this market in 2009 with two variants: a saloon and an estate.
As with all SEAT models (with the exception of the seven-seat Alhambra, which is manufactured in Portugal), the new models will be built at the Spanish firm's ultra-modern Martorell plant, located close to Barcelona. The company also has a substantial research and development facility at this location – the Martorell Technical Centre – employing around 1,250 highly qualified staff. No other car manufacturer based in Spain has the capacity to design, develop and produce its own vehicles in the country.
Commenting to Spanish media representatives in Martorell, at the announcement of the new models, Erich Schmitt said: 'The assignment of these two new models to the plant in Martorell is an historic step for SEAT. By these means, we enlarge our current product range, which not only gives our clients the possibility to grow with the brand, but also enables us to increase the profitability of our dealer network thanks to the availability of these new models.'

source: SEAT

• SEAT Altea Freetrack
• SEAT Altea Freetrack Concept at the Geneva Motor Show
• SEAT Altea Freetrack concept

Monday, May 7, 2007

2008 Cadillac STS

PRESS RELEASE:
Enhanced 2008 Cadillac STS Delivers Signature Styling And Advanced Performance Technology
DETROIT - The 2008 Cadillac STS debuts next month with a new, 302-horsepower engine with direct injection technology that improves fuel economy and reduces emissions. In addition, Cadillac's luxury performance sedan also showcases enhanced signature styling and the addition of leading-edge safety technology.
"For the past two decades, the Cadillac STS has been a showcase of luxury, performance and technology," says Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "The enhanced 2008 model extends that with bolder design, more standard power, better fuel efficiency, improved emissions and new safety technology."

New direct injection V-6 debuts
For 2008, STS will be the first GM vehicle equipped with a new 3.6L direct injection V-6 engine. Direct Injection, an advanced system for more precise and productive fuel delivery, enables the rare achievement of simultaneous gains in power, fuel efficiency and emissions performance.
The new standard engine for STS delivers a SAE-certified 302 horsepower (225 kW) at 6300 rpm,* 47 more horsepower (35 kW) than the previous 3.6-liter V-6. Torque is also increased to 272 lb.-ft. (366 Nm) at 5200 rpm,* an upgrade of 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm). At the same time, the engine is expected to deliver improved fuel efficiency. Official EPA fuel economy statistics for the 2008 model have not yet been announced. On the outgoing 2007 model STS, EPA fuel economy is 18 mpg city and 27 mpg hwy.
Additionally, direct injection's more efficient operation enables a 25-percent reduction in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.
Coupled to the new V-6 engine will be the 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission, introduced last year on Northstar V-8 models, which has a generous 6.04:1 overall ratio that enables a steep first-gear that helps deliver strong launch acceleration. The STS V-6 continues to be available with all-wheel drive for 2008.

New technology
Continuing Cadillac's commitment to the advancement of safety and performance attributes, the 2008 STS includes new systems and advanced technologies to enhance driver awareness and control.
For the first time, Cadillac's acclaimed StabiliTrak electronic stability control system now includes the optional addition of active steering technology. In addition to controlling brakes and reducing engine power, the latest iteration of StabiliTrak combines active front steering to turn the front wheels into the skid when rear wheels lose traction. The system includes a new steering motor assembly combined with computer-driven electronic controls that measure wheel slippage at all four wheels independently during acceleration, braking and adverse road conditions.
Active steering will be available exclusively on all-wheel-drive V-8 models.
GM's Lane Departure Warning System also debuts on the 2008 STS. Controlled by a camera located in the rearview mirror that reads the lines in the road, the system will alert drivers when they have strayed into another lane. Drivers get both an audible and visual alert cue.
When the Lane Departure Warning System is engaged, a driver traveling at 35 mph or more who crosses a detected lane marking without signaling is alerted in two ways: The system flashes an amber indicator light located in the fuel gauge of the instrument panel, and an alerting chime of three beeps is played. The system does not steer the vehicle; it is designed only to alert drivers so they can take appropriate action to move the vehicle back into the lane.
GM's Side Blind Zone Alert System extends and enhances driver awareness and vision. Alternating radar beams in Side Blind Zone Alert System sweep adjacent lanes of traffic, covering a zone of about one lane over from both sides of the vehicle, or 11 feet (3.5 m). The zone starts at each side mirror and goes back about 16 feet (5 m).
When the system is engaged, a driver will know that following vehicles in the adjacent lanes are entering their side blind zone when an amber symbol, located in the outside rearview mirror, is illuminated.
The system is not designed to detect vehicles outside of the side blind zone that may be rapidly approaching, or detect pedestrians, bicyclists or animals. It's designed to ignore infrastructure such as fire hydrants or parked cars. In addition, the system displays do not come on while the vehicle is approaching or passing other vehicles.
The Lane Departure Warning and Side Blind Zone Alert systems can be manually turned off by the driver.
A new performance handling package will be available for V-8-equipped rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive models and V-6-equipped rear-drive models. The package includes 18-inch x 8.5-inch aluminum alloy, chrome-plated wheels fitted with new P255/45R18 Michelin Pilot Sport summer-only tires.
Four-piston caliper Brembo brakes, with front rotors measuring 355 mm x 32 mm and 365 mm x 28 mm rear rotors, provide enhanced baking. All four rotors are vented.

A bolder new look, inside and out
The new STS injects more of the bold design flair that has become a Cadillac signature. Up front, the dual-textured, multi-faceted grille - first seen on the landmark Cadillac Sixteen concept car and incorporated on both the Escalade and soon-to-be-launched CTS - has been adapted to the STS.
High Intensity Discharge lamps and the Intellibeam automatic high-beam system are added for the first time for V-6 models. The lower front fascia features a new intake and grille pattern evoking Cadillac's V-Series high-performance models.
Similarly, side air extractors, again inspired by the Sixteen and Escalade, are now incorporated into the front fenders of STS. New chrome-plated door handles and lower rocker moldings are added for more presence and refinement. At the rear, the new fascia is now body color and is highlighted with polished aluminum three-inch exhaust tips. New, polished 18-inch x 8-inch aluminum 14-spoke wheels are available.
The luxurious interior of the STS includes a new steering wheel with available genuine Sapele Pommele wood trim. The center stack of the instrument panel is revised with the addition of wood and metallic trim.
The 2008 Cadillac STS begins production this spring, with initial availability beginning in June. *SAE certified.
Source: GM

Related Posts
• Cadillac unveils new 2.9L V6 diesel for CTS
• Limousine of US President
• Cadillac BLS Wagon for Europe
• 2008 Cadillac STS

Saturday, May 5, 2007

2008 BMW 5-series now available

2008 BMW 5-Series Sedan

2008 BMW 5-Series Wagon
BMW 5 SERIES FOR 2008:
The most powerful 6-cylinder Sedans and Sports Wagon yet headline a thoroughly revised 5 Series
Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, May 1, 2007... Building on last year's updates, BMW's 2008 5 Series Sedans and Sport Wagon receive another significant freshening and, in the case of 6-cylinder models, a major boost in power and efficiency. Complementing the power increase, a thoroughly revised interior, new technological features and a freshened look front and rear ensure this benchmark collection of rear and all-wheel-drive Sedans and Sports Wagon will maintain their place at the forefront of the mid-size luxury class.
These early release 2008 5 Series models represent the most significant update since their introduction in 2003. Adopting the new engines introduced in the 3 Series Coupe, the 6-cylinder Sedans and Sport Wagon receive new model designations, reflecting a marked boost in power. Last year's 525i and 525xi both get the new, 230-horsepower iteration of BMW's remarkable aluminum/magnesium composite N52 engine, along with new 528i and 528xi nomenclature. Similarly, the 530i and 530xi become the 535i and 535xi, the new designations signifying the addition of BMW's latest, 300-horsepower N54 twin-turbo inline-6. Included in this upgrade is the 2008 535xi Sports Wagon, its 300-horsepower eclipsing the old 290-hp V-8 540i and making it the most powerful Sports Wagon BMW has ever offered in the U.S. While the current 550i retains its 360-horsepower 4.8-liter V-8, the mid-size flagship receives a new Sport Package with 19-inch wheels and new body treatments, along with the updated interior and exterior freshening.
In addition to the horsepower boost, new performance features include a quicker-shifting Sport Automatic transmission for the rear-drive 535i and 550i Sedans, which also provides fingertip shift control via steering-wheel-mounted paddles. This is in addition to the new, updated STEPTRONIC that is now a no-cost option on all 5 Series models. New Sport Package contents bring 18-inch wheels and run-flat performance tires to all 6-cylinder models, including staggered-width 18-inch tires on the rear-drive 535i Sedan. The same 18-inch wheel and tire option is also available on Sport Package-equipped 535xi models as a further extra-cost addition.
New technological features also make their appearance for '08. First among these is BMW's Lane Departure Warning system, a camera-based system that monitors lane placement, and discreetly notifies the driver via mild steering wheel vibration of any motions that might indicate an inadvertent lane change. The convenience of Active Cruise Control is extended via a new Stop and Go feature, which enables the system to function even in heavy traffic. Active Cruise allows the vehicle to come to a complete stop without losing its setting, then accelerate back up to set speed with only a touch of the accelerator pedal from the driver. Audio options expand with a USB Adapter for an iPod or MP3 player. And BMW's leading-edge iDrive system adds a row of programmable "favorites" buttons, which can be used for anything from radio-station presets to pre-programmed destinations with the optional navigation system.
As in the past, all BMW automobiles and SAVs include BMW Ultimate Service, which includes 4 year, unlimited mileage Roadside Assistance, 4 year / 50,000 mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty and BMW Maintenance Program at no extra cost. In addition, all 5 Series BMWs also include a 4 year membership in BMW Assist Safety Services as standard equipment.
With all these changes for 2008, BMW's 5 Series again reasserts itself as the class leader in the midsize performance-luxury field.

What's new for 2008
As of 3/07 production (Sedans and Sports Wagon):
• 528i Sedan (new designation)
• 528xi Sedan (new designation)
• 535i Sedan (new designation)
• 535xi Sedan (new designation)
• 535xi Sports Wagon (new designation)
• 550i Sedan (existing model)

2008 BMW 5 SERIES
Product Highlights
General
• Essentially all-new platform introduced in '04; Valvetronic 6-cylinder engines, larger V-8 engine, all-wheel-drive Sedans and Sports Wagon added in '06. 2008 models substantially updated with mild facelift, revised interior and major powertrain changes for 6-cylinder models
• '08 models began production in March '07; early release in May 2007; produced in Germany
• Six models offered; five 6-cylinder models and one V-8 model:
• 528i Sedan, with 3.0-liter N52 inline 6-cylinder engine (230 hp)
• 528xi Sedan, same engine as 528i but with xDrive all-wheel drive
• 535i Sedan, with N54 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline 6-cylinder engine (300 hp)
• 535xi Sedan, same engine as 535i but with xDrive all-wheel drive
• 535xi Sports Wagon, same engine as 535i/xi Sedans, xDrive, 5-door body and many specific Sports Wagon features
• 550i Sedan, with 4.8-liter V-8 (360 hp)
• All models available with 6-speed manual 1 or automatic transmission; 535i and 550i Sedans available with new 6-speed Sport Automatic at extra cost
• Base prices including $775 destination charge (all with a choice of manual or no-cost STEPTRONIC automatic transmission):
528i Sedan – $45,075
528xi Sedan – $47,275
535i Sedan – $50,175
535xi Sedan – $52,375
535xi Sports Wagon – $54,775
550i Sedan – $59,275
• 5 Series U.S. sales in calendar 2006 – 56,756 (Sedans and Sports Wagon; includes M5).

What's new for 2008
All models:
• New model facelift includes revised front fascia, new taillights, new rear air-diffuser (Sedan models) and redesigned interior with upgraded materials. All 6-cylinder Sedans and Sports Wagon receive significant power increases, comparable to 3 Series cars.
• Lane Departure Warning system boosts driver awareness by providing the driver an immediate warning about lane placement
• Active Cruise Control adds "Stop & Go" feature, which permits cruise-control operation even in heavy traffic
• Freshened interior provides an even more elegant look, with additional leather and extended wood trim.
• Ergonomic changes include more convenient window switches, relocated console ashtray and electronic shifter
• In addition, standard iDrive adds six programmable memory buttons, which can be used for anything from radio station presets to navigation destinations or auto-dial telephone numbers
• Premium Sound Package discontinued; Logic7 premium stereo available as stand-alone option. BMW center-installed 6-disc CD changer also available
All 5 Series Sedans
• Reconfigured optical headlight lenses
• New front airdam has reshaped opening with upturned ends
• Relocated amber DOT lenses; headlight area is completely white
• Taillights include new white design with fewer reflectors, plus red lines in the optical lenses
• Reshaped rear bumper, with revised diffuser below the bumper
535xi Sports Wagon
• New front-end treatment includes revised headlights, front fascia and relocated DOT lenses.
• New rear-end treatment includes reconfigured taillights. Rear diffuser remains as before

Performance & efficiency
All 5 Series models:
• Technically updated STEPTRONIC includes faster shifting and more efficient operation for improved efficiency and quicker acceleration; now a no-cost option for 2008
• New electronic shifter, similar to that featured in the X5 SAV, offers "shift-by-wire" actuation and more ergonomic operation
• SMG no longer available
528i/xi Sedan only 230-hp N52 engine for all 528i/xi models:
• magnesium/aluminum composite construction
• Valvetronic and Double VANOS 2 valve actuation
• includes single-stage intake
• revised tuning provides 230 horsepower @ 6500 rpm, 200 lb-ft. of torque at 2750 rpm, an increase of 15 horsepower and 15 lb-ft. of torque over previous 525i.
• New optional wheels and tires. 528i Sport Package includes 18-inch wheels with performance run-flat tires; 18-inch wheels optional with Sport Package on 528xi
535i/xi Models
300-hp N54 for all 535i/xi models:
• all-aluminum construction w/cast-iron cylinder liners
• twin-turbocharger technology boosts horsepower with virtually no turbo-lag
• Direct fuel injection with piezo electric injectors
• Double VANOS 1 steplessly variable valve timing
• N54 engine rated at 300 horsepower @ 5800 rpm, 300 lb-ft. of torque at 1400-5000 rpm, an increase of 45 horsepower and an astonishing 80 lb-ft. of torque over previous 530i/xi, with a significantly broader torque band.
• Brake discs upgraded to 13.7 front and 13.6 rear, same size as 550i
535i Sedan
• New optional Sport Automatic transmission includes steering-wheel paddle shifters and rpm matching during downshifts, plus a Sport button for quicker, more dynamic shifting (beginning 06/07 production)
• Sport Package includes 18-inch wheel and tire sizes in staggered width; first time on 6-cylinder models

535xi Sedan
• 535xi Sport Package offers the additional option of 18-inch wheel and tire sizes in staggered width; first time on all-wheel-drive models
535xi Sports Wagon
• 300-hp N54 engine, same as 535i/xi Sedans. This engine makes the 535xi Sport Wagon the most powerful wagon BMW has ever offered, including the previous-generation (E39) V-8-powered 540i.
• 535xi Sport Wagon offers 18-inch wheels and tires as an upgrade with the Sport Package
550i Sedan
• New optional Sport Automatic includes steering-wheel paddle shifters and rpm matching during downshifts (beginning 06/07 production), plus a Sport button for quicker, more dynamic shifting
• Sport Package now includes 19-inch, staggered-width wheels with performance tires.

Ergonomics, luxury & convenience
• Thoroughly revised interior
• New standard steering wheel
• Window switches relocated to armrest
• Larger, more refined door pockets
• Smaller, leather-wrapped passenger door handle
• Wood trim now flows from the instrument panel into the door panel, giving a richer, warmer, more integrated look
• iDrive includes six programmable "favorites" buttons, which can be set to frequently used features including destination addresses, phone numbers or radio station presets
• Leather-wrapped center console with:
• New ashtray
• Leather-trimmed iDrive controller w/single menu button
• New center-console storage compartment
• New electronic shifter for STEPTRONIC automatic with ergonomically optimized contour, placement and function
• Radio buttons and temperature controls trimmed in titanium silver

Options
• Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go feature allows operation even in traffic, and can accommodate speeds all the way down to a complete stop, and resume to set speed from 0 mph
• Lane Departure Warning system, provides an immediate but discreet notification when the car crosses into another lane without turn signals
• USB adaptor for iPods or MP3 players, which does not use the CD changer connections
• Premium Sound Package discontinued; Logic7 premium stereo and 6-disc CD-changer available separately
• Sequential Manual Gearbox discontinued

Other highlights
All models
• BMW Ultimate Service, including BMW Maintenance Program, for 4 years/50,000 miles included in base price
• Standard 6-speed manual transmissions have self-adjusting clutch for long clutch life
• Aluminum suspension system for outstanding handling and riding comfort (528xi and 535xi models: aluminum rear suspension only)
• Aluminum front-end structure – contributes to weight reduction and optimum front/rear weight distribution
• Vehicle and Key Memory allows users to personalize many electronic comfort, convenience and security features
• Leather-covered 3-spoke power tilt/telescopic steering wheel with auto tilt-up for entry/exit, multi-function controls
• BMW Ambiance Lighting: LED lights in roof bathe console area in soft orange light, helping occupants find controls at night; enhanced lighting features included in Premium Package
• All models available with Sport Package and Cold Weather Package; all 6-cylinder models also available with Premium Package
• Wide range of stand-alone options includes Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go feature (automatic transmission only), Active Steering, Park Distance Control (standard 550i Sedan), alternate wood interior trim selections, 20-way front Multi-contour seats, split folding rear seats (Sedan models; standard Sports Wagon), heated rear seats, BMW On-board Navigation System, Head-up Display, Lane Departure Warning system, Night Vision, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, HD Radio, rear window- and/or rear door-window sunshades, rear-seat side-impact airbags
• 10-way power front seats standard in all models; 20-way Multi-contour seats in Sport Package or as a stand-alone option; 4-way power front-seat lumbar support with 528i/xi Premium Package, standard in 535i/xi models and 550i
• Memory system for driver's seat, steering wheel and exterior mirrors; 2 positions for each user (captured by Key Memory)
• 1-touch operation of all side windows and moonroof
• Body structure engineered for excellent occupant protection in full and offset frontal impacts, side impacts and rear impacts
• Front-seat safety belts with automatic tensioners and force limiters
• Front and rear Head Protection System (AHPS II) standard in all models
• Front-seat side-impact airbags standard in all models
• Rear-seat side-impact airbags optional in all models
• Battery Safety Terminal – after a severe impact, severs high-current connection between battery and starter cable to help prevent possible short circuit
• BMW Assist Safety Plan with 4 year membership standard equipment

2008 5 Series models
528i Sedan
• 3.0-liter N52 inline 6-cylinder engine
• 230 hp, 200 lb-ft. torque
• Preliminary EPA est. MPG (revised EPA rating standard): 17 mpg city/27 mpg highway (manual transmission) or 18/27 (automatic)
• No-cost choice of 6-speed manual transmission or STEPTRONIC automatic
• Sport Package wheels and tires are 18-in. with run-flat performance tires
535i Sedan – additional features over 528i Sedan
• 3.0-liter N54 twin-turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine
• 300 hp, 300 lb-ft. torque
• Preliminary EPA est. MPG (revised EPA rating standard): 17/26 (AT); (manual transmission available SOP 09/07)
• Optional Sport Automatic includes steering-wheel paddle shifters and rpm matching during downshifts, plus a Sport button for quicker, more dynamic shifting
• Sport Package wheels and tires are staggered width 18-in. with run-flat performance tires
• Standard Xenon Adaptive headlights
• Standard 4-way power lumbar support on front seats
528xi/535xi Sedans over 528i/535i Sedans
• xDrive – fulltime all-wheel drive system, electronically controlled with variable front/rear torque split and traction control
• Preliminary EPA est. MPG (revised EPA rating standard): 528xi Sedan – 17/25 (MT) or 17/25 (AT) 535xi Sedan – 17/25 (AT); (manual transmission available SOP 09/07)
• Manual transmission of all xi models is heavier-duty Getrag Type H; rear-wheel-drive 528i Sedan has Type I transmission
535xi Sports Wagon over 535xi Sedan
• Most-powerful BMW Sport Wagon ever offered
• 3.0-liter N54 twin-turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine
• 300 hp, 300 lb-ft. torque
• Preliminary EPA est. MPG (revised EPA rating standard): 16/24 (AT); (manual transmission available SOP 09/07)
• 5-door Wagon body
• Standard roof rails
• Dual-panel Panoramic Moonroof (Sedans have single-panel moonroof)
• Standard split folding rear seats
• Rear-window wiper/washer
• Split tailgate with separately opening rear window (power-operated tailgate with programmable lift height in Premium Package)
• Many special features for versatile cargo-carrying capabilities
550i Sedan over 535i Sedan
• 4.8-liter N62 TU (Technically Updated) V-8:
• 2-stage induction system
• Aluminum construction
• Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) per cylinder bank, 32 valves
• Valvetronic variable intake-valve lift
• Steplessly variable intake- and exhaust-valve timing
• Direct ignition system with knock control
• 360 hp, 360 lb-ft. torque
• Preliminary EPA est. MPG (revised EPA rating standard): 550i Sedan: 15/22 (MT), 15/23 (AT)
• New optional Sport Automatic includes steering-wheel paddle shifters and rpm matching during downshifts, plus a Sport button for quicker, more dynamic shifting
• Sport Package wheels and tires are staggered width 19-in. with performance tires
• Standard Park Distance Control, leather upholstery, Ambient Light Package, auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors and BMW Universal Transceiver.

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 Roadster and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 340 BMW passenger-car centers, 327 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 148 BMW motorcycle retailers, 80 MINI passenger-car dealers, and 25 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.