Cars GlobalMag February

CARS GLOBAL MAG

No. 4 / February 2013

EVERYTHING FROM THE DETROIT AUTO SHOW!

FORD Atlas Concept

FOCUS New Renault Clio

Read right away!

Oldest surviving Ford production car, a 1903 Model A has been unveiled to kick off the 150th anniversary celebration of Henry Ford’s birth.

Model A was the first product of Ford Motor Company, which launched June 16, 1903

Only one of the three Model A cars sold on July 13, 1903, remains and Executive Chairman Bill Ford recently purchased it at an auction.

Read more at pag. 62

Summary NEWS 2 AUTO Special Detroit Auto Show - VIDEO February news NEWS 24 GLOBAL News from around the world

36 FOCUS: New Renault CLIO OF THE MONTH 44 MISS Praga R1 Lexus LFA GREEN SIDE 56 THE Tesla Model S - VIDEO

62 CLASSIC The very first Ford 66 RACING Daytona 24 Hours - VIDEO NEWS 78 CORPORATE Industry & finance

Automotive app/magazine published by Doppiovù Press sas Lesmo (Italy) info@carsgm.com Monza (Italy) Court Registration nr. 17/2012 of the November 2nd 2012

Chief Editor Vittorio Gargiulo Editorial coordinator Niccolò Gargiulo Graphic design Diego Galbiati Powered by LabelA - Rotterdam (Netherlands) www.labela.nl

AUTO NEWS

The North American International Auto Show has been an annual event on the international car show calendar for 25 years now. As the traditional curtain-raiser to the automotive year, it will once again point the way for the car industry as a whole into 2013. Over 150 exhibitors from around the world came together at Detroit’s Cobo Center, showcasing more than 500 vehicles representing the most innovative designs in the world.

ACURA

NSX Concept The new Acura NSX Concept is based on the expected underpinnings of the vehicle Acura will bring to market.

Still, the new NSX Concept maintains its low and wide stance with the dynamic and alluring proportions that debuted in the original NSX Concept at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. The new NSX Concept also features a first-ever look at one potential direction for the next-generation Acura NSX interior design. The design concept is founded on a “Human Support Cockpit” theme, a strong expression of Acura’s product direction focused on “the synergy between man and machine.” The interior package boasts outstanding visibility, an exotic driving position, and an intuitive “Simple Sports Interface” that minimizes interior clutter, allowing the driver to focus on the driving experience.

With the aim of delivering a new sports car experience that combines next-generation supercar dynamic capabilities with advanced environmental performance, Acura announced a year ago that the Acura NSX will be powered by a mid-mounted, direct-injected V-6 engine mated to Acura’s Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system. Acura Sport Hybrid SH-AWD is an all-new, three-motor high-performance hybrid system that combines torque vectoring all-wheel drive with advanced hybrid efficiency through the use of three electric motors – one motor integrated with the V-6 engine and two motors driving the front wheels – along with an all-new dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The system enables instant delivery of negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering to achieve a new level of driving performance unparalleled by current AWD systems.

Acura also presented the 2014 MDX Prototype offering a strong indication of the styling and design direction for the third generation of the popular, 7-passenger Acura

MDX performance luxury SUV, launching by mid-2013 in both all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive layouts.

The “Aero Sculpture” styling of the 2014 MDX Prototype pursues the direction of a smart, compact and premium appearance with low, wide and sleek proportions.

This “aero” image also reflects significant gains in aerodynamic efficiency, up 16 percent compared to the outgoing 2013 MDX. In response to strong demand from consumers in warm weather markets Acura also will, for the first time, offer a front-wheel drive version of MDX in addition to the all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) model that has earned MDX a reputation as a leader in dynamic handling and all-weather performance for a luxury SUV. The 2014 MDX will also feature an all-new, more rigid and lightweight chassis, including new front and rear suspension designs that deliver a more refined, confidence-inspiring, and sporty driving character. An all-new, direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC SOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) will deliver improved torque and more spirited performance while realizing a significant increase in fuel efficiency. With the introduction of the all-new 2014 Acura MDX production will move from Alliston, Ontario, to the company’s vehicle and V-6 engine manufacturing facility in Lincoln, Alabama. Using domestic and globally sourced parts, the MDX is built exclusively in North America.

AUDI

RS 7 Sportback / SQ5

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The RS 7 Sportback, the large five-door coupe from Audi features the 4.0 TFSI engine, which takes Audi’s downsizing strategy to the high-end category.

The twin-turbo V8 displaces 3,993 cc and develops awesome power, with 412 kW (560 hp) available between 5,700 and 6,700 rpm. A constant 700 Nm (516.29 lb-ft) of torque are available between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm. The RS 7 Sportback sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 3.9 seconds. Audi limits the top speed in the standard configuration to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Top speed with the optional dynamic package is 280 km/h (173.98 mph) and 305

km/h (189.52 mph) with the dynamic package plus.

Yet the new model consumes on average just 9.8 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.00 US mpg).

The most innovative efficiency technology in the new Audi RS 7 Sportback is the cylinder on demand (COD) system. At low to medium loads and engine speeds, it deactivates cylinders 2, 3, 5 and 8 by closing their valves via electromechanical actuators. The 4.0 TFSI then runs as a four-cylinder engine until the driver accelerates more strongly again. The standard eight-speed tiptronic is specially tuned to the sporty character of the Audi RS 7 Sportback.

The Audi RS 7 Sportback comes standard with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and with polished, 20inch forged lightweight wheels in a seven twin-spoke design. The five-door high-performance coupe also rolls on optional 21-inch cast wheels in a choice of three designs.

The body of the Audi RS 7 Sportback includes up to 20 percent aluminum and includes many parts of highstrength and ultra high-strength steels. Its high rigidity is the foundation for the precise handling, excellent workmanship and quiet cabin free of intrusive noise.

The RS 7 Sportback is available in a choice of ten exterior colors, including the new shade Nardo gray and the exclusive finish Daytona gray, matt effect. Two styling packages – matt aluminum and carbon – further customize the appearance.

The new SQ5 is powered by a free-revving, supercharged, three-liter V6 engine with a displacement of 2,995 cc.

Its compressor sits in the 90-degree V of the cylinder banks and is belt-driven by the crankshaft. The 3.0 TFSI engine produces 260 kW (354 hp) between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm, and delivers 470 Nm (346.65 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft between 4,000 and 4,500 rpm.

The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes just 5.3 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). The Audi SQ5 consumes on average 8.5 liters of fuel per 100 km in the NEDC (21 US mpg). This equates to CO2 emissions of 199 grams per kilometer (320.26 g/m) in the NEDC. An eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent allwheel drive with torque vectoring transfer the power of the SQ5 firmly to the road. The electromechanical steering not only plays a major role in the efficiency of the SQ5, it also provides very precise road feel.

Audi also offers the optional dynamic steering with a steplessly variable ratio.

The platinum gray radiator grille with its horizontal double bars in aluminum look, the distinctive bumpers and the roof spoiler are particularly eye-catching.

The interior is bathed in black, with the headlining optionally available in Moon Silver. The standard power-adjustable sport seats are covered with a combination of Pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara, with four different colors of leather optional. The Audi SQ5 has been designed specifically for the following markets: United States, Canada, Russia, China, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, South Africa, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile and the Ukraine. In Germany and many other European markets, the SQ5 TDI takes its place as the sporty top model in its series. It is scheduled to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the third quarter of 2013.

BENTLEY

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Continental GT Speed Convertible Continental GT V8

Bentley unveiled its new open-top performance flagship, the Continental GT Speed Convertible.

Commenting during the Bentley press conference at the Detroit Auto Show, Dr.Wolfgang Schreiber, Chairman and Chief Executive, said: “The new Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible is a truly breathtaking Grand Tourer, promising supercar performance and high end luxury, with the added thrill of open top

motoring. This unveiling maintains our position as the largest producer of high luxury cars in the world, with our market share continuing to grow.�

The new GT Speed Convertible features a 625 PS (616 bhp) twin-turbocharged 6.0 litre W12, while delivering a 15 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency. The closeratio eight-speed transmission, uprated and lowered suspension and retuned steering provide breath-

taking acceleration and sharp, communicative handling.

Permanent all-wheel drive ensures optimum traction and power delivery whatever the road conditions.

The new GT Speed Convertible has a top speed of 202 mph (325 km/h) and in true Bentley style, no compromises have been made in craftsmanship, luxury or refinement to deliver this unrivalled performance.

Subtle sporting design cues include exclusive 21inch alloy wheels, dark-tint grilles and ‘rifled’ exhaust tail pipes. Inside its handcrafted cabin, the GT Speed Convertible features the Mulliner Driving Specification as standard, blending contemporary luxury with a distinctly sporting character.

Also on stand at Detroit is the Continental GT V8.

Powered by a new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8, the Continental GT and its GT Convertible stablemate achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.

The new engine delivers maximum power of 507 PS (500 bhp / 373 Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660 Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. This translates into a 0-60 mph sprint time of 4.6 seconds for the GT coupe (0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds) and a top speed of 188 mph (303 km/h).

At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 500 miles (800 km) on a single tank of fuel.

DODGE

Dart GT The 2013 Dodge Dart compact car redefined performance with an agile, fun-to-drive experience, compliments of its Alfa Romeo roots; the interior comforts of larger, more expensive cars and the value and fuel efficiency of a compact car with three fuel-efficient powertrains.

Building off the exceptionally well-equipped Dart Limited, the GT adds: 184 horsepower 2.4-liter Tigershark with MultiAir 2 with six-speed manual or available six-speed PowerTech automatic AutoStick; 18-inch aluminum wheels; sport suspension with frequency sensing damping shocks; unique performance front fascia with black accents and Hyper Black grille; black projector headlamp bezels; class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips; class-exclusive racetrack LED taillamps; unique premium Nappa perforated leather seats in Black with Ruby Red stitching or two-tone Black/Ruby Red. The all-new Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern vehicle that is loaded with state-of-the-art technology and all the safety features drivers and passengers desire including, 10 standard air bags, available ParkView rear back up camera, blind spot monitoring and rear crosspath detection.

A variety of options are available to allow the GT customer the ability to personalize their Dart to their exact specifications. It starts with a choice of 12 exterior colors, all available at no extra charge.

The 2013 Dodge Dart is built in America at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill. Production of the 2013 Dodge Dart GT will begin in the second quarter 2013.

BMW

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BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe Captivating looks laced with premium quality and groundbreaking innovations are the standout features of the models charged with continuing the success of the BMW brand into the future.

The BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe, celebrating its world premiere in, offers an early glimpse ahead to the next generation of BMW’s sporting mid-range Coupe.

The new BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe is visibly larger than the BMW 3 Series Coupe in terms of length, width and wheelbase, while the roofline is considerably lower. Headlined by these perfectly balanced proportions, the new BMW Coupe embodies a development curve at its zenith. However, the “4” is about more than just a standalone design; it also boasts a new level of sporting dynamics, greater exclusivity and even clearer differentiation from the BMW 3 Series range.

BMW M also unveiled a third body variant of the BMW M6 high-performance sports car for the first time at the NAIAS 2013. The extra room on board the fourdoor Coupe allows two rear passengers to bask in generous levels of spaciousness.

Familiar M features underscore the car’s bespoke styling inside and out. Under the bonnet lies a V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developing 412 kW/560 hp and peak torque of 680 Newton meters (502 lb-ft). This impressive power is channelled to the rear wheels via a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. Other stars of the show include the Active M Differential at the rear axle, an M-specific chassis, variable-ratio hydraulic steering and a high-performance compound braking system.

New exterior features, detailed interior refinements, a new equipment package and a new entry-level engine variant allowed the BMW Z4 to make an even more attractive and innovative case for itself in Detroit.

Three new body colours are available exclusively with the Design Pure Traction option, which is also new.

Meanwhile, black and orange tones create a particularly absorbing contrast of colours in the interior.

Additional scope for individualisation is provided by new 17-inch and 18-inch light-alloy wheels and the optional M Sport package. And there is also the arrival of a new model variant to report; the BMW Z4 sDrive18i is powered by a 2.0-litre engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology developing 115 kW/156 hp. This new entry point to the Z4 range can also be ordered with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The new Limited Edition Lifestyle equipment package shines an even brighter spotlight on the aesthetic qualities of the BMW 1 Series Coupe and BMW 1 Series Convertible. As well as the exclusive Mineral White metallic paint, customers can also choose from two other exterior colours, while 18-inch lightalloy wheels accentuate the cars’ classy looks. The Lifestyle Edition contrasts are particularly effective on the BMW 1 Series Convertible; a brown soft-top with silver pigmentation generates fascinating light effects, for example. Brown leather trim with white contrast stitching plays the lead role in the interior of the Lifestyle Edition cars. A matching brown sports leather steering wheel, specially badged door sill strips and Fineline Stream fine wood trim elements add the finishing touches to the interior ambience.

CADILLAC

ELR

The ELR, unveiled by Cadillac in Detroit, delivers on the promise of the Converj Concept on which it is based. The exterior establishes a new, progressive proportion for the brand while the interior introduces a new design theme that will define future Cadillac models, emphasizing modern elegance, technology and precisely crafted details.

A flush front fascia and grille – with active shutters behind the grille opening – as well as tapered fascia corners, enable air to move easily around the car to reduce drag.

In the rear, sharp edges and a carefully designed spoiler also manage airflow. Inside, the ELR’s classic 2+2 layout is driver focused, emphasizing modern luxury, connectivity and precisely crafted details. The leathertrimmed interior blends authentic chrome and wood accents – and available carbon fiber trim – as well as a sueded microfiber headliner and steering wheel covered in leather and sueded microfiber.

The ELR is powered by GM EREV technology, combining pure electric drive and an efficient, range-extending 1.4L gasoline-powered electric generator capable of 154 kW (207 hp) of total system power.

The ELR’s battery is a T-shaped, 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located along the centerline of the vehicle, between the front and rear wheels for optimal weight distribution. The 5.5-foot-long (1.6 m), 435-pound (198 kg) pack supplies energy to an advanced electric drive unit capable of 295 lb.-ft. of instant torque (400 Nm) to propel the vehicle. Using only the energy stored in the battery, the ELR will deliver a GM-estimated range of about 35 miles (56 km) of pure electric driving, depending on terrain, driving techniques and temperature.

Because the ELR operates so quietly in all-electric mode, a driver-activated feature sounds a noise to alert pedestrians, particularly those with visual impairments, in an intersection. The alert was developed in conjunction with the American Federation of the Blind.

ELR production begins in the United States in late 2013 with sales starting in early 2014 in North America and expanding to global markets including China and Europe.

CHEVROLET

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2014 Corvette Stingray

The 2014 Corvette represents the seventh generation of the car. Each has been defined by all-new or significantly revised design, architecture and technology features that have helped Corvette maintain its position as the best-selling premium sports car in America.

The 2014 Corvette Stingray is the most powerful standard model ever, with an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm). It is also the most capable standard model ever, able to accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than four seconds and achieve more than 1g in cornering grip.

It is expected to be the most fuel-efficient Corvette, exceeding the EPA-estimated 26 mpg of the current model. The all-new Corvette Stingray shares only two parts with the previous generation Corvette. It incorporates an all-new frame structure and chassis,

a new powertrain and supporting technologies, as well as completely new exterior and interior designs.

Highlights include: real carbon fiber interior, aluminum and hand-wrapped leather materials, two new seat choices – each featuring a lightweight magnesium frame for exceptional support – and dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens; advanced driver technologies, including a five-position Drive Mode Selector and a new sevenspeed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching that anticipates gear selections; all-new 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine combines advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system that delivers more power while using less fuel; lightweight materials, including carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminum frame help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance Track-capable Z51 Performance Package includes an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, as well as a unique aero package that further improves high-speed stability.

The new Corvette Stingray will be built at GM’s Bowling Green (KY) assembly plant and will go on sale in the third quarter of 2013.

FIAT

500 Abarth Tenebra 500 Cattiva

Chevrolet also unveiled the all-new 2014 Silverado 1500 full-size pickup. New from hood to hitch, Silverado is engineered to be the strongest, smartest, and most capable Silverado ever.

Among the many updates for 2014 are a new trio of powerful, efficient EcoTec3 engines; a stronger, quieter, more comfortable cab; revised steering, suspension and brakes; ingenious solutions for managing cargo in the bed and true truck capability for towing and hauling.

The new Silverado design is about much more than just looks. The new front end is engineered to improve sealing for more efficient cooling, while the roof and tailgate spoiler were shaped in the wind tunnel to smooth airflow over the truck for reduced drag. New inlaid doors, which fit into recesses in the bodyside, reduce wind noise for a quieter cab.

The engine family includes a new 4.3L V-6 that will have ample torque to power a crew cab pickup and tow a substantial trailer, as well as a new 5.3L V-8 designed for more power, more torque and better efficiency than the current version, which is currently the V-8 fuel economy leader. A new 6.2L V-8 is engineered to be the most capable engine in any light-duty pickup.

The Fiat brand continues to showcase the design potential of the Fiat 500 lineup with two new design concepts. The models are based on the successful high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth and the recently launched Fiat 500 Turbo, and they showcase how unique, sporty and personal their 500s can look.

The Fiat 500 Abarth Tenebra is presented in Matte Grigio (gray) exterior paint This Cinquecento features new Nero (black) Chrome exterior accents, Gloss Nero headlamp, tail lamp and parking lamp bezels, and new lightweight 16-inch Hyper Nero Chrome Abarth design aluminum wheels. For even more distinction, the signature Abarth bodyside stripe and mirror cap are Grigio in color and remain glossy for added contrast. For a bold finishing touch, a Gloss Grigio roof-sized Abarth “Scorpion� logo delivers an unmistakable look.

The new Fiat 500 Cattiva (in the picture) adds even more excitement and style with its turbocharged engine, vibrant Rame (copper) exterior color and contrasting Nero accents for a bi-color appearance.

Inspired by the new 2013 Fiat 500 Sport and Turbo, the Fiat 500 Cattiva design concept includes Nero Chrome exterior accents, Gloss Nero headlamp, tail lamp and parking lamp bezels, and a sport-tuned suspension with unique 16-inch satin dark grey painted aluminum wheels. For a bold appearance to the iconic Cinquecento silhouette, the roof and aggressive liftgate spoiler are painted Gloss Nero for a distinctive bi-color look.

FORD

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Atlas Concept

“We wanted the Ford Atlas Concept to reflect how Ford trucks help customers in both their worlds – professionally and personally,” said J Mays, Ford group vice president and chief creative officer.

Designers enhanced truck functionality, while creating new advanced features. For example, multiple tiedown points are integrated within the cargo box walls and load floor, along with 110-volt electrical outlets in the cargo box to charge power tools. An integrated roof carrying system and hidden extendable ramps give the truck unique functionality for a variety of jobs.

The interior is themed with structural styling cues and features lightweight seating in comfortable leather, allowing for extra legroom for rear passengers – along with integrated storage for smaller items. “Floating” instrument pods and glove-friendly buttons and controls keep the interior functional and ruggedly stylish.

The Ford Atlas Concept features a next-generation EcoBoost® powertrain, which introduces truckenhanced Auto Start-Stop engine shutoff technology.

Auto Start-Stop shuts off the engine when stopped in traffic to save fuel – and smartly suspends the feature when the truck knows it is towing.

EcoBoost engines use gasoline direct injection and turbocharging to deliver fuel-economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger-displacement engines.

HONDA

Urban SUV Concept

An all-new Honda “Urban SUV Concept” vehicle made its world debut in Detroit. The dynamic concept hints at the styling direction of an all-new small SUV slated to launch in Japan by the end of 2013, followed by the U.S. market in 2014.

The concept showcases clean and sophisticated styling, dynamic character lines and a strong stance, with hidden rear door handles giving the SUV a coupe-like presence. Measuring 169.3 inches long, the Urban SUV Concept is nine inches shorter than the Honda CR-V, making it the ideal size for navigating both crowded city streets and open mountain roads.

Part of Honda’s Global Compact Series, and utilizing the Honda-original center-tank layout featured on the Fit, the model will include Honda’s configurable Magic Seat® setup that can provide a host of passenger and cargo options, including a fold-flat mode for maximum cargo capacity. The new model will also feature next-generation telematics and a modern interior. The small SUV will be manufactured along with the Fit at Honda’s newest North American plant near Celaya, Mexico, expected to open in the spring of 2014.

HYUNDAI

HCD-14 Genesis HCD-14 Genesis concept car conveys a fluidicprecision, liquid-metal design language. A bold front fascia surrounds brushed metal grille surfaces with a deep vertical grille opening. The corners of the rear hood incorporate heat extractor design accents that integrate seamlessly with exterior mirror design.

Large wheels were developed from a mix of premium lightweight alloys with carbon fiber surrounding the voided areas of the wheel design. While the HCD-14 Genesis exterior design makes a statement of its own, the driver’s environment is where its technological innovation breaks new ground. Ergonomics engineers eliminated the traditional center stack, developing an intuitive driver interface system that allows the HCD14 driver to better keep his eyes on the road. Freed from traditional design restrictions, designers created a controls layout devoid of intimidating clusters of buttons and knobs. Using state-of-the-art driver eyetracking and 3-D hand-gesture recognition, HCD-14 Genesis is able to recognize driver commands free from the distractions associated with manual controls.

INFINITI

Q50

Taking many of its seductive styling cues from the Infiniti Essence concept, the Q50 features signature Infiniti exterior design including the “double arch” grille, dynamic arch roofline and Crescent-cut C-pillar.

Inside, the Q50 interior offers a driver-centric cockpit with an array of premium comfort and convenience features. The new Infiniti InTouchTM communications system includes large dual touch-screen displays and puts communication with the outside world within easy reach, with integration of hands-free phone, moving map navigation, entertainment and smart phone apps in a way that is safe and easy-to- use while driving.

Infiniti’s sports sedan performance leadership continues with the new Q50, which is available with a choice of a refined 328-horsepower (est.) 3.7-liter V6 or new Q50 Hybrid featuring Infiniti’s Direct Response Hybrid SystemTM with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control. All

Once a specific feature is selected via eye-tracking, thumb controls or gesture recognition can be used to select navigation, infotainment, audio, HVAC, and even smartphone connectivity functions. This intuitive interface provides the driver with complete control while keeping his eyes safely above the cowl plane, using a windshield heads-up display (HUD) for minimal driving distraction. This proprietary interface represents Hyundai’s vision for future vehicle HMI and sets a new benchmark in active driver safety technology.

The HCD-14 Genesis powertrain features the Hyundai Tau® V8 engine, displacing 5.0-liters, with direct injection and Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), for impressive power and low emissions.

HCD-14 Genesis uses optical recognition to identify the driver and initiate the starting sequence, while gear selection for the 8-speed automatic transmission is performed via paddle shifters. models come equipped with a refined 7-speed automatic transmission with available solid magnesium paddle shifters. The Infiniti Drive Mode Selector with Snow, Eco, Standard, Sport and Custom settings is also standard on all models, part of the advanced customizable digital environment system that allows drivers to create unique settings for engine, transmission, handling and steering settings. The 2014 Infiniti Q50 3.7-liter V6 and 3.5-liter Hybrid models will be available with a choice of rearwheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, and in a range of well- equipped models, including versions with special sport appearance and performance features with sport brakes and sport suspension tuning.

Two new world’s first production performance technologies made their debuts in the Q50 – Infiniti Direct Adaptive SteeringTM technology and Active Lane ControlTM. The new steering system allows advanced control of the Q50’s tire angle and steering inputs, transmitting the driver’s intentions to the wheels faster than a mechanical system. Four different steering settings are offered, allowing customization by driver preference or road conditions. The Active Lane ControlTM uses a camera-based lane marker detection system to further enhance on-center driving capability and improve vehicle straightability.

JEEP

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2014 Grand Cherokee 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT 2014 Compass 2014 Patriot

For 2014, Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers a best-inclass 30 miles per gallon (mpg) highway courtesy of a new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine for North America and a new eight-speed transmission. The new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 boasts an unmatched driving range of more than 730 miles.

A new eight-speed transmission drives the new EcoDiesel, as well as Grand Cherokee’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine – now achieving up to 25 mpg highway and more than 600-miles driving range – and its 5.7-liter V-8, now achieving up to 21 mpg highway.

Legendary Jeep capability comes courtesy of three available 4x4 systems, Jeep’s Quadra-Lift air suspension system and class-leading Selec-Terrain traction management system. Grand Cherokee boasts best-in-class towing of 7,400 pounds, and an improved crawl ratio of 44.1:1 for 2014.

The new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes even more safety and security features – more than 60, including Front Park Assist, Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, and SelecSpeed Control – as well as an array of advanced userfriendly technology features for North America such as

Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen radio with integrated climate and infotainment controls, a 7-inch customer configurable multiview display cluster, Uconnect Access Via Mobile and cloud-based voice texting. Built in Detroit, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in Laredo, Limited, Overland and Summit models.

For 2014, the SRT version of the Grand Cherokee won’t betray the sportier side of its owners: an allnew 8HP70 eight-speed automatic, fully electronic transmission features on-the-fly shift-map changing.

For an even sportier, more driver-controlled experience, the 8HP70 eight-speed transmission can be manually shifted using newly redesigned, more pronounced, ergonomically efficient steering-wheel paddle controls. The new transmission is mated to the proven and powerful 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 with Fuel Saver Technology delivering 470 horsepower (351 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 465 lb.-ft. (630 Nm) of torque at 4,300 rpm and helps deliver greatly enhanced towing performance of 7,200 pounds – a 44-percent improvement over the 5,000-lb. towing capacity from the previous model.

The 2014 Jeep Compass delivers a new six-speed PowerTech automatic transmission, refreshed exterior and interior design, unsurpassed 4x4 off-road capability in the compact-SUV segment and fuel economy of up to 30 mpg highway.

The 2014 Jeep Compass features a standard 2.0-liter World Gas Engine for the Sport and Latitude models that provides 158 horsepower (117 kW) and 141 lb.-ft.

(191 N•m) of torque coupled with the standard fivespeed manual transmission or the available new 6F24 six-speed automatic transmission. The proven 2.4-liter I-4 World Engine produces 172 horsepower (129 kW) and 165 lb.-ft. (224 N•m) and is available on all models and standard on the Limited. The Jeep Compass’ 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transaxle in front-wheel drive configuration delivers 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

The 2014 Jeep Patriot also mounts the new 6F24 sixspeed PowerTech automatic transmission. It features a standard 2.0-liter I-4 World Engine for the 2014 Patriot Sport and Latitude models that delivers 158 horsepower (117 kW) and 141 lb.-ft. (191 N•m) of torque coupled with the continuously-variable transmission II (CVT2), and delivers 30 mpg on the highway when mated to the five-speed manual transmission. The 2.4-liter I-4 World Engine produces 172 horsepower (129 kW) and 165 lb.-ft. (224 N•m) of torque, is available on all models and is standard on the Limited. The Jeep Compass and Patriot vehicles will begin arriving in dealer showrooms in the second quarter 2013.

KIA

2014 Cadenza Kia Motors America unveiled the all-new 2014 Cadenza premium sedan, the most technologicallyadvanced vehicle Kia has ever introduced in North America. With its distinctive front fascia and swept C-pillars, the Cadenza’s taut European design language is evident.

Offered in one opulently equipped trim level, the Cadenza takes in-car technology and premium features to an entirely new level. Standard features include an advanced navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic™ and UVO eServices, displayed on a high resolution 8-inch touch screen. Further enhancing driver assurance is a standard back-up camera and warning system. Two option packages are offered: The Premium Package and the Technology Package.

Check the box for the Premium Package and receive a full-length panoramic sunroof with power retractable sunshade, HID headlamps with adaptive front lighting system (AFLS), 7-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster, premium Nappa leather seats.

Stepping up to the Technology Package adds sleek 19-inch alloy wheels, electric parking brake and Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), which maintains a set distance to the vehicle ahead and can bring the car to a full stop if necessary.

The Cadenza is equipped with Kia’s most powerful V6 engine ever. The smooth-revving 3.3-liter utilizes gasoline direct injection (GDI) technology that improves performance while maintaining fuel efficiency. Power is seamlessly transferred to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission that includes a Sportmatic manual shift mode and paddle shifters flanking the leather and woodwrapped steering wheel. The GDI powerplant produces 293 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 255 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm.

LEXUS

2014 IS

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Lexus unveiled the all-new 2014 IS sedan at the North American International Auto Show. IS will be available in rear-and all-weather drive versions of the IS 250 and IS 350, a further evolution of F SPORT available across the entire model range, and for Europe, Japan, and select international markets, the IS 300h, the first IS to feature Lexus Hybrid Drive.

Rear- and all-weather drive versions of the IS 250 are powered by a 2.5 liter V6 gas engine. The IS 350 features a 3.5 liter V6 gas engine. The IS 300h will employ the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain, based on a newly developed 2.5L Atkinson-cycle engine.

IS adopts the Drive Mode Select system which offers up to four switchable driving modes- ECO, NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT S+ (S+ available on IS 350 only) - to optimize vehicle systems to suit the driver’s preferred combination of fuel economy, comfort, performance and handling characteristics.

The IS 350 RWD features the eight-speed, Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission from the IS F high performance sedan with quicker shifts, full torque converter lockup and throttle blips in manual mode. The new IS is the first Lexus model to adopt G force Artificial Intelligence (G-AI) control in Sport mode. This system automatically selects the optimal gear and downshift pattern in response to G force, and maintains the selected gear through a corner.

Every aspect of the IS has been engineered with a renewed focus on engaging performance, agile handling, accurate response to driver input and highly communicative feedback.

New, laser screw welding and adhesive body bonding techniques, along with additional spot welding, have increased overall body rigidity. This enhances stability and also allows for a more comfortable ride without compromising handling agility.

IS F SPORT models not only benefit from exclusive, exterior and interior design features, but also genuine dynamic enhancements. Both the front and rear suspension systems and the Electric Power Steering (EPS) are exclusively tuned for F SPORT, enhancing handling performance. An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system is tuned for F SPORT models, while Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) is also available on IS 350.

On board, drivers will receive vehicle information from an innovative driver’s meter cluster with a moving center ring, inspired by the LFA. Interior trim detailing includes an F SPORT steering wheel and shift knob, and aluminum pedals and scuff plates that include the Lexus logo.

The 2014 IS has 10 airbags standard, including rear seat side airbags. Available safety and security features include an Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlamp system, a Lane Departure Alert (LDA) system, a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and a Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system.

The all-new Lexus IS will go on sale in mid-2013.

LINCOLN

MKC Concept Lincoln introduced the MKC Concept, a vision of how Lincoln will enter the industry’s fastest-growing small luxury utility segment. The MKC Concept builds on the foundation of the Lincoln Design DNA found in the new MKZ. These warm, open and inviting design cues are a core element of the brand’s heritage.

An uninterrupted, highly crafted rear-view appearance highlights the signature full-width taillamps. This is made possible by a liftgate design with a side-view cutline – a Lincoln first.

The continuity also is apparent in the execution of the frameless windows, which amplify the richness of the design, as does the signature split-wing grille. The exterior is augmented by warm, cream-based white metallic tri-coat paint, 20-inch premium wheels with

polished chrome rims, and a large fixed panoramic roof that runs the length of the vehicle.

High-end bespoke design, materials and execution inspire the four-passenger interior. Just like MKZ the MKC Concept features a distinct push-button gear shift selector. This enables a flowing, expressive and architectural center console design covered with riveting details, and unique colors and materials.

The headliner is wrapped with high-end material, providing a warm and luxurious feel. The pillars are wrapped with premium leather. The seats also feature premium leather and include a unique embroidered Lincoln Star and crimson stitch accents. The smooth leather also wraps the door trim uppers, armrests, bolsters, console side rails, instrument panel and cargo area.

MASERATI

NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

Maserati Quattroporte As the flagship of the Maserati product range, the new Quattroporte is larger, lighter, more luxurious and more practical than the car it replaces.

The sixth-generation Quattroporte is a significant leap forward for Maserati. The newly-developed direct-injection engine family boasts a 3.8-litre V8 and a 3.0-litre V6, both of which are twin-turbocharged, designed by Maserati Powertrain and assembled by Ferrari at their plant in Maranello. All versions come equipped with the latest eight-speed automatic transmission developed with ZF. Even with all of its new technology, the new Quattroporte remains true to Maserati’s roots. Its 530 hp twin turbo V8 makes it not only the fastest four-door Maserati has ever built, but also the most powerful and the most fuel efficient.

The V8 Maserati Quattroporte has improved both its fuel consumption and emissions by 20 percent over the outgoing Quattroporte. This engine sets Maserati’s new performance benchmark by reaching 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and achieving a 307 km/h top speed- fully 20 km/h faster than the existing Quattroporte Sport GT S. At its peak it delivers up to 200 Nm more torque than the previous model. The V6 twin turbo Q4 All-Wheel Drive variant delivers similar performance, capable of a top speed of 285 km/h. The “Q4” system is one of the many “firsts” of the new Quattroporte: a system capable of redistributing the torque instantly from full rear wheel drive at higher speeds to a perfectly balanced 50/50 distribution between front and rear wheels when more traction is needed. The all-new architecture retains the Quattroporte’s traditionally exquisite handling thanks to its near 50:50 weight distribution, a double-wishbone front suspension and a state-of-the-art five-link rear suspension.

The new Quattroporte also delivers new standards in quality in every area from design, development, fabrication and process controls. It is produced in a new plant that combines Maserati’s traditions of craftsmanship with cutting-edge technologies that are able to help guarantee outstanding quality by controlling even the tiniest of details. Traditional hand-crafted design continues in the Quattroporte’s cabin, and this has been augmented with even more interior space in all seats and both four- and five-seat layouts.

MERCEDES-BENZ

E-Class E 63 AMG CLA

At the 2013 North American International Auto Show, the German luxury car manufacturer presented a fully-updated E-Class line consisting of saloon, estate, coupé and cabriolet versions along with the bold new E 63 AMG. The front of the E-Class was completely reworked including all-new headlights, which comprise all functional elements behind a single headlamp lens. For the first time, the E-Class is available with two different front-end designs: the standard version with a three-louvre look and star on the hood, or an incorporated sportscar radiator with a large central star.

In all E-Class models, many new assistance systems from the future S-Class are already available. The 11 electronic aids add a new dimension in combining comfort and safety.

“Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive” includes systems that can prevent accidents with crossing vehicles or pedestrians at intersections as well as Active Lane Keeping Assist, which can prevent accidents with oncoming traffic.

Powerful and efficient engines Further significant improvements to the new E-Class family are seen in regards to efficiency and eco-friendliness. Among the highlights are new, powerful BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines with spray-guided direct injection. The broad selection of engines is comprised of six highly-efficient petrol and diesel versions.

Output of the petrol engines ranges from 135 kW (184 hp) to 300 kW (408 hp), with the diesel engines starting at 100 kW (136 hp) and topping out at 195 kW (265 hp). Almost all diesel engines meet the European efficiency class ‘A’; the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID even achieves a highest-possible mark of ‘A+’.

The Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG marks a pinnacle in performance and driving dynamics. The top of the E-Class family is now designated as an S-model with maximum power of 430 kW (585 hp) and an available 800 Nm of torque, along with a newly-developed, performance-oriented

AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. This permanent all-wheel drive is available as an option on the other E 63 AMG models.

The new CLA is available for ordering with immediate effect and will be delivered to dealerships in April.

Numerous details indicate that on a design level the CLA represents a further development of the modern classic Mercedes-Benz CLS. Three prominent lines give structure to the vehicle when viewed from the side: the front structural edge over the wings flows towards the rear end in a characteristic dropping line. Another, more sinewy line spans the shoulder muscle above the rear axle, while the third feature line extends in a sweeping curve from the front wheel towards the rear. Together, these lines lend depth and dynamism to the side profile.

Numerous driving assistance systems offer support in the CLA and reduce the driver’s workload. Standardfit features for the coupé include ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection and radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist, which now helps to protect the CLA from collisions from a speed of only 7 km/h (previously: over 30 km/h).

The CLA is optionally available with a new generation of the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system featuring fully variable torque distribution.

A year ahead of the scheduled introduction of the Euro 6 in 2014, all petrol-engine variants and the top diesel variant of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA already meet the future requirements of this European emissions standard.

The petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres cover an output spectrum ranging from 90 kW (122 hp) in the CLA 180 through 115 kW (156 hp) in the CLA 200 to 155 kW (211 hp) in the CLA 250. The two diesel engines combine dynamic low-end torque with the utmost efficiency: the CLA 200 CDI generates 100 kW (136 hp), with maximum torque of 300 Nm (available from the 3rd quarter of 2013). With a cubic capacity of 2.2 litres, the CLA 220 CDI will offer an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm of torque, emitting only 109 g CO2 per kilometre.

All the engines feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. The engines are combined with a six-speed manual transmission or with the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission, which reconciles comfort and sportiness in inimitable fashion.

Five lines and packages which vary greatly in character are available to individualise the striking compact midrange coupé (length/width/height: 4630/1777/1437 millimetres). Prices vary between 28,977 Euro and 37,991 Euro (German market including 19 percent VAT).

MINI

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John Cooper Works Paceman Detroit sae the world premiere of the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman. The three-door model is the latest offering from the John Cooper Works subbrand and, with its race-bred powertrain and chassis technology, brings the promise of a high-octane race feeling to the streets of the urban jungle.

The latest MINI model has inherited the brand’s sporting genes, and the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman showcases them in particularly concentrated form. Its 208 hp turbocharged engine and chassis technology tuned precisely to harness this impressive output lay down the perfect platform for extreme driving fun. Added to which, the agility of the car is

once again improved thanks to its standard ALL4 allwheel drive.

The standard-fitted aerodynamic kit imbues the car with even greater visual impact and optimises airflow around the body. The contrast paintwork for the strikingly designed roof and exterior mirror caps is offered in a shade of red available exclusively for John Cooper Works models, as well as white and black. The distinctively designed interior includes sports seats, a sports steering wheel, interior trim strips in piano black, an anthracite-coloured roof liner, a speedometer and rev counter with dark dials, and John Cooper Works door sill strips.

NISSAN

Resonance concept

With its boldly futuristic aerodynamic styling and fuel-efficient hybrid-electric powertrain, the Nissan Resonance concept proposes an all-new dynamic and edgy design that once again wants to lead the trend for the crossover category.

The front exterior design shows the V-Motion, which starts from the front grille, moves through the hood and resonates with the iconic boomerang shaped headlights. The roof’s unique “floating” design is created through the use of the thin, steeply raked A-pillars, large full-length glass panel and flowing

D-pillar design. The effect created gives the impression of a flowing structure carried by the large windows and overall spaciousness of the cabin.

The body color, named Flare Orange, adds even more energy and warmth to the overall exterior design. Other exterior features include a tinted acrylic grille with Satin Chrome accents and 22-inch, full dynamic flow aluminum-alloy wheels.

With the interior, the designers imagined what the future of first-class space travel might be: Welcoming yet exclusive and high-tech yet premium. The resulting “VIP lounge,” with its light, buttery leather and premiumstitched seats, exudes genuine sophistication.

An advanced instrument panel floats on a generous console, creating a forum where the driver can access all infotainment and communication features. Technology is graphically layered to give a holographic experience and visual depth is used to separate information in order of importance.

The all-wheel drive Resonance includes Nissan’s proprietary “one-motor, two-clutch” system that combines a smaller displacement internal combustion gasoline engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system. Resonance also features Nissan’s next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

TOYOTA

NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

Corolla Furia Concept Toyota revealed the Corolla Furia Concept. This exciting compact sedan concept hints at the styling cues consumers can expect to see on the nextgeneration Corolla. The concept represents an exterior styling study by Toyota designers, and it builds on the brand’s product development priority to develop more dramatic, expressively designed vehicles.

“The Corolla Furia Concept is an early indicator of where our compact car design may lead in the future,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division.

The Furia is designed around a theme of “Iconic Dynamism,” which uses pure and simple surface elements to create a confident, decisive and

recognizable appearance appealing to more youthful consumers. It features a more provocative, dynamic interpretation of a compact sedan that displays a more stable, athletic stance with 19-inch allow wheels pushed to the vehicle’s corners with short overhangs to help emphasize its long wheelbase.

The Corolla Furia design includes a swept windshield, with a sloped roofline and pronounced fender flares, to help communicate a sense of motion even when the car is stationary. The aggressively styled front fascia, with a blacked-out grille treatment, helps highlight a pair of sculpted front LED headlamps that combine with the rear composite LED taillight assemblies to add a sense of advanced technology to the Furia’s impactful exterior. Carbon fiber accents adorn the Corolla Furia Concept’s wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear valance, which includes ornate metal exhaust outlet surrounds to add a sense of modern athleticism.

VOLKSWAGEN

CrossBlue concept Volkswagen is presented the concept car of a new SUV generation: the CrossBlue. The new SUV was specifically conceptualized for the USA and Canada.

It features one of the most innovative plug-in hybrid systems ever (TDI Clean Diesel + two E-motors + dualclutch transmission + “propshaft by wire”). Volkswagen estimates that fuel economy for the four-wheel drive SUV will be 89 MPGe (EPA standard fuel economy equivalent for hybrid vehicles in the USA with full utilization of battery charge; combined Highway and City cycles); in pure diesel operation, fuel economy is 35 MPG (combined Highway and City). In the test cycle of the European R101 ECE standard for electric hybrid vehicles the estimated fuel consumption is 2.1 liters per 100 km. Despite this superlative economy, the CrossBlue offers impressive drive system characteristics with a power of 225 kW/306 PS and up to 700 Newton meters of system torque; the midsize SUV completes the sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.2 seconds (0 – 100 km/h: 7.5 s). The CrossBlue can be driven in various operating modes. The default mode is the classic hybrid mode.

In Eco mode, parameters such as the accelerator pedal characteristic and air conditioner are controlled for minimal fuel and electrical consumption. In Sport mode the car exploits the drive system’s maximum power potential. Other available modes are an offroad mode (permanent four-wheel drive system), a charging mode and E-mode (zero-emissions driving).

The Volkswagen − painted in “CrossBlue Glass Flake” − is 4,987 mm long, 2,015 mm wide and 1,733 mm tall. The CrossBlue assumes a very confident stance on the road with its large track widths (1,686 mm front, 1,696 mm rear), also newly designed 21-inch alloy wheels (with 285/45 tires) and significantly flared wheel arches.

The CrossBlue is equipped with two “fuel doors” − on the left and right sides of the rear body; the filler neck for the diesel tank and SCR reservoir is located on the passenger’s side; on the driver’s side, engineers integrated two electrical sockets behind the fuel door. The first socket is used to charge the lithiumion battery; the second can be used to connect such electrical devices as electric coolers or light systems for camping. In this case, the CrossBlue acts as an auxiliary electrical generator.

The interior of the very spacious CrossBlue is equipped with six individual seats (three rows of seats).

Behind the third seating row is a cargo area with 335 liters cargo capacity (loading area length: 600 mm); when the seatbacks of the third row of seats are folded, cargo capacity grows to 812 liters, and load length is 1,387 mm. If the seatbacks of the second row are folded as well, cargo capacity increases to nearly 2,000 liters; this increases the load length to 2,230 mm.

All significant switches in the passenger compartment are designed as soft touch switches; their touch control is similar to that of a touch- screen. Gear shift travel is designed to be very short for the “shift by wire” 6-speed DSG. To ensure that guests in the rear seats can fully enjoy audio, video and online features, mini mobile iPads were integrated as monitors in each head restraint of the first seating row as part of the rear seat entertainment system.

AUTO NEWS

Dodge expands Blacktop Package to seven passenger vehicles For the 2013 calendar year, the Dodge Grand Caravan minivan, Durango seven-seat SUV and Journey mid-size crossover join the Challenger, Charger and Avenger to complete the Dodge brand’s offering of sinister-looking Blacktop packages.

Built to give customers a sporty, distinct look customized by the factory at a tremendous value, the Dodge Blacktop vehicles add unique Gloss Black wheels, select exterior paint colors, Gloss Blackpainted “split-crosshair” grilles with Gloss Black matching grille surround, darkened headlamp bezels, as well as some unique Blacktop interior touches.

“Our Blacktop packages have been so well received on Charger, Challenger and Avenger that we’re expanding it to our innovative Grand Caravan, Journey and Durango,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand. “All three of these Blacktop vehicles offer class-leading attributes with seating for up to seven and a customized one-of-a-kind appearance package starting at just $295 MSRP (Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price).” Dodge Durango Blacktop will start arriving at dealers in the first quarter of 2013.

The Journey and Grand Caravan Blacktop editions arrive in the second quarter of 2013.

AUTO NEWS FEBRUARY

Smart ahead of trends with cityflame The latest smart fortwo special model has been named “edition cityflame”. With this model smart is honing in on the latest colour trends whilst also meeting the wishes of many customers for even greater individualisation. The most striking exterior features are the bodypanels in an eye-catching pearlescent flame yellow finish (alternatively also available in black). The yellow paintwork has a particularly sporty and expressive effect in combination with the black tridion safety cell, the exclusive black-painted 3-double-spoke alloy wheels with wide tyres (175/55 R 15 at the front and 195/50 R 15 at the rear) and the black door mirror caps.

The model that is limited to 2400 vehicles is based on the passion equipment line, which means that it

comes with the softouch automatic gear programme, electric windows, air conditioning with automatic temperature control and a transparent panoramic roof with sunblind, among other features. The smart fortwo edition cityflame is available as a coupé and cabrio, with a 52 kW mhd petrol engine or a 62 kW petrol engine. Prices start at Euro 14,490.

The Aston Martin Rapide S: never stop improving The stunning new Aston Martin Rapide S is making its debut with yet more luxury and yet more power on offer in its quintessentially elegant four-door silhouette.

Still instantly recognisable as an Aston Martin, of course, the new Rapide S now boasts an imposing and assertive new ‘face’, created by virtue of the impressive and striking new full grille. Imbuing the new car with an even more sporting, forceful demeanour, the revised front end design is matched at the back by a striking new rear deck profile which includes a more pronounced boot lid ‘flip’. The aerodynamic and aesthetic upgrades both reinforce the sporting nature of new Rapide S and work to counteract lift at higher speeds.

Changes under the new Rapide’s skin are comprehensive, with a version of the new AM11 naturally-aspirated 6.0-litre V12 powerplant delivering unprecedented power and improved in-gear acceleration.

Power from the new engine jumps significantly versus that of its predecessor: up by 17% or a massive 81 PS from 477 PS at 6,000 rpm to a now very substantial 558 PS at 6,750 rpm. Peak torque increases, too, up from 600 Nm to 620 Nm at 5,000 rpm. Meanwhile an even more marked improvement in torque occurs lower down the rev range, as pulling power rises by more than 40 Nm between idle and 4,000 rpm with an additional 50 Nm available at 2,500 rpm.

New Rapide S shaves 0.3 seconds off its 0-100km/h time, which drops from the 5.2 seconds of the current car to just 4.9 seconds for the new model. Top speed climbs, meanwhile, to 306km/h. CO2 emissions drop by seven per cent – from 355 g/km to 332 g/km – while fuel economy now stands at 19.9 mpg on the official EU combined cycle.

As befits the more sporting nature of new Rapide S the car benefits from the latest Gen4 iteration of Aston Martin’s

hi-tech Adaptive Damping System (ADS). The system now offers three distinct settings: ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’, with the character of each being tailored to the nature of Rapide S. The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond quickly to different driving conditions. As luxurious as it is thrilling, the new car now boasts a host of new luxury- or sports-orientated options, allowing buyers to more precisely tailor the car to their specific style.

The new optional Carbon Exterior Pack, for instance, immediately dials up the Rapide’s sporting attitude.

Front splitter, rear diffuser, mirror caps and rear lamp infills all fashioned from carbon fibre clearly signal the sporting nature of this 558 PS four-seater.

More pronounced luxury, on the other hand, comes from the new piano black interior pack that adds a deep, rich, mirror-like shine to the facia, transmission tunnel centre plate and door handles of the Rapide S. However those with a desire for a more sporting ambience in their sports car will not be disappointed.

Optional duotone perforated red and black leather makes its Aston Martin debut here – delivering a captivating visual combination that’s unique to the new Rapide S. The new Aston Martin Rapide S will be available to order through the brand’s 146 dealers worldwide next month with prices confirmed closer to the on-sale date.

VA NE GE VIEW E PR

Renault Captur: the new idea of urban crossover Renault introduces Captur, its first urban crossover that will stand out from the crowd by delivering the best of three different worlds: the expressive styling and driving position of an SUV; the cabin space and modular interior of an MPV; the agility and driving enjoyment of a compact saloon car.

Despite its compact footprint (length: 4.12m), Renault Captur exudes a real sense of interior space which is underpinned by the forward position of its windscreen and its generous interior dimensions.

Its exclusive, colourful cabin is warm and relaxing, and this first impression is reinforced by a selection of interior customisation solutions founded on a choice of colours and motifs for the different trim features.

Renault Captur also boasts the appointments and comfort refinements expected of an MPV (multipurpose vehicle), such as a high-up driving position, large boot, modular interior and innovative stowage solutions. The standard Renault Captur will have

an equipment specification worthy of that of the next segment up, including hands-free entry, hill start assist and rear parking sensors. Also available will be the new, connected, in-dash Renault R-Link touchscreen multimedia tablet, plus a system that comprises six loudspeakers, Bluetooth® connectivity, audio-streaming and Arkamys® hi-fi sound.

Renault Captur will be easy to customise and notably comes with an original two- tone colour scheme which produces an attractive contrast between the roof and pillars and the rest of the body work.

Renault Captur is based on the same platform as New Clio. The petrol and diesel engines available for the model benefit from the very latest Renault technologies and will return best-in-class fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, starting from as low as 96g/km.

Renault Captur will be manufactured at Renault’s Valladolid plant in Spain and will be unveiled at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show in March.

AUTO NEWS FEBRUARY

VA NE GE VIEW E PR

Kia to deliver sporty concept in Geneva

Kia is set to deliver a provocative and racy new urban concept car at this year’s Geneva Motor Show.

With the company’s signature tiger-nose morphing into a mischievous yet friendly grille and headlight arrangement, coupled with strong styling lines that exude speed and energy from every angle, Kia’s newest concept vehicle is guaranteed to attract attention.

Nissan Introduces the Juke Nismo The Juke Nismo (Nismo is the performance brand for Nissan) will be powered by a 1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine based on the 16GT FOUR Type V. It has been carefully tuned to provide a driving experience only Nismo could create, complementing the vehicle’s classy-yet-sporty appearance and overall unique nature.The motorsports inspired aerodynamic bodykit and custom exterior styling is acompanied by other technical advances such as a specially-tuned suspension system that delivers responsive handling, a supple ride and excellent cornering stability.

Prices start at 2,850,750 JPY (Japanese market).

AUTO NEWS FEBRUARY

Mazzanti Evantra almost ready for world debut Evantra V8 is the exclusive “tailor-made” supercar of Mazzanti automobili produced only in limited series of 5 cars per year, each of which individually personalized.

Its name comes from the ancient etruscan language and represents an object unique, eternal and exclusive.

Evantra was also the name of the Godess of immortality for the etruscan people. The Evantra was designed by Luca Mazzanti and Zsolt Tarnok (chief designer Mazzanti automobili), striving to reach perfect equilibrium between classical and modern lines.

The smooth surfaces, the classicaly shaped fenderlines come from the traditional classic cars that influenced most the past creations. On the other hand modern are the shape of the lights with LED lights and the precise and neat outlines and connections of the air inlets and outlets around the car. These virtually different concepts have been merged together in harmony to create this unique supercar, Evantra.

The tailor-made interior is fitted with all-natural leather prepared with special aniline leather treatment, but unlimited personalisation is possible with the infinite options of special material, including exotic leather and precious materials. The center console is equipped

with a dash and data acquisition system from AIM and a Headunit (NAVI/CD/MP3) from BOSCH. The engine starter button is placed onto the roof panel in “Mazzanti” style as in the sister car ANTAS. The Evantra’s heart is an aluminium V8, naturally aspirated 7.0 litre engine, which is capable of developing 701 hp @ 6600 rpm and 848 Nm @ 4500 rpm. The Evantra V8, equipped with a 6-speed sequential gearbox, reaches maximum speed of over 350 Km/h with an acceleration of 0-100 in 3.2 seconds.

The power of the Evantra V8 is transferred onto the tarmac thanks to special high performance tyres from Continental 255/30 R20 front and 305/25 R20 rear, mounted on special 20” OZ alloy wheels. The braking system comes from Brembo, formed by 380mm discs with 6 piston calipers in the front and 360mm discs with 4 piston caliper is the back (carbon-ceramic system is optional).

Mazzanti says the “Evantra n°00” is almost ready.

The world premiere will take place during the most exclusive Supercar show in the world: Top Marques Monaco show, that will take place in Monaco from April 18th to the 21st.

Acura Announces Pricing for 2014 RLX Flagship Sedan The all-new 2014 Acura RLX flagship sedan will debut at Acura dealerships on March 15, 2013, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $48,450*. Featuring an all-new 310-horspower direct-injected SOHC i-VTEC V-6 powerplant, the most spacious passenger cabin in its class, and the first-ever application of signature Acura technologies including Precision All-Wheel Steer™ and Jewel Eye™ LED headlamps, the RLX delivers new levels of technology-enhanced performance, safety, and luxury-class comfort to Acura’s range-topping sedan.

The 2014 Acura RLX will be available in five grades – the well-equipped RLX, the RLX with Navigation, the featurepacked RLX with Technology package, the RLX with Krell Audio package, and the top-of-the-line RLX with Advance package.

TRIM MSRP* RLX $48,450 RLX with Navigation $50,950 RLX Technology Package $54,450 RLX with Krell Audio Package $56,950 RLX with Advance Package $60,450 *MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, vehicle options and destination charge of $895.00.

Dealer prices may vary.

Tata Motors presents its premium hatchback Tata Motors launched its premium hatchback: the all new Tata Vista D90.

Powered by a specially tuned Quadrajet diesel engine, with Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) technology, this new generation hatch comes loaded with best-in-class technologies and features, which will cater to the thrill-seeking Indian car buyers.

It promises to provide a thrilling driving experience, with the 90 PS Quadrajet diesel engine. The D90’s engine uses a revolutionary VGT technology, which optimises engine performance at all speeds, resulting in faster throttle response with 200Nm Torque and fuel economy of 21.12 KMPL. The D90 engine is perfectly mated to a Eurotech 2 gearbox, for smooth and comfortable gearshifts to ensure 0-100 Km/h in just 15.5 seconds and a top speed of 158 Km/h. Touchscreen Multimedia, with a multi-colour TFT interface and an in-built GPS system, combines entertainment, navigation and communication needs. The touchscreen offers GPS navigation features like adjustable day & night mode, saved destination database, voice instruction guidance and optimal route mode. It comes with a multi-media DVD player and Blue5 technology (pair upto 5 mobile phones through Bluetooth connectivity).

Another technology added is the Advanced Driver Information System and Fuel Computer. A small digital screen provides an instant update on mileage, average fuel consumption, distance-to-empty, ambient temperature and a digital clock. The Tata Vista D90 has been designed for the young and trendy customer. It’s new sporty front and rear bumpers, lavish chrome pack, aerodynamic spoiler, triple barrel headlamps, infinity contrast roof and 2-tone alloy wheels, add vigour to the exteriors, making the Tata Vista D90 a sporty and stylish hatch.

The Tata Vista D90 has been engineered with a special NVH pack that insulates the exterior noise. The car is now even more robust, with 105 kgs of high strength steel frame for extra strength and protection.

The car comes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) technology, as a standard fitment, ensuring better stability and steerability under all braking conditions.

The all-new Tata Vista D90 is available in five colours - Ultra Violet (new), Porcelain White, Spice Red, Cavern Grey and Jet Silver - and 2 trim levels - D90 VX and D90 ZX+. The Tata Vista D90 range starts from Rs. 5.99 lakhs (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

GLOBAL NEWS Europe Germany / Switzerland Wiesmann on snow Top winter destination meets up with top sports cars. “Wiesmann on snow” is a superlative driving experience that falls right in the middle of high season in the vibrant St. Moritz. Blue sky, icy cold, snow and sun, a perfectly prepared, 60,000 sqm test track and an amazing amount of horsepower, these are the ingredients that make the experience even more fun! You can enjoy unforgettable days in the 4-star superior hotel “Saratz” in the company of other genuine sports car enthusiasts.

Experience the winter driving training for two days under professional instruction and perfect your personal driving skills and push one of the Wiesmann sports cars (which will most certainly be available to you) to the limit of driving physics under the highest safety standards.

Further information: events@wiesmann.com

North America United States Eyes on Design Awards presented in Detroit In its seventh year, the EyesOn Design Awards honors the best production and concept cars making their North American or worldwide debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Keeping with the spirit of other EyesOn Design events, the EyesOn Design Awards are selected by active and retired design heads from automotive manufacturers, along with academic chairs of transportation design programs and design leaders from other fields.

These awards recognize the skill and creativity of today’s most gifted designers in the areas of Aesthetics and Innovation, Concept Implementation, Functionality and Spirit of Industrial Design. Presented by the Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology (DIO), the EyesOn Design Awards serve as an extension of the DIO’s annual EyesOn Design automotive exhibition held each June to honor and celebrate the past, present and future of automotive design. This year’s winner were the 2014 Cadillac ELR (winner of the Production Category), the Nissan Resonance Concept & Ford Atlas Concept (tied in the Concept Category).

Europe Austria / Germany

Mattias Ekström wins buggy race

First victory for Mattias Ekström in 2013: The Audi factory driver won a snow buggy race in Kitzbühel, which Audi partner Red Bull had organized on the fringes of the famous Hahnenkamm race. The Swede prevailed

against prominent and high-caliber competitors: At the finale of the fun event on snow and ice he defeated the rally stars Sébastien Loeb and Sébastien Ogier as well as space jumper Felix Baumgartner.

Asia / Europe UAE / United Kingdom Aston Martin celebrations hit Dubai Aston Martin is celebrating its 100 years in 2013 with many centenary celebrations.

One of the first events to take place was the airlift of Aston Martin’s ultimate GT, the Vanquish, onto the helipad at the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai, in front of some of the region’s most important dignitaries.

It’s the first time a car has been placed onto the helipad, which sits 1,000ft above the ground at the top of the sail-shaped building.

Speaking from the helipad, Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez said: “It is with great pride that we continue our centenary celebrations in such unique manner in the

city of Dubai.Today we are achieving another world first – one of many for Aston Martin over the years. This is a true feat for Aston Martin and a fantastic way to begin a new century of global success for our iconic brand.”

Europe Germany Mercedes enhances safety with assistance system

Mercedes‑Benz has developed an assistance system which aims to eliminate the threat of so-called wrongway drivers, and can even prevent drivers from driving unintentionally in the opposite direction to the flow of traffic. The German Federal Department of Transport estimates that about 1700 radio warnings about phantom vehicles on German roads are issued annually. The ADAC speaks of up to 2800 wrong-way drivers annually – that is more than seven a day. In most cases wrong-way driving ends without tragedy, but the threat of wrong-way drivers still accompanies drivers every day.

The new traffic sign assistance system designed by the Stuttgart-based premium manufacturer is able to recognise no-entry signs and issues an acoustic and visual warning to the driver if he or she should stray on to the incorrect carriageway and become a dangerous wrong-way driver.

Asia / North America China / United States

GLOBAL NEWS

Tesla Motors makes debut in Hong Kong Tesla Motors Model S is now available for in-person customer demonstrations and test drives in Hong Kong, making the chinese city the first location in Asia where customers can drive Model S on public roads.

Tesla also introduced its innovative “Design Studio” in Hong Kong, within the same space as its existing

The technical core of the system is a camera on the inside of the windscreen. It can visually identify noentry signs and send the information obtained to the computer in the on-board electronics. If it detects that the vehicle is about to pass the relevant prohibitory signs and is entering a motorway slip road, the system warns the driver. Three loud beeps are issued and a red no-entry symbol lights up in the display in order to make the driver aware of the danger.

In order to further improve the reliability of the system, the electronics compare the data from the camera with data from the navigation system. The new traffic sign assistance system will initially be available in the new Mercedes‑Benz S‑Class and the facelifted E-Class. It will then be gradually introduced into other models. Initially the system will be designed primarily for use in Germany.

Mercedes‑Benz is however working intensively on adapting the system for use in other countries.

Service Center. Tesla’s Design Studio features interactive displays where customers can design their own Tesla Model S on a large touchscreen. “We are very excited to bring Model S and our new, interactive space design to Hong Kong,” said George Blankenship, vice president of worldwide sales and ownership experience. “Our approach continues to be focused on informing as many people as possible about EVs, our company, and the advanced technology behind Model S.” By the end of 2012, Tesla will have 23 locations in North America and 33 worldwide. Tesla will continue to expand its retail network into 2013, supporting the mission to engage and inform as many people as possible about driving electric.

North America United States Mopar garage at Detroit Auto Show Chrysler was present at the Detroit Auto Show with a 1,015 sq.-ft. garage exhibit, feature select Mopar parts and accessories for the all-new 2013 SRT Viper and Dodge Dart. In the Fiat display, a glass wall of Mopar parts and accessories for the Fiat 500 was also on display. In total, more than 300 Mopar performance parts and accessories were shown.

Mopar is Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand and distributes 280,000 parts and accessories. Inside the Mopar garage visitors could take pictures of a fully Moparized all-new 2013 SRT Viper and a Dodge Dart Slingshot.

For show-goers who want to create their own Mopar garage, Mopar now offers high-end commercial-grade toolboxes that feature the brand’s logo and are available in three colors: Mopar Blue, HEMI Orange and White.

Mopar will also introduce a full line of standard and commercial-grade custom cabinetry. Customers may visit www.wearmopar.com to purchase toolboxes and other Moparabilia.

Europe United Kingdom / Germany Tate and BMW partner again in 2013 Tate and BMW announced a dynamic performance programme for BMW Tate Live 2013. Now in its second year, BMW Tate Live is a major four-year partnership between BMW and Tate, which focuses on performance and interdisciplinary art in the London gallery and online. Joan Jonas, Liu Ding and Charles Atlas are among the artists commissioned to contribute this year with the first event of 2013, Suzanne Lacy “Silver Action”, taking place on 3 February.

The programme explores the diverse ways in which artists approach live performance in the 21st century whether in the gallery or online. Throughout the programme, artists will work with the local community, animate key moments in art history, and collaborate across dance, film and other art forms.

Integral to the programme are BMW Tate Live: Thought Workshops, a series of participatory discussions and a keynote address.

Europe Italy / France

Citroen DS3 Cabrio for charity at Milan Fashion Week For this year’s Fashion Week, Citroen presented a single DS3 Cabrio “L’Uomo Vogue” at Studio Visconti in Milan.

The special model was styled by the Italian magazine L’Uomo Vogue and Citroen’s styling team. The all-new version will shortly be put up for auction, with the proceeds going to the Women Create Life project. The car on show features special colours-and-materials work inside and out, inspired by the latest trends in men’s fashion as highlighted in L’Uomo Vogue.

The special model is cloaked in an all-new body colour, Stardust matte grey, and topped with a canvas roof covered in subtle motifs that reinterpret the monogram canvas. The DS monogram has been laser

Africa / Asia Ghana / South Korea Hyundai opens Technical High Schools in Ghana

GLOBAL NEWS

Hyundai Motor Company held an opening ceremony of the ‘Hyundai-KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency) Dream Center,’ a technical high school established as part

engraved on the wing mirror housings to underscore the singular nature of the DS3 Cabrio L’Uomo Vogue.

The interior combines refinement and elegance with seat upholstery in BlackBrown watchstrap Club leather.

The dashboard and front panelling are trimmed with the same leather, together with pearl-effect stitching, making its debut appearance on a Citroen DS3.

The DS3 Cabrio L’Uomo Vogue will be put up for auction, with the proceeds to be donated to Women Create Life, a project developed as part of the UN’s World Health Organization. Women Create Life is an NGO that through art and culture supports and fosters initiatives to improve the health conditions of women and children. of Hyundai’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts in Koforidua City, Ghana. The official opening of the first Hyundai-KOICA Dream Center took place a year after its groundbreaking ceremony last January. The opening of the Center in Ghana marks the start of Hyundai’s program for establishing schools in African and Asian countries.

Hyundai-KOICA Dream Center is a government-approved technical high school, which Hyundai established in collaboration with KOICA, a Korean government agency, and Plan Korea, a branch of one of the oldest and largest children’s development organizations Plan International, in order to expand education opportunities and create jobs for underprivileged African and Asian students.

The Center consists of two main buildings; a three-story school building equipped with classrooms, practice rooms, computer room and library and a dormitory building designed to occupy 40 students with a cafeteria built in. In particular, the dorm was fully funded by Hyundai Motor, and ‘Happy Move Global Youth Volunteers,’ Hyundai’s official university student volunteering group, participated in its construction.

Europe United Kingdom McLaren 50th anniversary On September 2nd 2013, the McLaren Group will celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Echoes of McLaren’s history will reverberate throughout a series of unique events and celebrations to be held across the anniversary year.

From the McLaren 50 logos on team shirts, through specially commissioned heritage video features, to the launch of the new MP4-28 Formula 1 car with Jenson Button and Sergio Perez on January 31st. All of this and more will be an opportunity to revel in McLaren’s present while recalling the 50-year past.

Ron Dennis CBE, executive chairman, McLaren Group and McLaren Automotive, said: “McLaren’s history is long and storied, but McLaren’s legacy is harder to define – and that’s because it’s still being vividly written every day by the dedicated men and women who work

at the McLaren Technology Centre. Bruce McLaren wrote the beginning of the story, and the legend is going to continue for many years to come. I’m only a chapter, not the book, and I want other people to come in and write their own chapters as time goes by.”

FOCUS

NEW RENAULT CLIO

Packed with innovations, agile and comfortable

Since the launch of the original model in 1990, some 11.5 million Clios have been sold in more than 115 countries. Today, a new chapter in Clio’s history is written with the fourth-generation version.

New Renault Clio is the first production model to give full expression to the Renault design renaissance. New Renault Clio stands out through its front-end design which features a prominent Renault logo, set bold and upright to a gloss black background, an arrangement first seen on the DeZir concept car. This frontal treatment is further emphasised by the headlights and LED daytime running lights. Offered only in five-door form, New Clio has a sporty silhouette, accentuated by integrated rear door handles concealed close to the rear quarter lights. In comparison with its predecessor, it packs extra dynamism and personality thanks to a lower ride height, wider tracks, wheels pushed out wide within the arches, and a reduction in the gap between the wheels and wheel arches. Renault designers paid particularly careful attention to achieving balanced proportions for New Clio. Standing at 4,062mm in length, 1,732mm wide (excluding mirrors) and 1,448mm tall, it sits 45mm closer to the ground than its predecessor.

Meanwhile, the front and rear track have been significantly widened (by between 34 and 36mm). The lower ride-height ensures an assertive stance which is also beneficial to the car’s aerodynamics.

From launch, New Clio will be offered in a choice of eight body colours.

CLIP

FOCUS - NEW RENAULT CLIO

“New Renault Clio was conceived as a piece of sensuous sculpture which stimulates desire.

Like muscles, its curves express the dynamism radiated by the DeZir concept car. No acute or aggressive angles, just voluptuous curves that make you want to reach out and caress it.”

Laurens van den Acker - senior Vice president Corporate Design Renault The interior of New Renault Clio perfectly complements the exterior style: comfort goes hand-in-hand with a modern feel thanks to the dashboard sculpted in the shape of an aircraft wing, the multimedia system on the centre console, a wide range of colour options, a digital speedometer, comfortable seats and chrome and piano-black trim highlights.

Buyers will be able to personalise the exterior of their vehicle with a selection of door mirror housings, grille bars, rear panel skirts, lower door protectors and wheel finishes, as well as a choice of roof graphics. To personalise the interior, the menu covers the dashboard, door panels, steering wheel, grab handles, gear lever surround, air vent surrounds, upholstery materials and optional floor mats.

Packed with innovations Available as an option for New Clio, Renault R-Link provides a bridge between the car and the connected world outside thanks to: - A wide seven-inch (18cm) touchscreen, intuitive voice commands and, as a market first, a home page that can be personalised by the user for safe and simple access to essential functions, without the driver having to take his or her eyes off the road.

- TomTom® connected navigation includes Live services and boasts the market’s best real-time traffic information, helping to minimise journey times and fuel consumption.

- Among other benefits, a connection with the car’s own electronic systems permits access to an advanced ecodriving function which analyses the driver’s behaviour and provides advice to help reduce fuel consumption.

- Thanks to the Renault R-Link Store users can easily view or download a comprehensive and varied range of apps from their car or computer (via ‘My Renault’).

The catalogue of apps will cover a large spectrum of uses, extending from journey optimisation and vehicle information, to budget guides, practical help, communications (e-mails, social networking, R-Tweet app), entertainment/leisure and emergency calls.

New Renault Clio will also be available with the MEDIA NAV system which is standard equipment for two from three equipment levels.

The intuitive, centre console-mounted MEDIA NAV system features a seven-inch (18cm) touchscreen, a radio and a Bluetooth速 function for the audio streaming of music and hands-free use of a mobile phone.

Two new engines: advanced technology for everyday use New Renault Clio combines low fuel consumption with driving pleasure thanks to a significantly updated range of petrol and diesel engines. The two petrol engines (Energy TCe 90 and TCe 120) combine very low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions with responsive performance and mid-range acceleration. The significantly improved newgeneration Energy dCi engines bestow New Clio with recordbreaking fuel economy for the same driving pleasure.

New Energy TCe 90 petrol engine New Clio is the first Renault model to feature the new threecylinder petrol turbocharged Energy TCe 90 engine. This is the first three-cylinder powerplant ever produced by Renault and, from launch, will provide a remarkable balance between driving pleasure and fuel economy: - This three-cylinder, turbocharged 900cc unit comes with Stop&Start and delivers the performance of a normallyaspirated 1.4-litre powerplant, - Peak power of 90hp at 5,000rpm, - An ultralow-inertia turbo for satisfying response from low engine speeds: 135Nm at 2,500rpm (90 percent of peak torque available from 1,650rpm), - An economy-optimised version with taller gear ratios and fuel consumption of 4.3 litres/100km, equivalent to CO2 emissions of 99g/km , - A 21 percent fuel consumption and CO2 emissions savingc compared to the TCe 100 it replaces.

New diesel Energy dCi 90 The latest addition to the Energy family is a new 90hp version of the 1.5 dCi, equipped with Stop&Start: - A four-cylinder 1.5-litre engine with 220Nm of torque available from 1,750rpm, an increase of 20Nm over the current dCi 90, - Peak power of 90hp at 4,000rpm, - An economy-optimised version with taller gear ratios which also qualifies for the Renault eco2 signature with fuel consumption of just 3.2 litres/100km, equivalent to CO2 emissions 83g/kmc.

New TCe 120 New Clio will be also available with the new TCe 120 engine mated to six-speed EDC transmission (Efficient Dual Clutch), a first for Renault in the B segment: - A four-cylinder 1.2-litre engine with the performance of a normally-aspirated 1.6 engine, - Direct fuel injection and turbocharging for peak power of 120hp and 190Nm of torque from 1,750rpm.

This engine is currently in the process of being homologated and will become available in the first half of 2013.

FOCUS - NEW RENAULT CLIO

CLIP With total sales of almost 2.4 million units since 2005, including more than one million in France, the third-generation of Clio – which is now known as ‘Clio Collection’ – rounds off Renault’s range in the city car segment, alongside Twingo, Modus and New Clio. Two equipment levels will be available – Alizé and Business – while customers will be able to specify either the 1.2 16V 75 petrol engine or the

A proven, quality chassis New Clio is built on a new version of the Alliance’s B platform which has been optimised for outstanding comfort, manoeuvrability and low noise levels. This chassis’ abilities have already been widely praised, but it has now been finetuned with a longer wheelbase and wider track, as well as an in-depth weight reduction programme.

New Clio’s suspension combines driving precision with reduced noise and vibration levels. Stability and road holding have both been enhanced by the extended wheelbase (+14mm, to 2,589mm) and wider track (+34-36mm). The Macpherson-type front suspension is linked to a rightangled triangular lower wishbone with twin bushes. This configuration blends sharp handling with excellent comfort and minimises the effect of longitudinal and transverse loads. The rear suspension comprises a programmeddeflection torsion beam with coil springs. To optimise cornering stability, an anti-roll bar is incorporated as part

FOCUS - NEW RENAULT CLIO

CLIP New Renault Clio also comes with a range of efficient solutions designed to help drivers reduce their fuel consumption and CO2 emissions: • An ‘eco’ mode can be activated at the push of a button to modify the vehicle’s performance characteristics and reduce fuel consumption byup to 10 %.

• The dashboard display’s Driving style indicator (green, yellow,orange) and Gear Shift Indicator help drivers adjust their driving style with a view to achieving fuel consumption savings.

• The Driving eco² function built into Renault R-Link provides a rangeof data aimed at helping drivers to analyse the way they drive and take corrective measures to reduce their fuel consumption.

of the set-up and effective shock absorption is assisted by bump stops that are now made from polyurethane.

New Clio measures 4,062mm in length, 1,732mm in width and has a 2,589mm wheelbase. Front and rear track are wider than those on Clio III, by 34 and 36mm, while the lower centre of gravity provides further handling refinement.

New Clio is approximately 100kg lighter than previousgeneration models, thanks to optimisation work in several areas, including the use of very high elastic limit (VHEL) steel for the body’s superstructure and a smaller fuel tank, the capacity of which has been reduced from 55 to 45 litres.

All versions include standard equipments as the ESC (Electronic Stability Control), AbS, Emergency brake Assist and driver aids as the visual and audible seat belt reminders for all passengers, cruise control and speed limiter a reversing camera and rear parking sensors enable drivers to be aware of their immediate surroundings.

technical specifications new RenaUlt clio

NEW RENAULT CLIO TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

EUROPE ENGINE / GEARBOX Fuel type Type - index French fiscal rating (France only) Depollution standard Type Cubic capacity (cc) Number of cylinders/valves Maximum power kW EEC (hp) At (rpm) Maximum torque Nm EEC At (rpm) Particulate filter Stop&Start and braking energy recovery

1,2 16v 75 D4F 740 4 EURO5 Normally aspirated / multipoint sequential fuel injection 1,149 4 / 16 54 (75) 5,500 107 4,250

ENERGY TCe 90

ENERGY TCe 90 99g

Unleaded petrol or E10 H4Bt 400 5 EURO5

H4Bt 400 4 EURO5

dCi 75

ENERGY dCi 90

ENERGY dCi 90 83g

K9K 612 4 EURO5

Diesel K9K 608 4 EURO5

K9K 608 4 EURO5

Turbo / multipoint sequential fuel injection

Turbo / multipoint sequential fuel injection

898 3 / 12 66 (90) 5,250 135 2,500

1,461 4/8 55 (75) 4,000 200 1,750 yes -

-

yes

66 (90) 4,000 220 1,750 yes yes

GEARBOX Type Speed at 1,000rpm in: 1st gear 2nd gear 3rd gear 4th gear 5th gear

7.00 12.74 18.73 25.34 32.81

Manual - 5 speeds 6.78 12.91 20.48 28.31 38.29

7.23 13.78 21.86 30.23 40.88

Manual - 5 speeds 8.56 16.30 25.86 35.77 48.36

9.63 18.34 29.09 40.22 54.39

9.63 18.34 29.09 40.22 54.39

STEERING Power steering Turning circle between kerbs/between walls (m) Steering wheel turns, lock to lock (some versions may vary)

Electric variable-rate power steering standard 10.6/11 2.71

SUSPENSION Front Rear Front/rear anti-roll bar diameter (mm)

Mac Pherson type with rectangular lower arm and anti-roll bar Programmed-deflection flexible beam and coil springs 22.5mm / incorporated in beam

WHEELS AND TYRES Standard fitment

15’’: 185/65 R15 88T 16’’: 195/55 R16 87H 17’’: 205/45 R17 88V*

15’’: 185/65 R15 88T 16’’: 195/55 R16 87H 17’’: 205/45 R17 88V*

15’’: 185/65 R15 88T 16’’: 195/55 R16 87H 17’’: 205/45 R17 88V*

BRAKING Circuit type A.B.S. Electronic brakeforce distribution Emergency brake assist Hill Start Assist (HSA) ESC Diameter/thickness of vented front discs (mm) Rear: drums (inches)

X Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard 258/22 8-inch drum

8-inch drum with 15- and 16-inch wheels 9-inch vented drum with 17-inch wheels

8-inch drum with 15- and 16-inch wheels 9-inch vented drum with 17-inch wheels

PERFORMANCE CdA Top speed (kph) 0 - 100kph (s) 400m standing start (s) 1,000m standing start (s) Acceleration from 80kph to 120kph in 4th/5th gear (s)

0.744 167 15’’4 19’’8 36’’9 14’’3 / 23’’3

0.670 182 12’’2 18’’2 33’’6 11’’7 / 17’’9

185 13’’ 18’’6 34’’4 14’’4 / 23’’6

168 14’’3 19’’1 35’’8 14’’1 / 21’’0

0.670 178 11’’7 18’’ 33’’5 10’’1 / 13’’5

180 12’’1 18’’3 33’’6 11’’0 / 16’’1

FUEL CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS (homologated in compliance with applicable legislation) CO2 (g/km) Urban cycle (l/100km) Extra-urban cycle (l/100km) Combined cycle (l/100km)

127 7,0 4.7 5.5

104 5.5 3.9 4.5

99 5.3 3.7 4.3

95 4.3 3.2 3.6

90 4.0 3.2 3.4

83 3.6 3.0 3.2

45

45

40

45

45

45

980 603 377 1,563 2,463 524

1,009

CAPACITIES Fuel tank (litres) WEIGHTS (kg) Kerb weight (without options) Front kerb weight Rear kerb weight Gross vehicle Weight (GVW) Gross Train Weight (GTW) Payload ** Maximum braked trailer weight (within limit of GTW) Maximum braked trailer weight Maximum unbraked trailer weight * (Available at November 2012; not available for 1.2 16V 75) ** Payload for versions with minimum equipment

1,009

1,071

631 378 1,588 2,488 519

695 376 1,651 2,551 517

695 376 1,658 2,558 524

1,200 900 525

540

570

MISS OF THE MONTH

PRAGA R1

Praga is beautiful!

Ok, it is a racing car ... but we find this car so seductive!

It absolutely deserves our “Miss of the Month” title.

Praga Cars means the motorsport renewal of a legendary motor car company with over 100 years of history. PRAGA was founded in 1907, and is one of the oldest motor car companies in the Czech Republic.

Before World War II, it was the largest car manufacturer in the-then Czechoslovakia. After the war, due to damage to the plant and the subsequent decisions of the communist government, the production of passenger cars in Pragovka unfortunately ended.

PRAGA subsequently started to specialize in the manufacturing of spare parts for vehicles. In the period 1996 till 2003 PRAGA manufactured motocross and Enduro motorcycles. Two-stroke PRAGA ED 250 succeeded commercially and in racing as well, especially in the USA. Four-stroke ED 430 and ED 610 achieved successful results in the Enduro European Championship.

MISS OF THE MONTH - PRAGA R1

Under the leadership of Petr Ptรกcek, PRAGA commenced to get intensively established in the karting world. Petr Ptรกcek has transformed his passion for karting and racing into the realization of

his vision of the successful penetration of PRAGA into the karting world. Praga Racing Holding is now a unique holding of companies connecting a wide spectrum of racing activities - training of young

pilots, design and manufacturing of karts, racing engines, racing specials, running own racing academy, management of racing teams, and the leasing and rental of racing vehicles. The unification of several

racing brands has created a strong motorsport entity of European significance joining professional, design, educational, driving and racing capabilities of tied cooperating companies.

CLIP

MISS OF THE MONTH - PRAGA R1

IP Karting is a prestigious manufacturer of kart chassis. A comprehensive background in the development and manufacture of all performance categories of karts has brought several world champion titles in various cubatures for this successful brand, over a period of more than 10 years of manufacturing. It can boast of the premium marks OK1 and PRAGA in its portfolio.

Year 2013 shall be a breakthrough in the Holding, not only due to the charismatic innovation of the PRAGA R1 but also because PRAGA Racing has recently launched the development of its own racing engines in PRAGA Motors.

The two seater Praga R1 is 4170mm long, 1800 mm wide, only 995 mm tall with only 590 kilograms dry weight and it’s born around a carbon monocoque reinforced by internal ribs and bulkheads. The cars also shows carbon crumple zones absorbing crash energy at front and side parts. 6 point seat belts, neck restraints, integrated fire extinguisher system, polycarbonate windows and safety tank.

Reasonable acquiring price, long engine service intervals, not high tyre consumption, low prices of spare parts, substantial body resistance against damages are the main characteristics that make the Praga R1 a real “low costs” GT racing car.

AP racing brakes, Hewland transmission, Renault Sport engine, ECU - MoTeC, fuel tank ATL, Koni dumpers, KMP pneumatic paddle shifting, clutch from Sachs racing, OMP extinguisher system are just some of the high profile equipment of the R1.

PRAGA R1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Weight (dry): Dimensions (H x L x W): Wheel base: Wheels & tyres front:

Wheels & tyres rear:

592 Kg 965 x 4144 x 1800 mm 2527 mm Praga, centre locking 15 x 8, with 200/580R15 Dunlop racing tyre Praga, centre locking 16 x 10.5, with 265/605R16 Dunlop racing tyre

BODY AND INTERIOR Construction:

Crashbox:

Body panels:

Rear wing:

Doors: Windows:

Fuel tank:

Pedals & Steering wh:

Seat:

Seat belts:

Comm. System:

Suspensions:

Fire extinguisher:

Light weight and compact, longitudinal mid engine layout Front, rear and carbon fibre honeycombed crashbox complying with FIA rules Quick-release lightweight fibreglass body panels reinforced with carbon & Kevlar ow-drag fine adjustable bi-plane rear wing (carbon fibre optional) Carbon fibre driver and passenger doors Custom made lightweight polycarbonate windows with anti-scratch protection 60 litre foam-filled FIA approved ATL fuel tank located behind the seat Adjustable pedals and 2-way adjustable quick release Cosworth steering wheel Custom made Praga carbon Kevlar racing seat with side head rest FIA approved SCHROTH 6 point seat-belts for use with HANS Built-in PELTOR / YAESU radio communication system (optional) Fully adjustable front and rear suspensions: • KONI 2-way adjustable, mono-tube, easy to adjust • unequal length upper and lower wishbones • CNC aluminum machined adjustable uprights • forged steel centre lock hubs • adjustable anti-roll bars • custom made progressive racing coil springs Mechanically / Electrically-activated fire extinguisher system in engine

DRIVETRAIN Engine: Dampers:

Braking system AP: Clutch:

Gearbox:

Shifting:

Engine management:

Renault Sport Formula 2010 2.0 engine Unique Praga compact bellhousing with dampers Racing brakes with 4-piston calipers Lightweight steel flywheel / competition twin plate ZF Sachs Racing clutch Custom made HEWLAND JFR - six-speed sequential semi-automatic transaxle gearbox, interchangeable gear sets Pneumatic KMP paddleshift system with flat shifts and auto blip ECU Cosworth / Pectel SQ6 with close loop

ENGINE Cylinder / Valves: 4 / 16 Location: Mid, longitudinally mounted Bore / Stroke: 82.7 x 93 mm Displacement: 1998 cm3 Engine Control: System Cosworth / Pectel Rev Limit: 7500RPM

MISS OF THE MONTH

LEXUS LFA

Amazing ... till the end !

It is unusual to celebrate a car at the end of its production cicle … but this is the case of the astonishing Lexus LF, produced in just 500 pieces as a real “chef d’oeuvre”

On 2012 December 14, a white LFA NĂźrburgring Package, the last of the 500 planned LFA supercars, left the dedicated production facility at the Motomachi Plant (Aichi). Production at LFA Works started exactly two years ago, on December 15, 2010, and included a team of around 170 workers involved in parts manufacturing, vehicle assembly and painting. The high performance LFA was produced at the rate of just one unit per day.

Only 500 LFA have been planned for production, all hand-assembled by skilled technicians at a rate of no more than 20 per month. Radical rethink sees LFA switch from aluminium to Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic construction to achieve exceptional dynamic integrity and performance-enhancing light weight construction. The extensive use of this technology accounts for 65% of the LFA’s body-in-white weight, with aluminium alloys comprising the remaining 35%.

At the heart of the LFA lies a bespoke naturally aspirated V10 engine of 4.805 cc., that sets new automotive standards for compact dimensions and lightweight architecture.

MISS OF THE MONTH - LEXUS LFA

CLIP Only 50 from a total LFA production run of 500 feature the track-focused “Nürburgring Package”, enhanced aerodynamic performance, tuned suspension and a maximum power of 420kW/571 DIN hp. “Nürburgring Package” customers will receive Nordschleife tuition and a one year driving pass. Available in Matte Black, Black, White and Orange, the Nürburging Package equipped LFA’s exterior is complimented by a choice of three interior colour schemes – Black and Red, Black and Purple, and all Black. All feature a carbon fibre centre console and door trims, while the carbon fibre bucket seats are trimmed in Alcantara.

With a low 1480kg kerb weight and an explosive 412kW/560 DIN hp, the LFA stepped into the supercar arena with a heady power to weight ratio of 278kW/378DIN hp per tonne. The combination of a high, 12:1 compression ratio, low friction internals and optimised intake and exhaust flow results in the LFA’s powerplant developing an exceptional 85.7kW/117DIN hp per litre, one of the highest specific outputs amongst the current crop of supercars.

Each cylinder features an independent, electronically controlled throttle body to ensure engine intake air takes the shortest and most efficient route. It features prioritised control logic functionality: an innovative system that estimates the intake air volume based on the throttle pedal angle, allowing it to calculate the appropriate fuel injection volume far more quickly than any conventional system. The result is an engine that responds incredibly quickly (the engine can rev from idle to its 9,000rpm redline in just sixtenths of a second) to even the smallest and subtlest inputs from the forged aluminium, floor-mounted throttle.

Also the LFA’s acoustic team studied the unmistakable soundtrack generated by a Formula 1 car at maximum revs, an aweinspiring soundtrack for those both inside and outside of the cabin.

The LFA’s bespoke all-new, six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox drives the rear wheels through a torque-sensing Limited Slip Differential, and is mounted in transaxle layout over the rear axle to achieve an optimal, 48:52 weight distribution. In addition to the traction-enhancing limited slip differential, the LFA transmission also features four driving modes (Auto, Sport, Normal and Wet) actuated by a dash-mounted Mode dial. Featuring specific gearshift programming, each mode has its own engine and brake control logic systems, allowing the driver to select the mode best suited to under-tyre conditions.

Gearshift speeds can be adjusted in seven stages – from approximately 0.15 seconds for intense track work to 1.0 second for smooth cruising – using a Shift Speed Selection dial, logically situated just below the Mode dial. In Auto mode, the shift speed is fixed in the second speed stage for smooth and comfortable gear changes.

The LFA delivers superb dynamic balance in every situation, as the mid-front engine mounting with a rear transaxle layout delivers the ideal 48:52 front-to-rear weight distribution vital for optimal dynamic balance.

Wherever possible, every key component was installed within the wheelbase and located as low possible.

MISS OF THE MONTH - LEXUS LFA

The LFA’s braking system has been precisely tuned to provide a level of high-speed stopping power and anti-fade performance. The two-piece brake discs are made of Carbon Ceramic Material, chosen for its lightweight nature and long service life. Those at the front measure 390mm in diameter, are 34mm thick and are gripped by six-piston, aluminium, opposed monoblock callipers, while the rear discs - 360mm in diameter and 28mm thick-feature four-piston aluminium opposed monoblock callipers.

The LFA rides on a high-performance, double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension layout, developed after extensive work at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, to deliver clear and vital steering and chassis feedback to the driver. Focused on lowering weight wherever possible, the suspension features forged aluminium knuckles and suspension arms to further reduce unsprung weight and maintain high-speed stability, as well as hollow anti-roll bars. The LFA rides on 20-inch forged BBS aluminium wheels shod with Bridgestone S001 tyres 265/35 ZR20 at the front and 305/30 ZR20 profile at the rear.

Sleek, athletic and muscular, the low-slung LFA coupe exudes supercar style from every curve and angle.

The LFA’s clean styling is also free of token fripperies, reflecting both the Lexus approach to uncluttered design and the mechanical purity that lies beneath its composite skin. Its numerous air-intakes and aerodynamic features, for example, fulfil a functional role first and an aesthetic role second.

The LFA’s stunning style is complemented by aerodynamics for optimal drivetrain cooling, highspeed stability and high-speed handling. Extensive aerodynamic wind-tunnel testing has resulted in the LFA’s wind-cheating profile that scores an exceptionally low drag coefficient of just Cd 0.31.

Swinging open the LFA’s doors reveals a low-slung cockpit that has been designed and hand-assembled with the finest materials. The intimate two-seater cabin has been conceived at every stage to put the driver at the centre of the driving equation. The hooded instrument panel takes centre stage. Despite its compact dimensions, its advanced technology enables it to deliver an exceptionally high level of information to the driver in a clear and logical manner.

LEXUS LFA

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Engine: Horsepower: Torque: Injection: Driveline: Transmission:

Max Engine Speed: Front suspension: Rear suspension: Brake system:

Wheels & tires:

Max Speed: Acceleration: Length: Width: Height: Wheelbase: Track front / rear: Kerb weight: Fuel tank capacity:

4.805 liter - V10 72째 V-type 412 kW / 560 PS @ 8700 rpm 480 Nm @ 7000 rpm Electronic Fuel Injection rear-wheel drive 6-speed ASG Automated Sequential Gearbox 9000 rpm double wishbone multi-link four ventilated discs; front: 390 mm; rear: 360 mm front 9.5J x 20, Bridgestone S001 265/35ZR20 95Y; rear 11.5J x 20, Bridgestone S001 305/30ZR20 99Y 325 km/h (201 mph) 0-100 km/h (62 mph) - 3.7 seconds 4.505 m 1.895 m 1.220 m 2.605 m 1.580 / 1.570 m 1480 kg 73 l

THE GREEN SIDE

TESLA

Model S

Tesla Motors was founded in 2003 by a group of intrepid Silicon Valley engineers who set out to prove that electric vehicles could be awesome. After the success of Tesla Roadster, Model S is the next step in the plan to accelerate the world’s transition to electric mobility. With no tailpipe to spew harmful emissions, Tesla vehicles liberate their owners from the petroleum-burning paradigm.

CLIP Model S is now available for in-person customer demonstrations and test drives in Hong Kong, the first location in Asia where customers can drive Model S on public roads.

By the end of 2012, Tesla will has 23 locations in North America and 33 worldwide. Tesla will continue to expand its retail network into 2013, supporting the mission to engage and inform as many people as possible about driving electric.

Customers can reserve a Model S at one of Tesla’s retail stores or online.

THE GREEN SIDE - TESLA MODEL S

At the heart of the Model S is the proven Tesla powertrain, delivering both an excellent range and a thrilling drive experience. With a rigid body structure, nearly 50/50 weight distribution and a remarkably low center of gravity, Model S offers the responsiveness and agility expected from world’s best sports cars while providing the ride quality of a sedan.

The Tesla motor has only one moving piece: the rotor.

As a result, Model S acceleration is instantaneous, like flipping a switch. In 5.6 seconds, Model S is traveling 60 miles per hour, without hesitation and without a

drop of gasoline. Model S Performance takes electric performance to the next level. Equipped with the 85 kilowatt-hour battery and a high performance drive inverter, Model S Performance accelerates to 60 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds. The Model S estimated range at 55mph is 160 miles (40 kwh), 230 miles (60 kwh) and 300 miles (85 kwh).

The Model S suspension system works in harmony with the rigid and light Tesla platform to provide precision handling and optimum comfort. Unencumbered by an engine, the lightweight front suspension optimizes wheel control. The rear multi-link suspension is designed to seamlessly integrate with the powertrain.

Model S is offered with three battery options, each delivering unprecedented range. All three batteries are contained within the same enclosure, integrating with the vehicle in the same way, providing structural, aerodynamic, and handling advantages. All three batteries use automotivegrade lithium-ion cells arranged for optimum energy density, thermal management, and safety.

The battery is a rigid, high-performance structure in its own right. But when married to the state-of-theart body structure, Model S achieves even higher torsional rigidity and a lower center of gravity. The

battery itself is designed for safety. Liquid-cooled, the battery maintains consistent temperatures to prevent cells from overheating. In the event of a crash, the battery structure protects cells from impact and automatically disconnects the power supply.

The Model S body is a state-of-the-art, aluminum-

intensive design. Weight-saving benefits make aluminum a natural choice. Extrusions, stampings, and castings are expertly joined for rigidity and strength.

A rigid and strong structure not only protects you and your passengers, but also contributes to overall control behind the wheel.

THE GREEN SIDE - TESLA MODEL S

The All Glass Panoramic Roof of Model S is more than a sunroof: the entire roof is constructed from lightweight safety glass. With a simple swipe of the Touchscreen, it opens wider than many other sedan’s panoramic roof. On even the hottest days, the innovative glass keeps the cabin comfortable. Behind the wheel, you’ll notice that Tesla has combined meticulous noise engineering with Tesla’s uniquely quiet powertrain to obtain the sound dynamics of a recording studio. The gem of the interior is the 17” touchscreen. It puts rich content at your fingertips and provides wi-fi or mobile connectivity.

TESLA MODEL S TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

CLIP USA pricing

Engine: 40 kWh microprocessor controlled,

lithium-ion battery, Three phase,

four pole AC induction motor

with copper rotor Injection: sequential gasoline direct injection Driveline: rear-wheel drive,

electronic stability control,

traction control Transmission: single speed fixed gear Front suspension: double wishbone Rear suspension: double wishbone Brake system: ABS; four ventilated discs;

front: 355 x 32 mm;

rear: 365 x 28 mm Wheels & tires: 19’’ aluminum alloy wheels,

Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 245/45R19 Length: 4.978 m Width: 2.189 Height: 1.435 m Wheelbase: 2.959 m Track front / rear: 1.661 / 1.699 m Weight: 2107 kg

CLASSIC

WORLD’S OLDEST FORD VEHICLE RETURNS HOME

Bill Ford with the Model A 1903 recently purchased

Oldest surviving Ford production car, a 1903 Model A (recently purchased at auction by Bill Ford) has been unveiled to kick off the 150th anniversary celebration of Henry Ford’s birth.

Model A was the first product of Ford Motor Company, which launched June 16, 1903

CLASSIC - 150 YEARS HENRY FORD

Henry Ford founded Ford Motor Company on June 16, 1903 and one month later, his cash reserves were less than $250. In short, the company needed a doctor.

Interestingly enough, Dr. E. Pfennig of Chicago was one of three customers who came to the rescue.

A much-needed cash infusion of $1,320 arrived on July 13, 1903, keeping Ford Motor Company afloat.

This amount included Dr. Pfennig’s full payment and deposits from the two other customers.

Dr. Pfennig’s Model A was shipped to him on July

28, 1903, from the plant on Mack Avenue. The 1903 Ford Model A had a two-cylinder engine producing 8 horsepower and displacing 100 cubic inches. It could reach 30 mph on smooth roads, which were rare.

Only one of the three Model A cars sold on July 13, 1903, remains and Executive Chairman Bill Ford recently purchased it at auction. The announcement of the purchase and its return to the Ford family kicked off the yearlong celebration of the 150th anniversary of the birth of Henry Ford.

CLIP Since the company was founded in 1903, Ford has led the industry with innovations such as the Model T, which helped foster the world’s love for affordable mobility.

In its first half century as a company, Ford grew alongside the driving public, producing its 50 millionth vehicle – a 1959 Ford Galaxie – in slightly more than 50 years. In the five decades since, Ford has produced more than 300 million additional vehicles.

Bill Ford’s 1903 Model A is a red Rear Entry Tonneau, car No. 3 and chassis No. 30. Prior to him acquiring it, the vehicle had only five previous owners in its 109year existence. The car was bought initially by Herbert L. McNary, a butter maker from Britt, Iowa. Records show that McNary put down a $170 deposit on the $850 car. Harry E. Burd, a collector, was the next owner. His research led him to believe this example was car No. 3 and chassis No. 30. He sold it in 1961 to a Swiss Ford dealer, who displayed the Model A in Cologne, Germany, at Ford’s European Center.

Burd then bought back the Model A in 2001. It was purchased by John O’Quinn in 2007, who was the final owner before Bill Ford.

The 1903 Model A sits on a wheelbase of 72 inches and weighs about 1,250 pounds. About 1,700 were produced over 15 months. It was praised in the August 1903 issue of Cycle and Automobile Trade Journal, which reported the following: “When in motion there is a light purring of the gear to be heard if one listens for it; there is absolutely no vibration to be felt; the riding is perfectly smooth and agreeable.

The wagon is, of course, under entire control, and is extremely handy in a crowded street, and, taken all in all, this latest of American wagons offered leaves very little indeed to be desired.

There will undoubtedly be advances in the art, but there will never be any wagon much more comfortable for its passengers than the Ford, and the machine work is excellent, everything being finished and secured in a workmanlike manner.

The Ford Company finishes the bodies itself, and the external appearance is extremely good”.

FORD MODEL A TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Body: Wheelbase: Wheels: Tires: Engine: Displacement: Transmission: Gasoline tank:

Runabout or tonneau 72 inches 29 inches diameter with artillery pattern 3-inch double tube Two cylinders producing 8 horsepower 100 cubic inches Two speeds Under seat, 5-gallon capacity

Henry Ford driving 999 race car

RACING

by Niccolò Gargiulo

UP TO THE L

The Daytona 24 Hours is one of the most famous motorspotr races in the world. It is the “classic” race that kick the motorsport season off and attracts a solid line-up of international stars. In the past Formula One stars Dan Gurney, Pedro Rodriguez and Phil Hill won the race in its early years. This year’s edition saw one of the most spectacular endings, with three cars battling for victory till the end and finishing within one minute on the lead lap.

LAST MINUTE

RACING - DAYTONA 24 HOURS

The start of the 2013 Daytona 24 Hours

This year an impressive 57 car field took part in the Daytona 24 Hours in late January. Among the participants were 16 drivers with Formula 1 experience together with other big names from the American Le Mans Series, NASCAR and IndyCar. Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates was clearly the team to beat throughout the whole week. A couple teams came close to doing just that over the final few hours of the twice-around-the-clock race around the 3.56-mile Daytona International Speedway road course.

In the end, however, the No. 01 BMW/Riley team of Scott Pruett, Memo Rojas, Juan Pablo Montoya and Charlie Kimball, after claiming the pole position, gave Chip Ganassi its fifth victory in 10 attempts at the Rolex 24. In the process, Pruett joined Hurley Haywood – who served as the event’s grand marshal – as the only drivers to claim five overall Rolex 24 victories.

Despite the strength of the No. 01 car, the Daytona Prototype lead changed hands six times over the final 90 minutes between Montoya, Max Angelelli in the No. 10 Velocity Worldwide Corvette DP and AJ Allmendinger, whose No. 60 Michael Shank Racing team rallied all the way back from a seven- lap deficit early in the race.

Garcia, Westbrook, Taylor, Gavin - CORVETTE DP Balzan, Pier Guidi, Frezza, Beretta FERRARI 458

A dramatic final hour saw both Montoya and Angelelli try to stretch their fuel loads to the finish, while Allmendinger was effectively removed from contention for the victory with an unscheduled pit stop after contact with Joao Barbosa in the No. 9 Action Express Racing Corvette DP. Montoya and the Ganassi team blinked first as Montoya surrendered the lead to Angelelli when the No. 01 came to pit lane for a splash with seven minutes to go.

Angelelli came into the pits on the next lap and moved Montoya back to the front in a race-record 77th lead change.

The Colombian crossed the stripe 21.922 seconds ahead of Angelelli, who teamed with Jordan Taylor and Ryan Hunter-Reay in the No. 10 machine. Allmendinger and co-drivers Ozz Negri, John Pew, Justin Wilson and Marcos Ambrose placed third in the No. 60.

Allmendinger, Negri, Pew and Wilson were the race’s defending champions.

The GT race came down to a battle between European luxury manufacturers Audi, Ferrari and Porsche. Similar to the action in DP, the GT race also saw a number of lead changes over the final hours and fuel concerns coming to the checkered flag.

Angelelli, Taylor, Hunter-Reay - CORVETTE DP

Edwards, Liddell, Magnussen, Milner CHEVY CAMARO Dixon, Franchitti, Hand, McMurray RILEY-BMW

RACING - DAYTONA 24 HOURS

Frisselle, Piquet, Fittipaldi, Barbosa - CORVETTE DP

Papis, Segal, la Vilander, Fisichel FERRARI 458

Kauffman, Aguas, Waltrip, Bowyer FERRARI 458

Winners of the GX Class Norman, Lewis, Donohue, Canache PORSCHE CAYMAN

RACING - DAYTONA 24 HOURS

Filipe Albuquerque drove the No. 24 Alex Job Racing WeatherTech Audi R8 into the GT lead for the final time with a little more than 40 minutes remaining. He went on to win by 1.476 seconds ahead of Rene Rast in the No. 52 Audi Sport Customer Racing/APR Motorsport Audi R8. Albuquerque and co-drivers Oliver Jarvis, Edoardo Mortara and Dion von Moltke gave Audi its first victory in GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series competition. The Ferrari 458 of Emil Assentato, Nick Longhi, Anthony Lazzaro and Mark Wilkins took third in the GT class.

Bellarosa-Mayer-Ardagna-Charouz-Hartley RILEY-FORD

CLIP The production-based GX class was added to feature cars and technologies not currently involved in the Rolex Series.

Rules are being developed to allow for the exploration of a wide variety of alternative technologies and alternative fuels.

This could include turbocharged engines; fuels other than gasoline, such as clean diesels; and hybrid power-trains.

Albuquerque-Mortara Jarvis-Von Moltke AUDI R8

RACING - DAYTONA 24 HOURS

CLIP GRAND-AM Road Racing was established in 1999 to return stability to major league sports car road racing in North America, and began competition with the 2000 running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona. Last September, the organization announced a historic merger with the American Le Mans Series. Both groups will run their traditional schedules in 2013, with the combined and rebranded organization debuting with the 2014 Rolex 24 At Daytona.

Assentato, Lazzaro, Longhi, Wilkins FERRARI 458

Allmendinger, Am brose, Negri, Pew, Wilson RILEY-FORD

RACING - DAYTONA 24 HOURS

Daytona 24 Hours overall winner Pruett, Kimball, Montoya, Rojas - RILEY-BMW

DAYTONA 24 HOURS FINAL RESULTS 1 - Pruett-Kimball-Montoya-Rojas (Riley-BMW) - Chip Ganassi Racing 709 laps

in 24.00’37”699 2 - Angelelli-Hunter-Reay-Taylor (Corvette DP) - VelocityWW 21”922 3 - Allmendinger-Ambrose-Negri-Pew-Wilson (Riley-Ford) - Michael Shank Racing 55”585 4 - Barbosa-Frisselle-Rockenfeller (Corvette DP) - Action Express Racing 1 lap 5 - Garcia-Gavin-Taylor-Westbrook (Corvette DP) - Spirit of Daytona Racing 12 laps 6 - Bourdais-Dalziel-McNish-Popow (Riley-Ford) - Starworks 13 laps 7 - Fogarty-Gidley-Gurney-Law (Corvette DP) - Bob Stallings Racing 14 laps 8 - Fittipaldi-Frisselle-Nasr-Piquet (Corvette DP) - Action Express Racing 21 laps 9 - Albuquerque-Mortara-Jarvis-Von Moltke (Audi R8) - AJR 31 laps 10 - Baas-Basseng-Rast-Stippler (Audi R8) - APR 31 laps 11 - Assentato-Lazzaro-Longhi-Wilkins (Ferrari 458) - AIM 31 laps 12 - Balzan-Frezza-Pier Guidi-Beretta (Ferrari 458) - Scuderia Corsa Michelotto 31 laps 13 - Armindo-Lally-Lietz-Potter (Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) - Magnus Racing 31 laps 14 - Bleekemolen-Faulkner-Holzer-MacNeil (Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) - Alex Job Racing 31 laps 15 - Biela-Haase-Plumb-Winkelhock (Audi R8) - RumBum 32 laps 16 - Aguas-Bowyer-Kauffman-Waltrip (Ferrari 458) - AF Waltrip 32 laps 17 - Brown-Hedlund-Sharp-Van Overbeek (Ferrari 458) - Extreme Speed 36 laps 18 - Baldwin-Burtin-Farnbacher-Ragginger-Renauer (Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) - Burtin Racing 37 laps 19 - Bachler-Maassen-Seefried-Snow-Snow (Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) - Snow/Wright 41 laps 20 - Bell-Empringham-Farano-Figge-Lacey (Audi R8) - APR 42 laps 21 - Cameron-Nonnamaker-Pagenaud (Riley-BMW) - Team Sahlen 45 laps 22 - Davis-Keen-Lieb-Sellers (Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) - Brumos Racing 46 laps 23 - Cole-Dumoulin-Phipps-Skeen-Vess (Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) - Park Place Motorsports 52 laps 24 - Boden-Carter-Espenlaub-Plumb-Putnam (Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) - Magnus Racing 53 laps 25 - Long-Hart-Lindsey-Pumpelly (Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) - Park Place Motorsports 56 laps 26 - Canache-Donohue-Lewis-Norman (Porsche Cayman) - Napleton Racing 74 laps 27 - Camarillo-Fuentes-Peralta-Perez (Mazda RX8) - Racers Edge Motorsports 75 laps 28 - Auberlen-Della Lana-Johnson-Martin-Said (BMW M3) - Turner Motorsports 78 laps 29 - Collins-Fogg-Haacker-Walsh (Porsche 911 GT3 Cup) - Truspeed Motorsports 82 laps 30 - Clay-O’Young-Rogers-Thomas-Thompson (Porsche Cayman) - Bullet Racing 84 laps

CORPORATE NEWS

North America United States 2013 Ram 1500: North American Truck / Utility of the Year The new Ram 1500 has been named 2013 North American Truck/Utility of the Year by a panel of automotive experts. The award is unique and considered by many to be one of the world’s most prestigious based on its diverse mix of 49 automotive journalists from the U.S. and Canada who serve as the voting jurors. The winners were announced at a news conference at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

“For the Ram Truck Brand, this ranks as one of the

Europe / Asia Germany / Japan BMW and Toyota sign binding agreements BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation are pursuing their successful strategic long-term cooperation in the field of sustainable mobility by signing binding agreements aimed at long-term collaboration between the two companies for the joint development of a fuel cell system, joint development of architecture and

proudest days in our history,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico, Chrysler Group LLC. “Every truck-maker aspires to win the North American Truck/Utility of the Year. I tip my hat to the folks who worked behind the scenes to make the 2013 Ram 1500 a technological triumph.”

This is the 20th year of the awards. The Ram has won North American Truck of the Year honors just once before: in the award’s inaugural year 1994. components for a sports vehicle, and joint research and development of lightweight technologies. These agreements follow a memorandum of understanding signed in June 2012.

Furthermore, BMW and Toyota also signed a binding agreement to commence collaborative research on lithium-air batteries, a post-lithium-battery solution. This agreement marks the second phase of collaborative research into next-generation lithiumion battery cells that commenced in March 2012.

The companies also agreed to set-up a feasibility study to define a joint platform concept for a mid-size sports vehicle that is to be completed by the end of 2013.

Europe / Asia Italy / Japan

Asia / Europe South Korea / Germany

Mazda and Fiat sign agreement for new Alfa Romeo Roadster

Hyundai building new vehicle test centre at Nurburgring

Further to the joint announcement of May 23, 2012, Mazda Motor Corporation and Fiat Group Automobiles announced the signing of the Final Agreement which will see Mazda produce an open-top two-seater sports car for Fiat’s Alfa Romeo brand at its Hiroshima, Japan, plant starting from 2015.

The new Alfa Romeo roadster will be developed for the global market, and will be based on the architecture of the next generation Mazda MX-5.

The agreement foresees for both Mazda and Fiat to develop two differentiated, distinctly styled, iconic and brand-specific roadsters featuring rear-wheel drive. The Mazda and Alfa Romeo variants will each be powered by specific proprietary engines unique to each brand.

Hyundai has revealed plans for a new vehicle test centre, situated at the famous Nurburgring track in Germany. The new facility, which represents a 5,5 million euro investment, reaffirms the brand’s commitment to developing its credentials as a top European carmaker. Tests carried out at the new facility will be used by engineers at the company’s existing R&D centre in Russelsheim, Germany, to improve the quality and driving performance of Hyundai’s European - designed vehicles. In 2012, almost 95% of the 444.000 Hyundai cars sold in Europe were designed, engineered and tested in Russelsheim, including the best-sellers i30, ix35 and i40. The 3050 m² building’s location was chosen for its direct access to the famous race track, dubbed ‘The Green Hell’ due to its challenging nature.

Just as with Hyundai’s re-entry into the WRC series, tracktesting at Nürburgring will enable Hyundai to develop the driving dynamics, reliability and durability of its vehicles.

Asia / Europe China / France Citroen DS has its own network in China In 2012 Citroen launched the DS3, DS4 and DS5 in China with CAPSA, the brand’s second joint venture in the country. Driven by the ambitious rollout of its own network, the DS line is perceived as a brand in itself by Chinese customers, which is a considerable advantage in the world’s secondbiggest premium car market.

For Citroen CEO Frédéric Banzet, “The local requirement to set up for business by forming joint ventures, each one with its own specific network, has turned into a fantastic opportunity for Citroen with CAPSA. We can now consolidate the DS line’s premium positioning by distributing our models through a dedicated network”.

The first DS Store was inaugurated in Nanjing on

20 June 2012. Six months later, no less than 25 sales outlets covered the major cities in China, from Beijing and Shanghai to Guangzhou and Shenzhen. And there is no letting up in 2013, which will see the arrival of no fewer than 70 sales outlets in 55 cities.

North America United States Viper back at Conner Avenue

CORPORATE NEWS

After nearly two years in hibernation, the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit is rumbling to life as it opens its doors to produce the next generation SRT Viper.

With the decision made to reopen Conner, the team went to work beginning in the fall of 2011 to implement World Class Manufacturing (WCM), Fiat’s production system that Chrysler adopted when the two companies joined forces in June 2009. WCM is a methodology that makes employee safety the number one priority, focusing on eliminating waste, increasing productivity, improving quality, and restoring dignity to the employees.

As part of the journey, every inch of the nearly 400,000 square-foot facility has been refurbished and improved, including the lobby, where a historical Viper timeline now hangs, to the 14 restrooms, to the shop floor, which is now hospital-clean, bright and more organized to increase the efficiency of each operation.

In preparation for the launch of the next generation Viper, every job on the line was re-balanced so the daily build could increase by four vehicles to a total of 12 per day. As a result, each operator has between 100-200 elements to complete during each 32 minute cycle.

Oceania Australia Holden Volt electric vehicle joins national Telstra fleet Holden’s long range electric vehicle, the Volt, has joined the ranks of one of Australia’s largest corporations, with leading telecommunications company Telstra recruiting the vehicle to its fleet. Telstra took possession of the highly decorated electric vehicle, the first of four to join its fleet. It marks the first time that an electric car has been used by Telstra as a company vehicle.

Winner of the Green Innovation Award in the 2012 Drive Car of the Year Awards, the Holden Volt is the first car of its kind to go on sale in Australia. It features unique range extension technology that offers an electric range of up to 87 kilometres that can be extended to a total range of over 600 kilometres through an on board petrol generator that maintains the charge in the battery.

National Manager of Telstra Fleet Brendan Stooke said Telstra was keen to add the Volt to its fleet to give the organisation a greater understanding of electric car usage and performance.

Asia Thailand / Japan Mazda to build transmission plant in Thailand Mazda Motor Corporation will construct a transmission plant with an annual production capacity of approximately 400,000 units in the Chonburi Province of Thailand representing an investment of 26 billion yen. Mazda has decided to establish the plant in order to respond to increasing demand for models featuring SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and to strengthen its global production footprint.

Operations at the new plant will commence in the first half of the fiscal year ending March 2016.

The new transmission plant will be located approximately five kilometers north of Mazda’s joint venture production facility, and will supply SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmissions for SKYACTIV models. In accordance with this decision Mazda will establish a new affiliate company in Thailand.

Asia Malaysia /Japan

Daihatsu to strenghten manufacturing base in Malaysia

South America / Asia Chile / China

Daihatsu announced today that it will build a new vehicle manufacturing plant in Malaysia, through the local holding company “Perodua” in which it has a stake, and operate such plant by a new company to be established. As the Malaysian government is working to develop a global competitive automotive industry in preparation for future market liberalization, Perodua and Daihatsu plan to manufacture fuel-efficient, affordable compact cars at the new plant, which will act as a model for manufacturing high-quality motor vehicles at low cost.

North America United States

Chery Fulwin honored as “Best Chinese Auto Model” in Chile Recently, “2012 Best Chinese Auto Model”, organized by Bolido, an authoritative auto magazine in Chile, has been unveiled. As a result, Chery Fulwin (Fulwin II in China) outperformed a host of strong rivals to be honored as the most popular Chinese model among Chilean consumers in 2012, winning the “2012 Best Chinese Auto Model” contest organised by Bolido, an authoritative auto magazine in Chile. Since its launch in Chile, Fulwin has drawn close attention and gained great favor from local consumers, with nearly 2,000 units sold.

Fulwin was designed by an Italian master with the bionic concept including V-shaped whale-type front face, which is fashionable and kinetic. It Carries ACTECO 1.5L engine, one of “China’s ten best engines” with the 2,527mm large-wheelbase body and the hatchback design creating a 450-1000L large storage space and volatile space combinations.

Cadillac named North American Car of the Year The 2013 Cadillac ATS luxury sport sedan was named the winner of the North American Car of the Year award, during a press conference at the 25th annual North American International Auto Show “This is a very meaningful honor for the entire Cadillac team, especially the men and women who build the ATS in Lansing, Michigan, and our dedicated and talented designers and engineers,” said Bob Ferguson, GM vice president, global Cadillac.

The new ATS is the lightest car in its class with a unique architecture designed for nimble driving performance.

A compact sport sedan, it is offered in rear- and allwheel drive versions, with a choice of powerful and efficient four- and six-cylinder engines. It recently received a 5-Star overall crash test rating in the New Car Assessment Program run by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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