Purpose

I will try my best to provide detailed info on various cars and what is like to live with them, I have already produced a few for Jaguar-car-forums, I will do my best to be unbiased, but it will be hard for some cars. I will re-produce press releases and copy from other motoring news.
Showing posts with label Twin Turbocharged. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Twin Turbocharged. Show all posts

Friday, 1 December 2017

The All-New Bentley Continental GT is launched with a First Edition model, I want one.

  • Exclusive First Edition model is the ultimate expression of legendary Grand Tourer
  • Specification curated by the award-winning Bentley design team
  • High specification includes Bentley Rotating Display
  • Unique Dual Veneers available as standard, including exclusive Grand Black
  • Mulliner Driving Specification, City Specification and Touring Specification help create the most luxurious Grand Tourer ever
Bentley Motors has created an exclusive First Edition of the all-new Continental GT. This ultimate expression of the Grand Tourer represents the pinnacle of Bentley craftsmanship, handcrafted and designed in Great Britain.
Exquisitely appointed, the interior specification of the Bentley Continental GT First Edition has been painstakingly curated by the Bentley design team. The new model combines all the finest features available on the third generation Continental GT, brought together to create the most luxurious Grand Tourer ever produced.
A stunning showcase of technology and design, the First Edition includes the unique Bentley Rotating Display. This system enables the driver to seamlessly switch between three different fascia panels to suit the mood of the cabin. 
The default 12.3” touchscreen can be substituted with a more classically styled instrument display if preferred; one that features three analogue dials. When the engine is off, the third veneer-only face is displayed for an uninterrupted flow of wood right across the dashboard.
Customers can choose from one of four unique Dual Veneers for the dashboard fascia. These beautiful wood options include Tamo Ash, Liquid Amber, Dark Stained Madrona and Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus, always combined with Grand Black, which is exclusive to the First Edition.
These exceptional finishes help create the impression of even more space inside an already sumptuous cabin, and complement a striking interior design that is beautifully enhanced by mood lighting and illuminated sills emblazoned with ‘Bentley’, visible when opening the doors.
Mirroring the performance of the new Grand Tourer’s 6.0-litre, twin turbocharged W12 TSI engine; the Mulliner Driving Specification is also included with the First Edition. This driver-focused collection adds drilled alloy foot pedals, jewel-finish oil and filler caps, and unique, 22” wheels, available in bright paint, black and hand polished or fully polished finishes.
The specification is complemented by diamond-in-diamond quilt pattern on seats, door panels and rear quarter panels, all featuring a unique contrast stitch only available with the First Edition.
Other key additions to the ultimate list of standard equipment include the City Specification and Touring Specification, with features such as park assist, pedestrian warning and traffic sign recognition. The Bentley 650 watts audio system can be upgraded with either the Bang & Olufsen system of 1500 watts, or for the true audiophile the top-of-the-range Naim audio system with 2200 watts.
Discreet Union Flag First Edition badging throughout the interior and exterior of the Continental GT identify the car’s exceptional credentials, in addition to a unique Union Flag tread plate plaque.

Tuesday, 4 July 2017

The new McLaren 570S Spider combines the excellence of the coupe, but with the roof down.

  • All the high-performance dynamic attributes and refinement of 570S Coupé with the added exhilaration of open-air driving
  • Third bodystyle in McLaren’s Sports Series product family, alongside Coupé and GT
  • World debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed, UK, June 29 – July 2, 2017
  • Retractable hardtop using technology proven in McLaren 650S and 675LT Spiders
  • Just 46kg weight premium over 570S Coupé and structural rigidity unchanged
  • Roof takes just 15 seconds to open or close, at vehicle speeds of up to 40km/h (25mph)
  • Electrically operated, glazed rear window/wind deflector
  • Unique-in-class combination of carbon fibre construction, mid-engined drivetrain layout and McLaren dihedral doors
  • Extended rear spoiler is 12mm higher than Coupé’s to compensate change in body shape
  • 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged McLaren V8 engine with seven-speed, seamless-shift gearbox produces a class-leading 570PS and 600Nm
  • Acceleration from 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in 2 seconds and 328km/h (204mph) top speed are identical to 570S Coupé. Top speed with roof down is 315km/h (196mph)
  • First 400 Spiders built will be launch edition models, following success of 720S launch edition
  • Available to order now, priced from £164,750 (UK)
The new McLaren 570S Spider combines the exceptional dynamism and refinement of the 570S Coupé with the extra exhilaration of open-air motoring.  Hand-assembled in Woking, England, the 570S Spider is the most attainable McLaren Spider ever and brings supercar attributes such as carbon-fibre construction, a mid-engined layout and extreme performance for the first time to the luxury sports convertible segment.
The two-seat, rear-wheel drive 570S Spider is the third bodystyle in McLaren’s Sports Series portfolio, lining up alongside the Coupé and the GT.  Compared to the Coupé, the 570S Spider adds a neatly integrated, retractable hardtop that when lowered delivers an even more immersive and exhilarating driving experience.  The two-piece roof – which is engineered using technology proven in the McLaren 650S and 675LT Spider models – is constructed of lightweight composite panels and creates a purposeful, sleek appearance whether raised or lowered.  
Most importantly, there are no performance compromises versus the 570S Coupé, with the Spider maintaining the same electrifying pace, dynamic excellence and impressive refinement.  The carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis at the heart of all Sports Series cars does not suffer any reduction in strength or stiffness in convertible guise, or require any additional structural actions. This has allowed McLaren engineers to design and develop the 570S Spider without concerns that are potentially a significant issue with steel or aluminium structures.
“The McLaren 570S Spider is the most attainable McLaren Spider to date and adds yet another dimension to the McLaren Sports Series family.  This is a convertible without compromise; its mid-engined layout and carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis guarantee the same thrilling dynamic performance and exceptional driver involvement enjoyed in a 570S Coupé, but with the added attraction of a retractable hard-top that delivers the extra exhilaration of roof-down motoring.”
Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive

Electrically operated from the driver’s seat using one simple control, the roof folds effortlessly to stow beneath a beautifully crafted tonneau cover that rises automatically to accommodate the lowered panels and returns to its closed position with the assistance of soft-close technology.   The roof can be opened or closed in just 15 seconds, at vehicle speeds of up to 40km/h (25mph).
A glazed wind deflector can be electrically raised or lowered at the push of a button, providing further versatility with the roof up or down.  The deflector reduces wind-buffeting when the roof is down and if desired can be lowered when the roof is raised to allow additional sound and fresh air into the cabin. Owners wanting to enjoy even more of the distinctive exhaust note of the new Spider can specify an optional sports system that features an ESG to channel exhaust sound towards the cabin, via the area beneath the tonneau cover.
The retractable hardtop is designed to withstand the severest conditions and is significantly more weather- and fade-resistant than fabric, yet with its operating mechanism adds just 46kg to the weight of the Spider; this is the only variance in weight between the new convertible and the 570S Coupé.
Supercar performance
The combination of lightweight carbon fibre construction and an incredibly potent 3.8-litre, twin-turbocharged McLaren V8 engine, means that the new 570S Spider is both more powerful and lighter than comparable convertibles, with an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 419PS-per-tonne (lightest dry weight).
Positioned behind the driver, the twin-turbocharged McLaren M838TE engine produces 570PS at 7,400rpm and torque of 600Nm between 5,000rpm and 6,500rpm.  In combination with a rapid yet smooth seven-speed seamless-shift gearbox featuring Launch Control technology, the result is a luxury sports convertible with supercar acceleration from standstill to 100km/h (62mph) in 3.2 seconds and to 200km/h (124mph) in just 9.6 seconds. 
Top speed is 328km/h (204mph) with the roof in place – identical to the 570S Coupé – and even with the roof lowered, the new Spider can reach 315km/h (196mph).  Complementing this extreme performance is a stop-start system that contributes to overall efficiency; the 570S Spider returns official fuel economy of 10.7 litres/100km (26.6mpg) in the NEDC combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 249g/km.
Exceptional body control
McLaren’s new Spider employs racecar-style, double-wishbone suspension all-round, with steel springs, twin-valve adaptive dampers and anti-roll bars calibrated to the same exacting specification as the 570S Coupé.  Body control is exceptional and the overall drive incredibly pure and rewarding, while retaining impressive comfort. Accessing the Active Dynamics Panel adds another level of personal choice, allowing the driver to choose from Normal, Sport or Track modes, for progressively softer or firmer suspension.  This versatility ensures that the Spider is as at ease in everyday use as it is on a race track.
Electro-hydraulically assisted power steering, carbon-ceramic brakes and Pirelli P ZERO™ CORSA tyres are standard, while the latest chassis software both enhances the driving experience and increases safety.  Developed originally for Formula 1™, Brake Steer aids cornering and reduces understeer by subtly applying braking force to the inside rear wheel as the driver turns in to a corner.   Performance Traction Control calibrated by McLaren provides precise control in extreme situations, while the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system includes a ‘Dynamic’ mode with reduced intervention and increased ‘driftability’, allowing drivers to enjoy the 570S Spider’s dynamic potential with confidence.
Tailored design
The breath-taking body design is enhanced by a rear spoiler, finished in Dark Palladium grey (a visible carbon fibre finish is available at additional cost via McLaren Special Operations) and 12mm taller than the rear spoiler of the 570S Coupé. The higher spoiler provides additional downforce to offset the aerodynamic changes resulting from the Spider having a different rear upper body design, ensuring exceptional aerodynamic balance overall that is the equal of the Coupé.
Designed around a perfect driving position that puts the driver at the centre of the action, the sophisticated cabin blends exceptional levels of craftsmanship, quality and technology; hand-stitched leather on the seats, door casings, dashboard and centre console sits side-by-side with a 10-inch TFT main instrument cluster and a centrally mounted, 7-inch IRIS touchscreen through which climate control and infotainment functionality are managed.
Customers can choose from standard six-way-adjustable or optional eight-way adjustable electric memory seats, with luxurious Nappa leather or performance-oriented Alcantara® trim available at additional cost. Lightweight carbon-fibre-shelled sports seats, the same as those fitted to the McLaren P1™, can also be specified.
Three new exterior colours celebrate the Spider’s introduction, with Curacao Blue, Vega Blue and Sicilian Yellow joining the existing Sports Series palette and giving Spider customers a choice of 20 colours in total.  The new hues dramatically showcase the complex forms of the aluminium bodywork and unique-in-class dihedral doors, particularly when combined for added visual impact with an optional Dark Palladium grey contrast finish on the roof, windscreen pillars and rear buttresses.
An all-new, 10-spoke lightweight forged alloy wheel design (19-inch front, 20-inch rear) has been crafted as an option for the new 570S Spider. For further differentiation, a new brake caliper colour, Liquid Black, is also available.
Available to order now from more than 80 McLaren retailers worldwide, each 570S Spider is hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre in Woking, England.
The new McLaren 570S Spider will make its public debut on 29th June at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, West Sussex, UK and the first cars are scheduled to be delivered to customers in August.
McLaren 570S Spider
Technical specification
Engine configuration
M838TE engine, 3.8 litre twin-turbo V8, 3,799cc
Drivetrain layout
Longitudinal mid-engined, RWD
Power PS (bhp/kW @ rpm
570 (562/419) @ 7,500
Torque Nm (lbs ft) @ rpm
600 (443) @ 5,000-6,500
Transmission
7-Speed seamless-shift gearbox (SSG)
Suspension
Independent adaptive dampers, dual wishbones with Normal, Sport and Track modes
Steering
Electro-hydraulic; power-assisted
Brakes
Carbon Ceramic Discs (F: 394mm R: 380mm) with aluminium brake calipers (6-piston front; 4-piston rear)
Wheels (inches)
Front: 8J x 19; Rear: 10J x 20
Tyres
F: 225/35 R19   R: 285/35 R20
Length, mm (inches)
4,530 (178.3)
Wheelbase, mm (inches)
2,670 (105)
Height, mm (inches)
1,202 (47.3)
Width, with mirrors, mm (inches)
2,095 (82.5)
Width, mirrors folded, mm (inches)
2,045 (80.5)
Width, without mirrors, mm (inches)
1,930 (76)
Track (to contact patch centre), mm (inches)

Front: 1,673 (65.9); Rear: 1,618 (63.7)

Lightest dry weight, kg (lbs)
1,359 (2,895)
DIN Kerb weight, kg (lbs) [fluids + 90% fuel]
1,498 (3,302.5)
Luggage capacity (litres)
Front: 150 l; Tonneau: 52 l


Performance data*


ACCELERATION
0 -60mph
3.1 seconds
0-100 km/h (0-62mph)
3.2 seconds
0-200 km/h (0-124mph)
9.6 seconds
0-400 m / ¼ mile
11.0 seconds
Maximum speed (roof raised/roof lowered)
328 km/h (204 mph)/ 315 km/h (196 mph)
200 – 0 km/h (124mph – 0) braking
5.3 seconds/130 metres
100 – 0 km/h (62mph – 0) braking
3.2 seconds/32 metres

EFFICIENCY
CO2 emissions [NEDC]
249 g/km
Fuel consumption – (EU l/100 km/UK MPG)
Combined
Urban
Extra urban

10.7 l /100km (26.4 mpg**)
17.2 l /100km (16.6 mpg**)
7.4 l /100km (38.4 mpg**)
*All figures subject to confirmation.                       **MPG (UK) is not a homologation requirement therefore converted figure

Friday, 30 June 2017

The DB11 from Aston Martin is the first model to take the Mercedes-AMG V8 engine.

  • DB11 now available with choice of twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 or 5.2-litre V12 engines
  • New V8 delivers 503bhp and 675Nm with a CO2 figure of 230g/km1
After its successful global introduction in 2016, Aston Martin’s definitive GT - the acclaimed DB11 - is now available with a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Perfectly complementing the DB11’s existing 5.2-litre twin turbocharged V12 engine, this new powerplant has provided the opportunity to reveal more of the DB11’s sporting character, while expanding its global appeal with a combination of exceptional performance and improved efficiency.
Producing 510PS (503BHP) and 675Nm of torque, the V8 engine’s potency is beyond question, propelling the DB11 from 0-62mph in just 4.0sec and on to a top speed of 187mph. This exceptional performance is matched by impressive efficiency: CO2 emissions of 230g/km1 and an EU Combined fuel economy figure of 28.5mpg1. This new V8 derivative brings further significant benefits in markets where car taxation policy is structured around engine capacity, such as China.
Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer, Max Szwaj, commented: “As an engineer I find the DB11 a fascinating car. One with great depth of character and ability. Of course the V12-engined variant is an icon - an ultimate, if you like, but the V8 is very much its own car. 
One with a distinct and carefully crafted character that’s truly seductive. It has been hugely rewarding to put our stamp on this new engine - both in the way it sounds and performs - and to use its impressive attributes as the impetus to reveal a little more of the DB11’s sporting character.
“To be able to offer not one, but two exceptional GT cars is terrific for Aston Martin and our customers. I’m particularly proud that this car is the first to receive an engine supplied by our technical partner, Mercedes-AMG. Not least because thanks to the nature of our relationship with AMG we have been given complete freedom to tailor this exceptional power unit so that it meets the particular needs and demands of an Aston Martin.”
The inherent qualities of this light, compact and characterful power unit make it the ideal choice to sit alongside the existing V12 engine. Aston Martin’s engineering team has tailored the V8 engine perfectly for its application in the DB11 with bespoke air intake, exhaust and wet sump lubrication systems.
Electronic calibration of the V8 engine has included creating new ECU software and reprogramming the engine and throttle mapping to ensure it possesses the all-important feel and sound for which Aston Martins are renowned.
With its rich reserves of effortless performance, the V12-engined DB11 already fulfills the role of consummate high-performance luxury Grand Tourer. This provided the ideal opportunity to explore the more dynamic side of the DB11’s character and capabilities with the V8-engine option.
To this end Aston Martin engineers designed new engine mounts, which together with the bespoke, slimline wet sump system enables the V8 to be mounted as low as possible for an optimised centre-of-gravity. The V8 engine is also lighter and more compact than the V12, which contributes to a saving of 115kg and a kerbweight of 1760kg.
With more of that mass centred within the wheelbase, the V8-engined DB11 has an increased sense of agility - a quality that has been fully exploited with detailed revisions to the suspension bushing, geometry, anti-roll bars, springs, dampers and ESP software. By carefully crafting its dynamic character to be distinct from that of the V12, the V8 appeals to those customers drawn to a refined and comfortable GT with a more sporting bias.
There are subtle visual differences between the two variants that include a unique alloy wheel finish, dark headlamp bezels and a pair of bonnet vents instead of the quartet featured on the V12. These vents come in a choice of black or titanium-finish mesh, again different from that fitted to the twelve-cylinder variant.
Inside, both V8 and V12 customers have the same standard equipment levels and the same extensive choice of colour and trim options. They can also elect to enhance the specification of their car via the same Option Packs and Designer Specification packages, plus a suite of Q by Aston Martin - Collection options.
Aston Martin President and CEO, Dr Andy Palmer said of the V8-engined DB11: “The DB11 is the most complete and sophisticated car Aston Martin has ever made. 
Now, with this new V8 engine option we have broadened its appeal by offering a car that will bring the DB11 to more customers around the world while still blessed with the exceptional performance and memorable character that sets Aston Martin apart from its rivals. 
Having driven the car during its development phase, it is not just the engine that has changed the character of the car, but also the resulting dynamic changes to create a remarkable GT car with its own distinct personality from the V12.”
The V8-powered DB11 is on sale now with a recommended retail price from £144.900 in the UK, €184,000 in Germany and $198,995 in the US. Deliveries will commence in Qtr 4 2017. The new V8-powered DB11 will make its dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, this weekend.
  1. Predicted figure

Thursday, 12 January 2017

USA - Hyundai's luxury arm, Genesis, adds a new Sport Trim to it's G80 luxury Sedan.

  • New 3.3T Sport trim delivers dynamic performance, aggressive styling and ultimate comfort and convenience with class-leading features
  • Three powerful engine options: 5.0-liter V8,3.8-liter V6 and all-new 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6
  • Enhanced safety features for 2018 provide segment-leading standardized safety technology 
For the 2018 model year, Genesis adds an exciting Sport trim to its already popular G80 model, featuring a powerful new 3.3-liter turbocharged V6 engine plus unique sport performance upgrades. 

The recently debuted 2018 Genesis G80 Sport will be on display at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show, along with 2017 Genesis G90 flagship sedan, which is currently a North American Car of the Year finalist. 

The 2018 Genesis G80 is scheduled to arrive this Spring, and the 2017 Genesis G90 is available now at Genesis retailers.


The 2018 Genesis G80 3.3T Sport asserts its presence with a striking exterior and distinctive copper styling elements to visually differentiate it from the rest of the enhanced 2018 Genesis G80 model line-up. Unique 19-inch wheels, genuine carbon fiber interior trim, leather sport seats and steering wheel are just some of the exclusive design and performance features that highlight the G80 Sport.

Underneath its attractive exterior, the Sport’s 3.3-liter direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 engine boasts 365 horsepower, and is paired with a sport-tuned eight-speed automatic transmission. Supported by an upgraded suspension system, this robust new powertrain delivers superior driving dynamics, improved ride compliance and sport agility. The option of either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive is available to manage varying weather and road conditions.

The Sport 3.3T comes standard with the latest technology and advanced safety features, realizing Genesis’ commitment to driver and passenger protection. Driver aids such as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection, Driver Attention Alert and a multi-view camera provide driving convenience and safety. Furthermore, all Genesis vehicles offer Genesis Connected Services to bring seamless connectivity directly into the car with technology like Destination Search powered by Google®, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. With a three year complimentary subscription, Genesis Connected Services further enhances driver and passenger safety with SOS Emergency & Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) to provide peace of mind.

Additional details, including full specifications and pricing, will be available closer to the on-sale date.

Friday, 9 December 2016

The 100,000th Maserati is a White Quattroporte GranSport MY17 destined for China.

  • The 100,000th car is a white Quattroporte GranSport MY17 destined for China, the largest market for the brand’s flagship saloon.
  • Alfredo Altavilla, FCA Chief Operating Officer for the EMEA Region, thanked all the men and women at the Avv. Giovanni Agnelli Plant who made the achievement of this major milestone possible.
Earlier this week, at the Avv. Giovanni Agnelli Plant (AGAP) where the Ghibli sports saloon and the Quattroporte flagship saloon are built, celebrations were held to mark the production of the 100,000th car. 
It was a white Quattroporte Model Year 2017, equipped with the 350 horsepower 3.0 litre V6 Twin-Turbo engine built by Ferrari.  
This special Quattroporte is destined for China, a strategic market for Maserati and of primary importance for the Brand's flagship saloon car.

Alfredo Altavilla, FCA Chief Operating Officer for the EMEA Region, thanked everyone working at AGAP, whose dedication has made this plant a centre of excellence not only within the Maserati production organisation but for the entire FCA group.
“The Maserati brand's impressive growth during the last few years has been one of the major developments at the Premium end of the market; the sixth generation of the Maserati saloon, developed here at Grugliasco, is the best-selling Quattroporte of all time and almost 70,000 units of the Ghibli, built here, have now left the production line, meaning that in little more than three years it has become the most successful Maserati of all time," Alfredo Altavilla commented.
"With the Levante, the Brand has now moved into the SUV segment and the ‘Maserati spirit’ has also reached the Mirafiori plant, where the Levante is produced. The men and women who work here at the Avv. Giovanni Agnelli Plant at Grugliasco are already well aware of this," Mr Altavilla added, "because many of them mentored their Mirafiori colleagues during the production launch and build-up phases for the new Levante SUV, acting as ambassadors for the Brand's craftsman-like care and attention to detail.”
As well as the AGAP, Grugliasco and Mirafiori, Turin plants, Maserati has a third production location at its historic headquarters on Viale Ciro Menotti in Modena, where the GranTurismo and GranCabrio sports cars are built.
Today, Maserati is a genuine Italian icon: a symbol of creativity, passion, innovation and style, values all reflected in the range. Thanks to a unique blend of craftsmanship, technology and obsessive attention to detail, it produces cars that never fail to thrill and inspire.
With the range-completing Levante SUV, alongside the new Quattroporte, the Ghibli, the GranTurismo and the GranCabrio, Maserati now covers every sector of the global luxury car market.