Monday, August 31, 2009

BMW 7 Series High Security


With the launch of a new generation of BMW 7-Series High Security sedans based on theBMW 7-Series, the leading supplier of premium vehicles meets the most stringent safety requirements for persons at risk while travelling in their vehicles. Both, the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 750Li High Security are the first models in the world to be certified to BRV 2009 and both vehicles meet the requirements of the new ballistic protection level VR7. Due to their highly effective protective armour, the non-transparent body areas of the BMW 7-Series High Security meet the requirements of the ballistic protection level VR9. Hence, both the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 750Li High Security provide optimum safety in the individual mobility segment in combination with unparalleled comfort of travel, superior drive technology and an abundance of innovative equipment features to guarantee confident motoring at all times.The two BMW 7-Series High Security sedans set new standards in the protection of persons at risk while travelling in their vehicle. The unique security concept is based on findings which BMW gained as a result of its determined development work and on more than thirty years of experience in security vehicle engineering. The security concept was developed parallel to the production model and the integration of safety components is an integral part of the vehicle production process at BMW's Dingolfing plant. Specific chassis components are perfectly adapted to the increase in weight due to the sedans' armour plating. Hence, reinforced suspension, dampers and suspension strut top mountings are part of the model-specific component range. This approach ensures finely-tuned vehicle performance characteristics that cannot be achieved by retrofitted armour plating.google_protectAndRun("ads_core.google_render_ad", google_handleError, google_render_ad);Reinforced vehicle-specific armour plating made from special steel as well as newly developed safety glazing protect the passenger compartment in particular from attacks of all kinds. The passenger compartment is protected by armour plating of the doors, the roof, the pillars, the front footwell and the separation wall between passenger and luggage compartments. The steel panels, which were manufactured by means of a special technique, fit the body contours perfectly. The model-specific gap sealing ensures that critical areas such as door cut and body joint lines are safely sealed.The sedans' undercarriage is armoured by special plating which was developed with a particular focus on maximum explosion protection. Another new development is the sedans' 2.4" (6 cm) safety glazing. Due to its innovative structure, the multi-layer laminated glass cover provides a unique level of resistance. The window panes are covered with a polycarbonate layer on the inside in order to prevent shattered glass particles from penetrating the interior.Driving dynamics and comfort on a par with production models.Even with the highly effective security equipment, both the exclusive character of the interior as well as the driving dynamics that are typical of BMW 7-Series luxury sedans has been virtually retained. Despite their extensive safety equipment, BMW 7-Series High Security can hardly be distinguished from the corresponding production models.The sedans' high protection level, which is second to none, is combined with a prestigious appearance, outstanding comfort of travel and an impressively powerful drive system. Both the BMW 760Li High Security's twelve-cylinder engine and the BMW 750Li High Security's V8 engine offer a combination of all-aluminium design, BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and High Precision Injection with direct fuel injection. Both power units are distinguished by their energetic power delivery from a low number of revolutions, the running smoothness that is typical of BMW luxury sedans and their state-of-the art efficiency. Despite the increased weight of the vehicle, the engine performance characteristics of both models ensure that the new high-security sedans can achieve a dynamic acceleration from standing and a confident engine torque at all speeds. Both models have an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h.The newly developed V12 unit of the BMW 760Li High Security unleashes its superior power of 400 kW/544 hp at an engine speed of 5,250 rpm. Peak torque of 750 Nm comes at 1,500 rpm. In combination with the newly developed eight-speed automatic transmission, the 6.0-litre twelve-cylinder engine impresses drivers not only with its outstanding running smoothness, but also with its ability to spontaneously translate its seemingly infinite power reserve into precisely adjustable driving dynamics anytime. The BMW 760Li High Security accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in as little as 6.2 seconds.The 4.4-litre eight-cylinder engine of the High Security is the first petrol engine of its kind with turbochargers that are located in the "V"BMW 750Li space between the cylinder banks. The V8 engine achieves 300 kW/407 hp at engine speeds of between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm. It mobilizes a maximum torque of 600 Nm that is maintained between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. The spontaneously delivered engine thrust is applied to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The BMW 750Li High Security accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds.The BMW 7-Series High Security are distinguished by particularly harmonious driving characteristics. Both the comfort and the active security features of both models correspond to the premium quality standards that are typical of the BMW 7-Series. The innovative and in part exclusive BMW driver assistance systems ensure that potentially dangerous traffic situations can be foreseen and avoided, thus allowing for confident motoring.The combination of a double wishbone front axle with an integral V rear axle provides numerous benefits in terms of comfort and dynamics, but above all, it results in an outstandingly harmonious handling of curves, virtually eliminating rolling, swaying or tilting behaviour. Moreover, the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 750Li High Security are equipped with an electronically controlled Dynamic Damping Control. The dampers adapt to the road surface as well as to the style of motoring.The high-performance braking system ensures excellent deceleration values in all situations. Inner-vented discs and sliding calliper design for optimum efficiency on all four wheels provide extreme stability and maximum braking comfort. Run-flat tyres are equipped with temperature sensors and a separate tyre pressure monitoring system for each wheel.Special options for individual security requirements.Just like the range of comfort options, the security package for the BMW 7-Series High Security can be adapted to suit individual requirements. An intercom system with concealed microphones and speakers allows safe communication with people outside of the vehicle without the need to open doors or windows. Additional safety options include an assault alarm, fire extinguishing system with temperature sensor for extinguishing fires in the engine compartment and below the vehicle as well as irritant gas sensors for protecting passengers from gas attacks. If the interior protection system is triggered by excess gas levels, all windows are closed automatically, the central locking system is activated, the fresh air valves are closed and the ventilation system is shut off. An additional internal fresh-air supply system ensures that passengers are provided with breathable air.BMW also offers special options for authorities, governments and embassies. The package provides a range of special features such as flag holders, arrangements for radio installations right through to a gun case with compartments for two machine guns in the center console. Also included is an external beacon with a roof installation system and integrated LED flashing lights for the front grille. Upon request, the vehicle may be fitted with an acoustic signalling system that can be controlled via the iDrive operating system.In order to accommodate this exclusive circle of customers, BMW provides discreet consultancy and personalized sales and service support all over the world. BMW high-security sedans are serviced by certified special garages only. Access to the vehicles is restricted to very few selected and specially trained personnel. As part of the special customer service, BMW offers special driver training programs for security vehicles.

VXR8


Motoring enthusiasts across Britain mourned the passing of the Monaro. The only Australian-built car to be sold in the UK offered raw and exciting performance thanks to its 6.0-litre V8 and rear-wheel drive set up.But the thunder from down under hasn't stopped yet - in fact it's only going to get louder. Vauxhall has announced the arrival of a new Aussie musclecar - the VXR8 - and it's more powerful and exciting than even the legendary Monaro.The dramatic-looking new saloon is powered by the same 6.0-litre V8 as the outgoing Monaro VXR, but revisions to the engine have made it even more efficient. It now develops a massive 420PS and 550Nm of torque, giving it enough grunt to sprint from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds. No other supercar offers this sort of power for anywhere near the VXR8's price.Yet the VXR8, based on Australia's Holden HSV Clubsport R8, offers more in the way of practicality than the outgoing Monaro, with four doors and space for all the family.Although practical, with a spacious boot, comfortable, long-legged cruising ability and luxuries such as climate control and leather trim, the VXR8 is certainly no softie. Driver aids such as the stability system and traction control can be turned off at the flick of a switch - perfect for drivers who want to hone their skills on a track day!And VXR8 goes as well as it stops, too, with powerful 365mm front disc brakes that slow the car down from 60mph to a standstill faster than a Lamborghini Murcielago or BMW M5.In response to customer demand, the VXR8 will also be the first VXR model to be offered with an automatic gearbox. In order to maintain the control which VXR buyers require, the optional £1,400 self-shifter has a manual override and a sport setting which ensure the performance isn't blunted - in fact the auto is only half a second slower to 60mph than the manual!Satellite navigation and 20-inch wheels will be offered as options for those who want to make their VXR8 look more distinctive and help find their way to the best driving roads. Even with all the option boxes ticked however, the VXR8 is still around half the price of other cars with comparable performance. As all fast car fans know, Aussie rules.......Nissan Maxima

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400



The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 is the fastest and most extreme version of Mitsubishi's motorsport derived machine. With 403bhp and 387lb.ft of torque on offer from its advanced, lightweight aluminium 2.0-litre turbocharged MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) petrol engine the FQ-400 is able to reach 62mph from standstill in an estimated 3.8 seconds before reaching an electronically limited 155mph - where permitted.
Traction and handling
Ensuring all the FQ-400's power is put to good use is Mitsubishi's sophisticated Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) four-wheel-drive system which appropriates power to the wheels that can best use it, giving the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 quite sensational cross-country performance.
The S-AWC system combines a number of electronic systems that both enhance the FQ-400's performance and safety, with Active Stability Control and Active Centre Differential, Active Yaw Control and Sport ABS giving the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 incredible cornering ability, traction and grip. Depending on the conditions the driver can select the most suitable set-up for the S-AWC system, three choices - Tarmac, Gravel and Snow - being offered via the wheel-mounted button and displayed in the central instrument binnacle.
Cornering stability
Increasing the FQ-400's cornering ability even further over its FQ relatives is a wider track and lowered suspension featuring Eibach springs and Bilstein Shock Absorbers. Lightweight 18-inch, nine spoke alloy wheels fitted with Toyo Proxes R1R tyres enhance the FQ-400's grip, giving it sharper cornering response on the road and more incisive steering. The enhanced agility and performance is backed by a revised braking system which uses aerospace grade aluminium alloys and floating sealed discs grabbed by high performance pads.Extreme Power
To achieve the incredible 403bhp from just 2.0-litres Mitsubishi has had to significantly revise the FQ-400's advanced powerplant. Motorsport specification high-flow fuel injectors are fitted to the aluminium cylinder head and a new hybrid turbocharger is also fitted. The higher specification turbocharger features low-friction bearings, a high temperature turbine and strengthened thrust bearing to increase response and reduce turbo lag. Feeding the turbocharger cooled air, improving its performance and efficiency, is an enhanced intercooler, while the exhaust's gasses flow from the engine via a 3-inch diameter high flow stainless steel piping and catalytic convertor before exiting through a centrally positioned exhaust.
Mitsubishi has remapped the Engine Control Unit (ECU) extensively with over 500 hours of development time to allow its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine to not just produce its exceptional output but to do so with excellent driveability. The FQ-400's acceleration is sensational, it pulling hard through the gears regardless of engine revs. With peak torque of 387lb.ft on offer from just 3,500rpm, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 is just as able to trickle through town traffic as it is taking a rally special stage.
A 'nod' to the Evo VI
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 looks every bit the rally refugee too, giving a strong 'nod' to the styling cues of the legendary Evolution VI, and builds on the already aggressive style of its Lancer Evolution X FQ relatives.
A heavily vented bonnet helps heat escape from the FQ-400's turbocharged engine and a new lightweight composite front bumper incorporating Mitsubishi's trademark 'Jet Fighter' grille features carbon-fibre elements on its leading edges. Additional lighting and High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights mark out the FQ-400's nose, its added aggressiveness further enhanced by a 30mm drop in front ride height. Composite side skirts, a re-styled rear bumper with a carbon fibre diffuser, a rear wing incorporating a gurney strip and a roof-mounted 'Vortex Generator' all help manage airflow and cooling.
Behind the 18-inch lightweight, nine spoke alloy wheels it's possible to see the Alcon brakes on the front, while the Toyo Proxes R1R tyres underline the FQ-400's potency with their aggressive 'cut slick' tread pattern. Inside, the driver is held tightly against the FQ-400's sensational accelerative, braking and cornering forces in Recaro bucket sports seats, the range-topping Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X also gaining an FQ-400 liveried handbrake handle and carbon fibre gearknob.
No compromise
Despite its obvious focus the FQ-400's suspension offers compliance thanks to the Eibach Springs and Bilstein Shock Absorbers, the FQ-400's usefulness as a daily driver not compromised overly thanks to Mitsubishi's chassis tuning. The stiff bodywork not only provides an exceptionally rigid platform for the suspension to work, but excellent crash-worthiness, the Lancer Evolution X attaining a five-star score in Euro NCAP's independent crash tests. The FQ-400's S-AWC and its incorporated stability, traction and braking systems helping avoid an accident in the first place. Even so there's reassurance of seven airbags, seat belt pretensioners and ISO Fix child seating all included in its standard specification.
Fully loaded
Standard equipment for the range-topping Lancer Evolution X model is comprehensive, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 coming with Bluetooth hands-free telephone connection, a CD-tuner with 30 Gig hard drive, DVD satellite navigation and privacy glass. Convenience features like remote central locking, automatic headlamps and windscreen wipers increase the FQ-400's ease of use, the huge performance it offers not coming at the expense of usefulness. Like its Lancer Evolution X relatives it features comfortable seating for five as well as a usefully sized boot, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 bringing all the convenience of the standard saloon car it's based upon - but with explosive performance potential.
Setting the standard
Standard it's not though, instead the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X FQ-400 is a standard setter, with performance that's the measure of any rival and many exotic sports and supercars costing many multiples of its £49,999 list price. Available from June 2009, the FQ-400 is covered by a three year / 36,000 mile warranty.

Audi S5 Sportback



The Audi S5 Sportback is the pinnacle of the new Audi A5 Sportback model line. This elegant, five-door coupĂ© is propelled by a three-liter V6 with a mechanical compressor. From a displacement of 2,995 cm3 (182.77 in3), the small turbo engine delivers 245 kW (333 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm. The Audi S5 Sportback sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.4 seconds; its top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is limited by an electronic governor. It averages just 9.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.25 mpg) — the best in this power-output category.
Concerning the powertrain, the Audi S5 Sportback similarly underscores its superiority: a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive are standard equipment. Upon request, Audi will include the sport differential. It variably distributes power on the rear axle between the rear wheels. This new "top model" has a sportily configured chassis with 18-inch aluminum wheels fitted with 245/40 tires; black brake calipers bear S5 emblems at the front. Speed-dependent servotronic steering is also standard.
Small yet striking exterior and interior features visually distinguish the Audi S5 Sportback. Equipment highlights include electrically adjustable S sports seats covered with Silk Nappa leather. Sales of the Audi S5 Sportback will start in Spring 2010; its basic price will be 57,900 euros

Mazda 3 MPS



Mazda 3 MPS dimensions and specifications for EU
Dimensions
Overall length: 4,505 mm
Overall height: 1,460 mm
Overall width: 1,770 mm
Wheelbase: 2,640 mm
Treads (front/rear): 1,535 mm/1,520 mm
Luggage capacity: 300 l with Bose® System
Drive train: FWD
Engine: MZR 2.3-litre DISI Turbo
Displacement: 2,261 cm3
Bore x stroke: 87.5 mm x 94.0 mm
Fuel tank capacity : 60 l
Max. output : 260 PS (191 kW) at 5,500 rpm
Max. torque: 380 Nm at 3,000 rpm
Fuel consumption
Combined: 9.2 l / 100 km
Urban: 13.5 l / 100 km
Extra urban: 7.5 l / 100 km
Emissions ranking: Euro Stage V
Exhaust system: single-nanotechnology
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission
Differential: Torque-sensing Limited Slip Differential
Performance
Max. speed: 250 km/h
0-100km/h (EU): 6.1 s
Steering: Electro-hydraulic power assisted system
Turn lock-to-lock: 2.7
Min. turning circle: 11 m
Suspension, front: MacPherson strut
Suspension, rear: Multi-link
Coil spring rate, front: D26.8 N/mm
Coil spring rate, rear: D29.9 N/mm
Dampers, front: Twintube
Dampers, rear: Monotube
Stabilizer diameter, front: 26 mm
Stabilizer diameter, rear: 25 mm
Front brake type, diameter: Ventilated discs, 320 mm
Rear brake type, diameter: Solid discs, 280 mm
Coefficient of drag: 0.32 Cd
Brake booster: 8" + 9" tandem booster & large 1" diameter master cylinder
Tyres, wheels: Dunlop 225/40 R18, 18x7.5J