Breaking: New Porsche Cayenne

Alright, here we go! The new Porsche Cayenne is out a couple of days ahead of the Geneva Show. The black Cayenne is a turbo, the white one is the S Hybrid.

The press release:

------------------






Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is presenting the brand-new generation of the Cayenne Sports Utility at the Geneva Motor Show in early March.

The absolute highlight of this new generation is the world debut of the Cayenne S Hybrid with its technically highly sophisticated parallel full hybrid drive and fuel consumption in the New European Driving Cycle of just 8.2 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 34.4 mpg imp), which means CO2 emissions of just 193 g/km. The Cayenne S Hybrid therefore combines the performance of an eight-cylinder with the economy of a six-cylinder running on much less fuel.




Led by the Cayenne S Hybrid, all models in the new generation are trendsetters in efficiency and performance in their respective segments. Compared with the former models, fuel consumption is down by up to 23 per cent, since the new Cayenne, like every Porsche, has been developed according to the principle of “Porsche Intelligent Performance”: more power on less fuel, greater efficiency and lower CO2 emissions.



These objectives result, not least, from the introduction of the new Tiptronic S eight-speed automatic transmission with Auto Start Stop and a wide spread of gear ratios, thermal management on the engine and transmission cooling circuit, on-board network recuperation, variable engine cut-off and intelligent lightweight construction.




Thanks to its special combination of materials for optimum weight as well as changes in the overall concept of the vehicle such as the Cayenne’s new active and extra-light all-wheel drive, weight is down for example on the Cayenne S by 180 kilos or 400 lb – despite the improvement of product substance and an even higher standard of safety. This clearly has very positive effects not just on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, but also on performance, agility and handling.



Benefiting from these features and new technologies, the new Cayenne offers even more driving pleasure both onroad and offroad, combined with even greater everyday driving qualities, enhanced comfort and supreme elegance. The completely new, sporting and elegant design of the new model integrates the 2010 Cayenne even more closely into the overall range of Porsche cars. The sports car-like character of the Cayenne comes out even more from all angles, just as the highlights in the shape and design of the car so typical of Porsche are also clearer than ever before.



Extra space inside and greater variability is ensured by the wheelbase now 40 mm or almost 1.6” longer. In all, the new Cayenne is 48 mm or 1.9” longer than its predecessor. But despite its larger exterior dimensions, the new generation of the Cayenne is nevertheless far more compact and dynamic. The most significant eye-catcher within the brand-new, high-quality interior is the centre console rising up to the front with its upright selector or gearshift lever, giving the interior the typical character of a cockpit upfront. The rear-seat bench moves fore-and-aft by 160 millimetres or 6.3”, with the backrest angle adjusting to three different settings.




Sales of the Cayenne in Europe are starting on 8 May, with Porsche offering the right model from the start for every customer: The range starts with the 3.6-litre V6 Cayenne. Despite the increase in engine power to 300 bhp, fuel consumption in the NEDC driving cycle in conjunction with optional eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission is down from the former model by no less than 20 per cent to 9.9 ltr/100 km, equal to 28.5 mpg imp.



The Cayenne Diesel with its 240 bhp (176 kW), 550 Newton-metre (405 lb-ft) three-litre V6 likewise reduces fuel consumption by 20 per cent, down from 9.3 to 7.4 ltr/100 km (equal to 30.4 mpg imp now improving to 38.2 mpg imp).

Fuel consumption is also down significantly on the high-torque Cayenne S with its 4.8-litre V8 power unit, in this case by 23 per cent to 10.5 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 26.9 mpg imp). At the same time the new engine delivers 400 bhp maximum output instead of the former 385 bhp, offering significantly better performance, just like all models in the new generation of the Cayenne.



This also applies to the Cayenne Turbo, with its 500 bhp (368 kW) 4.8-litre V8 biturbo consuming just 11.5 ltr/100 km (equal to 27.6 mpg imp) in the New European Driving Cycle, again 23 per cent less than its predecessor (14.9 ltr/100 km or 19.0 mpg imp).

Together with the Cayenne S Hybrid, no less than three of the five versions of the Cayenne thus consume less than ten litres of fuel per 100 km in the New European Driving Cycle, with two models emitting less than 200 grams of CO2 per kilometre. At 193 g/km, the Cayenne S Hybrid is not only the cleanest version of the Cayenne with the lowest level of emissions, but also the cleanest Porsche throughout the Company’s entire portfolio.



In the intelligent interaction of the three-litre supercharged V6 and the electric motor, the Cayenne S Hybrid focuses on maximum efficiency from the overall system. Depending on driving conditions, the vehicle reaches this target with either only one drive unit operating by itself or with both drive units working together. In this context the 34 kW (47 hp) electric motor is of course the ideal partner for the 333 hp compressor engine with its high torque at low speeds. Together, the two drive units deliver maximum system output of 380 bhp and peak torque of 580 Nm/427 lb-ft at just 1,000 rpm, with the same kind of performance as the Cayenne S with its V8 power unit.




The two drive units are connected to one another by a separator clutch masterminded by the Hybrid Manager. Indeed, this separator clutch is essential to run the Cayenne S Hybrid either on its electric motor or combustion engine alone, or with both drive units operating together. Given a reserved, moderate style of motoring, for example in a residential area, this allows the driver to cover short distances on electric power alone and therefore absolutely free of emissions and with hardly any noise, driving at a speed of up to 60 km/h or almost 40 mph.



To ensure fast acceleration when setting off, the electric motor may however serve to provide additional thrust through its boosting effect. Intelligent management of the separator clutch makes the transition among the hybrid-specific driving modes most inconspicuous, comfortable and quick for the driver. At the same time the combustion engine may be completely switched off at speeds of up to 156 km/h or 97 mph, being fully disengaged from the drivetrain when no further power is required. In this so-called sailing mode, cruising along without power, the drag forces exerted by the combustion engine and their braking effect are eliminated in the interest of lower drive resistance and fuel consumption.




The prices of the new Cayenne models in Germany including national specifications and 19 per cent value-added tax (Euro base prices without national specifications and 19 per cent VAT in brackets) are as follows:

Cayenne 55,431 Euro (46,400 Euro)
Cayenne Diesel 59,596 Euro (49,900 Euro)
Cayenne S 72,686 Euro (60,900 Euro)
Cayenne S Hybrid 78,636 Euro (65,900 Euro)
Cayenne Turbo 115,526 Euro (96,900 Euro).



Bonus pics:

AMS-video: Jaguar XKR Speed Pack & Black Pack

The Jaguar XKR is a really great performer, and with the Black Pack it becomes a stealth bomber as well!

Video: Statement Marine

Holy cow. Here in Norway its like -10 degrees Celsius and snowy at the moment. This video made me forget the crappy outdoors for a while.

Video: McLaren MP4 update

Today McLaren released this new footage regarding the upcoming supercar. A couple of times you can really enjoy the true sound of the engine. I must admit this is exciting!

Audi RS5

At last the RS5 drops the curtain, and it is a beauty. Have a look at the flared fenders, the urquattro is alive!

The press release:

-------------




Audi to present the RS 5 in Geneva
Coupé with 331 kW (450 PS) high-revving V8 engine
RS 5 also efficient - 10.8 liters per 100 km (21.78 US mpg)
Newly-developed center differential for quattro drivetrain
Unbridled power lurking in a classically elegant coupé: the Audi RS 5 will debut at the Geneva Auto Show. The high-revving 4.2-liter V8 with its 331 kW (450 hp) unleashes powerful performance while achieving remarkable fuel economy. The seven-speed S tronic and an innovative center differential in the quattro drivetrain transmit power to all four wheels.
Developed by quattro GmbH, the RS models comprise the dynamic spearhead of Audi‘s model range. The RS 5 is the latest torchbearer in a tradition dating back over 15 years to the RS 2 Avant: superior handling in the mid-size class.
A close relative of the V10 which powers the high-performance R8 sports car, the high-revving V8 engine delivers its output from a displacement of 4,163 cm3. Like nearly every Audi gasoline engine, this one also operates via direct fuel injection known by the abbreviation FSI. This same technology has propelled the Audi R8 racing car to four triumphs at the classic endurance race in Le Mans. The common-rail system generates up to 120 bars of pressure.

Intensive fine-tuning of the dual-branch intake and exhaust system allows the undersquare engine to breathe freely; four adjustable camshafts and tumble flaps in the intake manifold facilitate mixture formation. The 4.2 FSI provides imposing torque and is right at home even at high revs – almost like a race engine. The engine delivers 331 kW (450 hp) at 8,250 rpm and – between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm - transmits a maximum of 430 Nm (317.15 lb-ft) of torque.
The vigorous strength, the spontaneous responsiveness, the joyful high-revving, and the throaty, sonorous music: this V8 produced by hand at Audi stunningly combines the essence of power and emotion. The 4.2 FSI propels the coupé’s 1,725 kilograms (3,802.97 pounds) in 4.6 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph) to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Audi can increase that to 280 km/h (173.98 mph) upon request.

Impressive efficiency: just 10.8 liters of fuel per 100 km
Efficiency is standard in every Audi; the RS 5 is no exception. The ultra-powerful eight-cylinder engine averages 10.8 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (21.78 miles US mpg) - far less than its main competitors. This impressive figure is due in part to the technologies from the Audi modular efficiency platform. The engine and the entire drivetrain have been optimized to minimize friction, the oil pump operates on demand, and an energy-recovery system conserves energy during coasting and braking.
The standard seven-speed S tronic in the RS 5 – with its high efficiency ratio and its high-geared top speed – also enhances efficiency. It consists of two clutches and two subsidiary transmissions. Both subsidiary transmissions are continuously active, but only one is powered at any given time by the engine. Gears are alternately shifted by the two clutches – at lightning speed, smoothly, and almost imperceptibly.

The seven-speed S tronic, which was specially reinforced to accommodate the high-revving V8, can operate in fully automatic mode – or the driver can shift via the innovative selector lever or shift paddles on the steering wheel. By means of the standard Audi drive select, the driver can switch in automatic mode among three different options: auto, comfort, and dynamic. In the launch control program, the seven-speed S tronic ensures flawless acceleration from a standstill – at full power and with minimal tire slip.

New quattro technology: the crown-gear differential
Like all RS models, the RS 5 also applies its power to the road with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. As for the center differential, which regulates power distribution between the front and rear axles, Audi – the leading all-wheel-drive brand – unveils the next generation: a crown-gear differential.
The self-locking crown-gear center differential is compact and lightweight – and attains a high efficiency ratio.
Thanks to its package of plates, the differential can widely vary the distribution of torque between the front and rear axles. If necessary, up to 70 percent can flow to the front or as much as 85 percent toward the tail end. The 40:60 ratio of the standard rear-biased configuration ensures sporty handling.
This new differential operates in conjunction with electronic torque vectoring, which affects all four wheels. If one of the inside wheels becomes imbalanced while the vehicle is at its operational limits, then the system slightly decelerates the wheel to obviate wheel spin. This results in terrific traction on the one hand while generating a yaw moment which aids cornering.
As a perfect complement to the new quattro drivetrain, Audi can optionally position the sport differential at the rear axle. It actively distributes torque between the rear wheels in order to further boost stability and grip at the vehicle’s limits of handling. The electronic management of the RS 5 sport differential was designed to be uncompromisingly dynamic.
With regard to the springs, shock absorbers, elastokinematics, and the anti-roll bars, the RS 5 chassis exhibits a sporty configuration and renders the body 20 millimeters (0.79 inches) lower than that of the Audi A5. The 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with 265/35 tires are standard. They are executed in an exclusive 5-arm structure design. The RS 5 optionally comes with 20-inch wheels and 275/30 tires. Winter wheels featuring the same dimensions are available; the 19-inch wheel is suitable for snow chains.


The brake system employs powerful and internally ventilated discs, which measure 365 millimeters (14.37 inches) in diameter at the front axle. In order to maximize the dissipation of heat, the steel friction rings are perforated and connected by pins to the aluminum brake discs. The high-gloss black brake calipers bearing RS logos are likewise made of aluminum; the front calipers are fitted with eight pistons each. Audi can optionally fit the front axle with ceramic carbon-fiber brake discs measuring 380 millimeters (14.96 inches) in diameter. They are extremely lightweight, strong, and durable. The electronic stabilization program (ESP) integrates a sport mode and can be switched off entirely.
Even more dynamics: Audi drive select
The speed-dependent servotronic steering in the RS 5 is especially taut. The standard Audi drive select (a vehicle-dynamics control system) allows the driver to switch among three modes of operation – comfort, auto, and dynamic – to adjust steering, the seven-speed S tronic, the sport differential, the engine, and the exhaust system. And if the car is equipped with the MMI navigation system, a fourth mode allows the driver to customize their own profile.
As regards the engine, Audi drive select controls the exhaust system’s two throttle valves and the sound flaps; when they open, the rich sound becomes even more resonant. Along with the sport differential, dynamic steering is another optional component of Audi drive select. Dynamic steering adjusts the steering ratio to a vehicle’s speed – directly for maneuvering at low speeds and indirectly for traveling at highway speeds. At the vehicle’s cornering limits, it automatically ensures smooth handling via minor corrective actions.
The RS 5 exudes an athletic and powerful identity; its classically beautiful coupé styling dazzles with new and clear-cut accents. Its single-frame grille bears a shiny charcoal-gray rhombus-pattern grid. Xenon plus headlights boasting a sweeping strip of LED daytime running lights are standard. The oversized air inlets for the engine, front brakes, and the radiators are bordered by striking contours. The newly designed bumper tapers downward into a splitter.
The flared fenders with the crisp horizontal upper edges are reminiscent of a classic Audi: namely, the all-wheel-drive pioneer Audi quattro, which itself debuted at the Geneva Auto Show 30 years ago. The side sills bear angular caps; the trim strips on the single-frame grille and near the side windows as well as the outside mirrors’ covers feature a matt aluminum look. Eight different paint finishes are available.
The tail end is dominated by two oval exhaust pipes integrated within the bumper. A large diffuser protrudes prominently upward. The spoiler in the tailgate automatically extends at a speed of 120 km/h (74.56 mph) and retracts at 80 km/h (49.71 mph).
The extensively clad underbody of the RS 5 integrates air vents for the seven-speed S tronic and the front brakes. At highway speeds, the aerodynamic characteristics of the RS 5 generate downforce to further enhance stability.
Dynamic elegance: the interior
The vehicle’s dynamically elegant styling extends to the interior. Sports seats with pronounced side sections and integrated head restraints are standard. They are electrically adjustable and feature a leather/Alcantara combination. Alternatives include bucket seats with more prominent contours and folding backrests or ventilated and luxuriously upholstered climate-controlled comfort seats.

The steering wheel has a substantial rim and is covered with perforated leather. The instruments have black gauges and white lettering with distinctive scaling. When the ignition is switched on, the red needles briefly rise high and then drop back down. The driver information system integrates a lap timer for recording circuit times and an oil-temperature gauge. Just like the optional MMI navigation systems’ monitor, it displays an RS greeting upon ignition.
The interior is black and the decorative inlays are made of carbon fiber. A fascia in the instrument panel features a piano finish. The pedals, the footrests, and the optional MMI navigation systems’ control buttons gleam thanks to their aluminum look. Moreover, the door handles consist of two slim strips – typical of Audi RS models. Aluminum inserts adorn the door sill trims and RS 5 logos lend dynamic highlights to the interior.
Upon request, truly exclusive features such as decorative inlays with a dark, stainless-steel mesh look, a black piano finish or brushed aluminum are available. Or seat upholstery featuring special leathers and colors as well as silver headlining. In addition, the Audi exclusive RS program offers options such as suede-covered controls and floor mats bearing RS 5 logos.
A Carbon design package is available for the engine compartment and, for the vehicle body, there are styling packages in black or matt aluminum look. And the acoustically bold Sport exhaust system – also with a sound flap – has black tailpipe trims.
Sales of the Audi RS 5 will begin in the spring. Its basic price will be approximately 77,700 euros.

Hmm. Stevie isn´t blind after all?

Cool commercial with a nice twist.

BMW-highlights at NAIAS 2010

For you BMW-heads out there.

BMW X5 facelift

"New" is overdoing it, facelift is the word you are looking for.

Amazing "BMW"

This is the boat that won this years Americas Cup. BMW Oracle Racing is an really amazing piece of technology. Have at look at how it goes airborne - got to love it!

AMS-TV: Spy shots - the BMW 5-series touring

Have a look at the stillstanding dark blue car at appr 0.30 and the lines of it. This is going to be a very nice "Griswold"-stationwagon.

AMS-TV: Visit at RUF

One of my favorite Porsche-tuners, caught by one of my favorite magazines.

Jaguar XKR, Speed Pack & Black Pack

I think Jaguar is one of the companies in the car industry thats best to put fresh ideas to life. They do their own thing and it really works good. Now they are letting out their most bad-ass looking car in modern times, the XKR Black Pack.

The full press release:

------------------





JAGUAR TO UNVEIL THE FASTEST XK EVER AT GENEVA SHOW
Jaguar will unveil the latest dramatic evolution of its supercharged XKR coupe at the Geneva Motor Show in March. This XKR delivers a significantly raised maximum speed – up to 174mph from 155mph – and bold styling changes that create an evocative and unique supercharged Jaguar.
The XKR Coupe unveiled at Geneva showcases two new optional performance and styling packs – Speed Pack and Black Pack – that are introduced to the XK range at 2011 Model Year. Jaguar customers have the option to personalise their vehicle to create a car that offers even greater performance without compromising the refinement and luxury for which every Jaguar is renowned.
By raising the XKR’s maximum speed the new car has extended its sporting credentials taking it even further into supercar performance territory.



Russ Varney, Chief Programme Engineer, XK Series, explains the philosophy behind the uprated XKR: “With 510PS and 625Nm of torque, the XKR has immense reserves of power and acceleration which impress everyone who experience it. The car has always had the potential to reach speeds far beyond its original electronically limited maximum and many of our customers have expressed an interest in a car that can safely be driven faster where conditions permit. The new Speed Pack allows them to release some of that potential and give them control of the fastest Jaguar XK we’ve made to date.”
The XKR Coupe featured at the Geneva Show on 4th March 2010 pairs both the optional Speed and Black Packs to create the bold new model, which also sports optional Piano Black veneers on the dashboard and red brake callipers.

The XKR Speed Pack
The XKR Coupe with new optional Speed Pack allows customers to further strengthen their XKR’s already impressive breadth of capability, by extending the car’s top speed from 155mph (250km/h) to an electronically limited 174mph (280km/h) thanks to a unique engine and transmission recalibration.
To ensure the XKR with Speed Pack remains stable at high speeds, the coupe uses a revised front aerodynamic splitter and larger rear spoiler to provide increased balance and a reduction in lift. The XKR’s computerised Active Differential Control also adjusts to reduce steering sensitivity at very high speeds, further improving stability and driver control.

Every XKR with the Speed Pack will come with body-coloured side sills and rear diffuser, and a chrome finish to the window surrounds, upper and lower mesh grilles, side Power Vents and boot lid finisher. Red brake callipers with a Jaguar ‘R’ logo sit inside 20-inch Kasuga alloy wheels.
Customers who order the XKR Coupe with the Speed Pack will be offered a paint palette that is part of the Jaguar Designers’ Choice programme – a range of colours that have been specifically chosen to compliment the performance potential of the car. Seven colours are available on Speed Pack models – Ultimate Black, Polaris White, Salsa Red, Liquid Silver, Lunar Grey, Kyanite Blue and Spectrum Blue.



The XKR Speed and Black Pack
For customers looking to create a real statement with their Speed Pack XKR Coupe, the new optional Black Pack allows them to own a bold and purposeful Jaguar with undeniable visual impact thanks to menacing gloss black wheels and exterior detailing.
Available only with the Speed Pack, XKRs fitted with the Black Pack have a paint palette selected from colours that Jaguar’s Design team believe to be ideal for creating a coupe with immediate exclusivity. The Black Pack models will be available in Ultimate Black, Polaris White or Salsa Red and boast eye-catching 20-inch gloss black Kalimnos alloy wheels. Further gloss black finishing is applied to the window surrounds and front grilles. Red painted brake callipers contrast strongly with the black alloy wheels, while body coloured front and rear spoilers and boot lid finisher round out the package. Customers also have the option to apply a sweeping ‘XKR’ side body graphic that runs along the door sills.
Jaguar’s Design Director, Ian Callum, says the new Black Pack is a fitting addition to the XKR: “While Jaguars are about beauty, they are also about speed and power. With the optional Black Pack you can now add a sense of drama and severity to that performance.”
In addition to the Black Pack’s exterior changes, the Jaguar Designers’ Choice programme has also selected a range of interior trims that support the visual impact of the car. All XKRs with the Black Pack will be trimmed with Charcoal leather hides that can be personalised with a range of colour stitching and grain. Three interior finishes and veneers for the fascia and door trims are also available – Dark Oak, Dark Mesh Aluminium and Piano Black.


Other enhancements for 11MY
To underline the XKR's sporting credentials at 11MY red brake callipers become standard on all XKR Coupe and Convertible models.
A tyre repair Instant Mobility System (IMS) becomes standard on all XK and XKR models. This frees up the 30-litre wheel well, which is now carpeted and can hold a specially designed and tailored XK accessory suitcase, substantially increasing the versatility of the car.
In the UK, retail pricing of the XK range starts at £61,955 for the 5.0 n/a V8 petrol. The Speed Pack costs £3,500 and the Speed and Black Pack costs £4,000. Both are available on XKR Coupe only.

Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible

Bentley has finally dropped their latest bomb, the Supersports without roof

From the press release:

-----------------------

The fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley ever

6-litre W12 engine twin-turbocharged engine produces 630PS (621bhp/463kW) at 6000 rev/min and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque at 2000-4500 rev/min
0 – 60mph in 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds)
0 -100mph in 9.6 seconds (0-160km/h in 9.5 seconds)
Top speed of 202mph (325km/h)
Overall weight saving of 90kg (198lb) versus GTC Speed




A highly focussed, extreme Bentley convertible driving experience

Revised ZF 6HP26 transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system that cuts shift times by 50% and enables double downshifts
New 40/60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering’
Retuned Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system, stiffer suspension bushes and uprated rear anti-roll bar benefit body control, steering response, turn-in and balance
Increased 50mm rear track improves grip and stability
Lightweight, 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels offer 10kg (22lb) weight saving per car, reducing unsprung and rotating mass and improving brake cooling
275/35 ZR20 Pirelli Ultra High Performance tyres
Advanced ESP system fully exploits potential of the most powerful W12 engine and improved chassis
Standard-fit carbon-ceramic brakes provide fade-free braking and contribute a 20kg (44lb) reduction in rotating and unsprung mass from the front axle.


.

Breaking: Porsche Panamera V6

As expected, Porsche is now launcing the V6 Panamera. This is a completely new engine, which will be built in the Zuffenhausen-factory.

The full press release and pictures:

-------------------

Stuttgart. Following the successful start of the Panamera into the market, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is rapidly expanding the range of models available: Starting in May 2010, both the Panamera and the Panamera 4 will be at the dealership as the new entry-level versions leading into Porsche’s Gran Turismo model series.

Both models are powered by a brand-new 3.6-litre V6 featuring Direct Fuel Injection and developing maximum output of 300 bhp (220 kW) plus peak torque of 400 Nm/295 lb-ft. Following Porsche’s nomenclature, the Panamera transmits its power to the road via the rear wheels, while the Panamera 4 comes as standard with active all-wheel drive.



The two new versions of Porsche’s Gran Turismo are convincing examples of the Porsche Intelligent Performance consistent development strategy. Equipped with PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungs-
getriebe (Porsche Double-Clutch Gearbox) and Auto Start Stop, both models consume far less than 10 litres of fuel on 100 kilometres in the New European Driving Cycle: The Panamera makes do with a mere
9.3 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 30.4 mpg imp), the Panamera 4 averages 9.6 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 29.4 mpg imp. Nineteen-inch all-year tyres with optimised roll resistance available as an option reduce these consumption figures by another 0.2 litres/100 kilometres, giving the Panamera a CO2 rating of just 213 g/km, the Panamera 4 an equally impressive 220 g/km. Both V6 versions of the Panamera fulfil the strict EU5 emission standard in Europe and the LEV standard in the United States.



Superior economy and performance typical of the brand do not rule out each other on these new V6 Gran Turismos. On the contrary – the ideal combination of these qualities is attributable to consistent lightweight construction as one particular highlight, with the axles, doors, engine compartment lid, wings and the rear lid all made either of aluminium or a combination of aluminium and magnesium. At the same time the brand-
new V6 power unit built at Porsche’s engine plant in Zuffenhausen and boasting a 90o cylinder angle is approximately 30 kg or 66 lb lighter than the eight-cylinder featured in the Panamera S and 4S, thus contributing to the low overall weight of the Panamera of just 1,730 kg or 3,815 lb.

Like the proven V8 models, both the Panamera and the Panamera 4, as genuine Gran Turismos, combine sporting character with a high standard of comfort and everyday driving qualities. Apart from the regular steel suspension available as an option with variable dampers, adaptive air suspension with additional air volume is also available on request. This provides a very wide range of suspension qualities and features extending from an even higher level of motoring comfort at one end all the way to extremely sporting driving dynamics at the other.




The Panamera and Panamera 4 will be making their world debut at the Beijing Motor Show as of 23 April 2010. Both models will be entering the German market in May 2010 and are scheduled to enter the US market in June.

Prices start at Euro 75,899.- including value-added tax and national specifications for the Panamera (base price in the Euro countries Euro 63,600.-), while the Panamera 4 fitted as standard with PDK Porsche-
Doppelkupplungsgetriebe retails at Euro 84,110.- including VAT and national specifications (base price Euro 70,500.-).

Audi RS6 plus sport and Audi exclusive

Today Audi launched two limited versions of the mighty RS6. Here is the press release:

------------------

Audi is offering two new limited-edition equipment packages for the RS 6 – restricted to just 500 units. With a top speed of 303 km/h (188.28 mph), a Carbon design package for the engine compartment, 20-inch wheels bearing a 5 segment-spoke design, and the sports suspension plus, each of these RS 6 models will be truly unique. In fact, each of them will be a one-of-a-kind thanks to a numbered badge in the interior. Customers can opt for one of two packages: RS 6 plus Sport or RS 6 plus Audi exclusive.
The Sport version features an instrument-panel hood and center console covered in leather; an RS 6 logo adorns the front floor mats. Concerning the Audi exclusive package, customers can also specify a custom paint job by choosing from the color range of quattro GmbH. In addition, the seat upholstery, controls, door trim inserts, front center armrest, and the armrests in the door trims are covered in leather of an attractive color from the Audi exclusive program. Seat add-on parts are adapted to match the color of leather in question.



Thanks to FSI direct gasoline injection, twin-turbo supercharging, and dry sump lubrication, the high-performance V10 delivers 426 kW (580 hp) and maximum torque of 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 6,250 rpm. This sedan mirrors the performance of a high-performance sports car: from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph) in just 4.5 seconds and it exceeds the 200 km/h threshold (124.27 mph) after just 14.5 seconds. The sports suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) reduces pitch and roll by purely mechanical means. The driver can switch among the three operating modes of the MMI operating terminal’s shock-absorber control system: comfort, dynamic, and sport.
The RS 6 offers all the comfort of the A6 line of business models and is in the hands of quattro GmbH, a fully-owned subsidiary of AUDI AG. High-quality materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum, leather, and Alcantara create a cultivated and dynamic atmosphere in the interior. And intelligent assistance systems grant drivers yet more control. Audi lane assist warns the driver should the car inadvertently veer out of its lane.
Audi side assist alerts the driver to possible critical situations during lane changes. Audi adaptive cruise control maintains proper speed and following distance. In addition to three-dimensional road maps, the MMI navigation plus offers a DVD player for navigation/audio/video DVDs as well as a radio with dual tuner and a 40 GB hard disk drive which can store up to 3,000 musical tracks in addition to navigation data.
The RS 6 plus Sport and RS 6 plus Audi exclusive equipment packages are available now. The Sport version costs 3,250 euros; the Audi exclusive package 8,310 euros. This equates to savings of about 50 percent compared to purchasing the items individually.

Video: More of the 997 GT3 R Hybrid

Porsche has released another clip of their hybrid racecar.

Video: The new Touareg

Always much more fun the see new cars in real action.

AMS-TV: Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

If crazy fast ponycars is your thing, the GT500 with 550 HP should be worth considering.

AMS-TV: Porsche 911 2,7 vs 997 SportClassic

Wonder how the new SportClassic is? Watch this video and start praying for the bucks....

Video: The Porsche Turbo S story

Ahh, this is the right stuff. Enjoy.

Electric racing: Porsche GT3 R Hybrid

The rumors has been in the air for a while - an electric racecar from Porsche. The company will race the hybrid-GT3 R in some very prestigious races. I think this is their way of preparing our brains for an electric 911 in the future.
The press release:

------------------




911 GT3 R Hybrid Celebrates World Debut in Geneva


Stuttgart. Exactly 110 years after Ferdinand Porsche developed the world’s first car with hybrid drive, the Lohner Porsche Semper Vivus, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is once again taking up this visionary drive concept in production-based GT racing: During the Geneva Motor Show, a Porsche 911 GT3 R with innovative hybrid drive is making its debut, opening up a new chapter in the history of Porsche with more than 20,000 wins in 45 years scored by the extremely successful Porsche 911 in racing trim.

The innovative hybrid technology featured in the car has been developed especially for racing, standing out significantly in its configuration and components from conventional hybrid systems. In this case, electrical front axle drive with two electric motors developing 60 kW each supplements the 480-bhp four-litre flat-six at the rear of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid. A further significant point is that instead of the usual batteries in a hybrid road car, an electrical flywheel power generator fitted in the interior next to the driver delivers energy to the electric motors.

The flywheel generator itself is an electric motor with its rotor spinning at speeds of up to 40,000 rpm, storing energy mechanically as rotation energy. The flywheel generator is charged whenever the driver applies the brakes, with the two electric motors reversing their function on the front axle and acting themselves as generators. Then, whenever necessary, that is when accelerating out of a bend or when overtaking, the driver is able to call up extra energy from the charged flywheel generator, the flywheel being slowed down electromagnetically in the generator mode and thus supplying up to 120 kW to the two electric motors at the front from its kinetic energy. This additional power is available to the driver after each charge process for approximately 6 - 8 seconds.

Energy formerly converted – and thus wasted – into heat upon every application of the brakes, is now highly efficiently converted into additional drive power.

Depending on racing conditions, hybrid drive is used in this case not only for extra power, but also to save fuel. This again increases the efficiency and, accordingly, the performance of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid, for example by reducing the weight of the tank or making pitstops less frequent.

After its debut in Geneva the 911 GT3 R Hybrid will be tested in long-distance races on the Nürburgring. The highlight of this test programme will be the 24 Hours on the Nordschleife of Nürburgring on May 15th and 16th. The focus is not on the 911 GT3 R Hybrid winning the race, but rather serving as a spearhead in technology and a “racing laboratory” providing know-how on the subsequent use of hybrid technology in road-going sports cars.

The 911 GT3 R Hybrid is a perfect example of the Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy, a principle to be found in every Porsche: More power on less fuel, more efficiency and lower CO2 emissions – on the track and on the road.

New Volkswagen Touareg

Due to snowstorm in Munich, I was not able to attend the premiere of the new SUV last night. Anyway, here it is. Longer and lower, with the possibility of choosing the hybridversion. A V6 TSI petrolengine pushes out 333 HP and a the electric engine helps with 47 HP.

The new Audi A8

Checking out Audis biggest fella around Marbella, Spain. This is the A8 in its completely new glory. Coverstory in FA Motor Saturday the 20th.