Showing posts with label Los Angeles Auto Show. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Los Angeles Auto Show. Show all posts
Sunday, December 6, 2009
![[2011-Buick-Compact-Sedan-2.jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMnGLIjNPjtXwtLaqPHWvJSBG-zB-sZiV77SB7I-H0A3dA5p2VZ1KsKjYDMSB-qqUPeXCs5Ah9aY4xFCN9GrYi95zJgp5ayKzADfmVIq7xh3z3mjmXWvnIHv5BqyS8mylJ1MV6HF1mD8/s1600/2011-Buick-Compact-Sedan-2.jpg)
During Buick's Los Angeles Auto Show press conference for the unveiling of the Opel Insignia-based 2011 Regal saloon, the company's product marketing director, Craig Bierly, showed a teaser sketch of the next addition to the Buick range, a premium compact sedan.
"And now, I have more exciting news to share with you; the first public showing of a rendering that includes our entire future sedan portfolio," Bierly said at the presentation.
more detail. ...
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Kia Motors' Newest Compact Sedan and Koup Take Top Prize for Style, Value and Fuel Efficiency
0 comments Posted by Dono at 1:04 AM
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- NADAguides.com, the leading provider of vehicle pricing and information, today announced the 2010 Kia Forte compact sedan and its two-door brethren have been awarded the NADAguides.com Car of the Year. During a standing-room-only press conference at the 2009 Los Angeles International Auto Show where Kia announced its all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, NADAguides.com shared in Kia Motors' excitement naming the 2010 Kia Forte/Forte Koup its Car of the Year for 2009. Though the competition in this segment is strong, the Forte was the stand-alone top contender with a long list of "Best in Class" features and stylish design both inside and out, making it NADAguides.com's Car of the Year.
"Our editorial team realized the moment we got behind the wheel of the Forte that it would be a top contender for our NADAguides.com Car of the Year, but it wasn't until we extensively drove the sporty four-door sedan and the two-door coupe that it solidified our decision," said Michael Caudill, NADAguides.com auto expert and spokesperson. "2009 marked many great new entries in the auto industry. With cars like the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Mercedes-Benz E350 and Nissan 370Z Roadster coming in closely behind the Kia Forte, it made our decision difficult, but when you add up the low price point, Best in Class features, and a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, it made our decision to award the Forte much easier."
For complete 2010 Kia Forte/Forte Koup pricing and information, please visit NADAguides.com.
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Friday, December 4, 2009
The 2010 Hyundai Tucson was introduced to North America in Los Angeles this week. Revealed internationally as the Hyundai ix35 earlier this year in Frankfurt for European markets, the compact crossover gets 31 mpg on the highway, up 24% from the previous generation.
ALL-NEW TUCSON DELIVERS BETTER FUEL ECONOMY AND MORE POWER
Los Angeles, Dec. 3, 2009 - In 2010, a revolutionary new Tucson joins the rapidly evolving Hyundai product line. The sleek crossover from Hyundai, with its athletic European design, strikes a stark contrast from its predecessor and improves in every functional area, from its roomier cabin with extra cargo space to its leap in fuel economy and technology. Tucson features the company's "Fluidic Sculpture" design language and is the first vehicle in Hyundai's 24/7 version 2.0 product initiative (seven all-new models by the end of 2011).
The all-new Tucson is the first Hyundai CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) to be designed and engineered in Europe at Hyundai's Frankfurt-based design and technical centers. It features precedent-setting engineering including advanced weight saving technology and the eco-efficient Theta II 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering up to 31 mpg on the highway. True to Hyundai form, the Tucson applies life-saving safety technologies as standard equipment while offering, for the first time, Downhill Brake Control (DBC) and Hillstart Assist Control (HAC). Likewise, to keep its passengers informed and comfortable Tucson integrates Hyundai's first panoramic sunroof, touch-screen navigation and a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system.
more detail. ...
Thursday, December 3, 2009
LA Auto Show: Mazda 2Evil and Active2 Surf & Snow Special Concept
0 comments Posted by Dono at 10:03 PM
Mazda 2Evil Special Concept
This concept is inspired by the weekend track car but one that can function equally well as an urban commuter. The body has been modified to show a more aggressive front spoiler and a deeper side rocker for improved aerodynamics and lower overall stance. A strong lower diffuser is added to enhance the rear proportion and more emphasis is placed on the exhaust tip. The rear upper spoiler was redesigned for both additional downforce and a race appearance. The dynamic MAZDA2 body is finished in Ceramic Grey metallic with subtle motorsports inspired graphics. The graphics are finished off with the historic number 55, a tribute to the 1991 Le Mans-winning Mazda 787B race car. Wheels, mirrors and other details are accented in Spirited Green. To top it off, the performance and stance are enhanced with 17" wheels, 215/45/17 Yokahama Advan tires, lowered coil-over suspension provided by H&R and Magna performance exhaust.
The Mazda Active2 Surf & Snow Special Concepts
The Active2 Surf exterior showcases a more aggressive front bumper and rocker. Adding to the sport theme, 17" wheels with 215/45/17 Yokahama Tires and H&R coil over suspension were applied. The sheet metal is finished in Spirited Green and detailed with Active2 graphics. These subtle effects are displayed on the hood and driver-side fender. The graphics are finished in graphite and white, with matching wheels and mirrors. To support the overall concept, the Active2 Surf has been set up with a Thule roof rack system and a matching carbon fiber surfboard.
The Active2 Snow exterior showcases a more aggressive front bumper and rocker. Adding to the sport theme, 17" wheels with 215/45/17 Yokahama Tires and H&R coil over suspension were applied. The sheet metal is finished in Frozen White and detailed with Active2 graphics. These subtle effects are displayed on the hood and driver-side fender. The graphics are finished in graphite and Spirited Green, with matching wheels and mirrors. To support the overall concept, the Active2 Snow has been set up with a Thule roof rack system and matching snowboards.
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The Honda Personal-Neo Urban Transport (P-NUT) design study model demonstrates a futuristic concept for an ultra-compact and sophisticated city coupe, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Conceived around a small "footprint" for maximum convenience in tight urban settings, the packaging concept integrates a center driving position configuration and a rear powertrain layout. The exterior styling leverages crisp angles with dynamic flowing lines that originate from the front of the vehicle and span outward toward the rear. The end result is a sleek and aggressive exterior that also allows for a spacious and open interior with excellent visibility.
"A new generation is discovering the benefits of living in urban centers that provide convenient access to business, entertainment and social opportunities," said Dave Marek, director of advanced design for Honda R&D Americas, Inc. "The Personal-Neo Urban Transport concept explores the packaging and design potential for a vehicle conceived exclusively around the city lifestyle."
The exterior styling is intended to capture a future direction for premium sophistication while balancing the need for maximum interior space and an aerodynamic appearance. The interior layout, in conjunction with the rear powertrain design, contributes prominently to the exterior's overall shape.
The layout of the interior space, with its center driving position flanked by two rear seats, provides generous legroom for all occupants, roughly the equivalent of a mid-sized sedan in a vehicle that has an exterior footprint similar to a micro car. Interior functionality is increased by rear seating areas that fold up and out of the way to increase storage capacity. The windshield serves as a heads-up display for the navigation system and the back-up camera.
The modular rear engine bay, depicted on the exterior by blue composite material, is designed to accommodate a wide variety of potential propulsion technologies including a conventional small displacement internal combustion engine, a hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, or a battery-electric powertrain.
"The objective of the exterior and interior designers was to explore the potential for a new type of small-segment-category vehicle that overcomes many of the objections for existing micro-car designs," said Marek. "While the Honda P-NUT concept introduces function-oriented concepts, it also shows that small cars don't have to compromise on style or amenities."
The Advanced Design Studio of Honda R&D Americas, Inc. in Los Angeles developed the P-NUT design study model. Honda R&D Americas began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 33 years to include all aspects of new vehicle research, design and development. Recent Honda-brand efforts include trend-setting products such as the Pilot, Ridgeline, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si Coupe.
Specifications
Size class: Ultra-compact
Layout: Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Passengers: 3
Length: 3,400 mm
Width: 1,750 mm
Height: 1,439 mm
Powertrain: Internal-combustion engine, hybrid-electric or battery-electric
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Wednesday, December 2, 2009
With the unveiling of the 2011 Boxster Spyder at the Los Angeles Auto Show today, Porsche has sent us this exclusive video shot over the weekend. It features driving footage on two of the most challenging and legendary roads in North America, 17-mile Drive and Laureles Grade in Monterey California. The video also gives us a quick demonstration on how the soft top is installed.
Global market launch begins in February 2010. U.S. pricing is $61,200. In Europe, €53,100 (€63,404 in Germany, after a 19 percent VAT and country-specific features are applied).
Porsche describes the Boxster Spyder as "the purist form of the mid-engine sports car." Quite a bold statement open to debate, especially from Lotus. However, when we take a closer look, the Boxster variant is not just cosmetic.
Slotted above the Boxster S, the Spyder makes 10hp more at 320hp and weighs 176 lbs (80 kg) less at 2811 lbs (1278 kg). The Boxster Spyder uses the 3.4 liter flat six with direct injection. Standstill to 60 mph arrives in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 166 mph with the roof open.
As a defining characteristic, the Boxster variant includes a lightweight manual soft top which Porsche suggests should be used for "protection only" suggesting the top remain off at all times - unless it rains. As a result, the low-slung silhouette defined by the extra-low side windows and single-piece rear lid with Carrera GT inspired twin bulges can be viewed in full.
Other design touches include modified front and rear bumpers, 10-spoke alloy wheels, and revised air intakes. Inside, the roadster boasts an exclusive interior with sport seats, 'Boxster Spyder' branded scuff plates, and a body-color center console.
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Toyota unveiled the all-new, third-generation Sienna minivan at a media conference today at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto show.
The Toyota Sienna is well known as a transportation solution for moving people and cargo comfortably and efficiently. The third-generation Sienna will look and drive more like a sedan, conform to new ideas about personal comfort, easily accommodate cargo, and handle big loads.
The 2011 Sienna has been reinvented to handle these needs as it shifts to a more expressive and dynamic vehicle with a stronger profile, high shoulder character and responsive handling. With state-of the art features and rewarding driving dynamics, it is a vehicle that car-lovers will find satisfying to drive. Sienna will offer new models, including a sporty SE and a four-cylinder powertrain, as it continues to be the only offering in the segment with an all-wheel-drive option.
“The all-new Sienna is an example of Toyota’s commitment to lead the marketplace as it anticipates consumers’ needs and changes in lifestyle,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. The third-generation Sienna combines a contemporary style with features not previously seen in a minivan, and a fun-to-drive spirit that will surprise many, along with the flexibility, spaciousness and features that have defined the segment.
The Sienna was designed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research and developed at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., with assembly being accomplished at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.
Visually Intriguing
The Sienna will come in five conveniently configured grades, all sharing a distinctly new visual direction and features. The third-generation Sienna explores a more modernly advanced and bold design. The sportier profile is complemented with distinctive window shapes. Working closely with engineering, Sienna designers were able to create a high and wide shoulder to embed a deliberately hidden door slider within the window graphic.
The strong high shoulder and distinct fender flares visually emphasize the wheels. Dimensionally, the new Sienna rides on the same wheelbase as the prior generation, but it is wider and slightly shorter overall.
In the front is a bold face design. Sophisticated headlamps angled higher than the grille lends a confident front presence. The sculptural rear corner separates the Sienna from boxy minivans as it surrounds the functional yet elegant LED taillights.
The interior features upscale quality and elegance, yet every element are logical and functional. The distinctive swept shape of the IP creates the perception of increased personal space for both driver and passenger. Careful attention to the details adds extra value to each component. Sleek seat designs add flexibility and roominess while central climate and audio controls are integrated into a single graphic element.
Overall, the new Sienna has a sportier, classier appearance. A Cd of 0.306 is the result of careful design work and is a contributing factor in maintaining a quiet cabin and providing excellent fuel economy.
Power, Plus Efficiency
A choice of two responsive DOHC engines will be available: a 3.5-liter V6 or 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. Both engines offer the latest in efficient, lightweight technology, including Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), roller rocker arms and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) that changes the length of the air-intake pipe to supply more torque on demand.
The 3.5-liter V6 makes 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, with expected EPA-estimated mileage ratings of 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway (16 mpg city/22 mpg highway on AWD models). It also has a 3,500-pound tow capacity. With 187 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces responsive power that exceeds some competitors V6 performance, while delivering expected EPA-estimated fuel efficiency ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Both engines are matched with state-of-the-art, electronically controlled six-speed transmissions with sequential shift that provide smooth gear-shift feeling, quiet performance and a lightweight, compact size.
The suspension uses front MacPherson struts, combined with rack-and pinion steering for smooth, linear steering feel. Electronic Power Steering (EPS) delivers a more solid direct on-road feel. With a wider stance, the new Sienna has a more direct steering feel. Under-body aero parts also contribute to dynamic performance.
Models and Features
The Sienna will come in five grades: Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. All-wheel-drive is available with the V6 on LE, XLE and Limited models.
With five distinct model choices, the new Sienna can be tailored to a wide range of purposes and pocketbooks. The Sienna can be configured with seven- or eight-passenger seating, in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive, with a range of prices and features to accommodate different mixes of practical needs and high aspirations.
The Sienna and LE grades are available with either the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine or the 3.5-liter V6. The value-driven Sienna grade and popular LE are equipped with an array of standard features that include: cruise control, Daytime Running Lights with manual on/off feature, tri-zone air conditioning, six- or eight-way-adjustable driver’s captain’s chair, power windows with auto up/down and jam protection, AM/FM CD player with four speakers, XM compatibility, auxiliary jack, power door locks, remote keyless entry, and three 12V outlets, among other amenities. The Star Safety SystemTM, which includes Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and Traction Control (TRAC), is standard on all models.
The LE V6 model is upgraded with even more features including dual power-sliding doors and power rear door, a power driver seat with power lumbar support, electrochromatic rearview mirror with Homelink™, backup camera, rear window sunshades, AM/FM/MP3 CD player, integrated XM® satellite radio (subscription required), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod® connectivity, and hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology, and steering wheel audio controls. These features can be added to the four-cylinder model as a package.
The XLE builds on the LE, adding features such as leather-trimmed seats, moonroof, and an anti-theft system with engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry, and heated front seats. Select optional XLE equipment includes a 10-speaker JBL® premium sound system with voice-activated DVD Navigation and Panorama rear camera with integrated back-up guides, XM® NavTraffic (subscription required), rear-seat Dual View Entertainment system, and an auxiliary audio jack and USB port with iPod® connectivity.
The Limited is designed for customers who want all the features with more luxury. The standard equipment list is extensive, including new second-row Lounge Seating and a power 60/40 Split & Stow third-row seat, front and rear parking sonar, dual moonroof, Smart Key, and Safety Connect™. Select options include those available on the XLE plus HID auto high-beam auto-high beam headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
New Sporty SE
Given its upgraded engineering, every Sienna will ride well and track cleanly through corners, but none more so than the newest addition to the line: the sporty SE.
The SE is designed for those who appreciate an even sportier design with responsive performance. The front has a more aggressive appearance and the side skirting visually lowers the vehicle. Aerodynamic sculpting hugs the standard 19-inch alloy wheels, which are specially tuned for sportier handling. Separating the SE further from other grades, the smoked tail lamps create a visually prominent statement. The SE sits lower, on a sport-tuned suspension for quicker feedback and better handling. Additionally, the SE is built with exclusive instrumentation and unique interior colors and trim.
Comfort Remains Key
The cabin of the new Sienna represents a conceptual leap forward, blending options for more individual space, better cargo capacity, and improved group interaction.
The interior is more than two inches longer, and the seats now have longer ranges of travel, making it possible to comfortably accommodate a wider range of heights and sizes.
The front seats have more rearward travel, and the steering wheel has a less upright position, so the driver can adopt a comfortable driving posture. The driver’s instruments and controls are clear and concise, and the greater cabin width helps create extended personal space for both driver and front passenger.
Numerous storage bins, cupholders and cargo spaces have been strategically placed in convenient locations. A conversation mirror, integrated into the sunglass case in the overhead console, allows visual contact with rear seat passengers.
Throughout the cabin, there is an open field of view to create an airy, roomy ambiance. With wider fields of vision rearmost passengers can see forward more easily.
Both seven- and eight-seat cabins can be configured for a full contingent of passengers, a load of cargo, or a convenient mix of both. In seven-seat cabins, the second row captain chairs slide 23 inches, moving to the rear to create legroom for the tallest passengers and easier ingress and egress. They can be moved forward close to the front seats to make it easy to care for a child passenger, while also allowing easy access for third-row passengers.
A sliding center console on the XLE all-wheel-drive and Limited grades can be shared between the front seats and second row passengers. The illuminated console slides into the second row area to provide convenient access for both rows, so the need for storage and passenger comfort can be equally served.
For even more passenger comfort, there is standard second-row lounge seating on the Limited grade, which includes leg and foot support. Second-row captain chairs on all grades have dual armrests, and a one-motion release mechanism in case the seat needs to be removed.
On eight-passenger models, the second-row center seat can be removed and stowed in the left side of the rear-storage area. When the center seat is stowed, a cupholder and storage tray is revealed. The eight-passenger interior can easily be optimized for seven passengers, and quickly reconfigured back for eight.
The second-row seats also feature a Tip Up and Long Slide feature, allowing them to slide forward and back on extended rails, making more room for people or cargo as the need arises. All second row seats, regardless of configuration, move out of the way with one touch to gain easy access to the third row seats.
The 60/40 Split and Stow third-row seating folds flat with one motion manually, with the Limited front-wheel drive receiving a power feature. The third row has been moved about two inches rearward for enhanced comfort. With the third-row seat in use, there is enough storage for five golf bags or four large suitcases. Four handy grocery hooks, with two in the back and two in the second row seatbacks, add storage convenience.
It is easier than ever to load the Sienna, thanks to wider doors and one-touch second-row seats. By sliding the second-row seats all the way to the rear, a walk-in aisle is created, making it easier to enter, exit, install a child seat, or place a child in a seat. The second-row seats can be moved all the way to the front, just behind the front row, to maximize rear cargo capacity, especially with the third-row stowed flat.
With the third row seat stowed and the second row seat removed, the cargo area is approximately eight feet long and four feet wide. The back door opening is broad and spacious, set at a height that makes loading and unloading easy.
A cabin air filter is standard along with an air-conditioning system that controls the temperature of three separate zones.
Innovative Technologies
A Toyota first rear-seat Dual View Entertainment Center is another innovative option. The system uses two displays side-by-side to create a seamless 16.4-inch widescreen image from a single source. When two separate entertainment options are called for, the system can split the screen into two individual screens, each with input from separate sources. Used as a single screen, it can be easily seen from the third row, and it can be operated from any seat via remote control. Used as two screens, the system can accommodate the preferences of two separate passengers who might want to play a video game or watch a second DVD simultaneously via auxiliary inputs.
Other technological upgrades include a Toyota-first Panorama Camera rear monitor. It provides two views behind the vehicle including a 180-degree view, and on-screen back-up guides, helping drivers to reverse out of parking spots or driveways.
Safety for All
An enhanced version of Toyota’s Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is standard on all 2011 Sienna models. VSC coordinates the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist with Traction Control (TRAC) and Electric Power Steering (EPS), to help provide a the driver a better-integrated, controlled vehicle in the event of an emergency maneuver.
A Pre-Collision System (PCS) with pre-collision seatbelt system is an available option on Limited, as is the latest in advanced vehicle control technology: Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). The VDIM system coordinates brake control with engine output and steering inputs, allowing all the control and safety systems to cooperate seamlessly. Unlike reactive traction systems, VDIM operates proactively. During normal driving, the system works smoothly to enhance control even before the vehicle reaches its limits.
Seven airbags are standard equipment, including dual-stage front and seat-mounted side airbags for driver and front passenger, plus a new driver’s side knee airbag. Side curtain airbags cover the length of the cabin, from the front seats to the third row.
The new Safety Connect™ telematics system is standard on Limited and optional on XLE. Safety Connect offers four safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and Roadside Assistance. A complimentary one-year trial subscription is included.
In case of airbag deployment or severe rear-end collision, Automatic Collision Notification is designed to automatically call a response center. If a response agent cannot communicate with the occupants, the agent can contact the nearest emergency-services provider to dispatch assistance.
Pushing the in-vehicle “SOS” button allows drivers to reach the response center to request help in an emergency as well as for a wide range of roadside assistance needs. If a Sienna equipped with Safety Connect is stolen, agents can work with local authorities to help locate and recover the vehicle.
The all-new 2011 Sienna will begin arriving at Toyota dealerships in February 2010.
2011 SIENNA PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 | 2.7-liter L4 |
| Total Horsepower | 266 hp | 187 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed ECT-i automatic
| 6-speed ECT-i automatic |
| Towing Capacity (lbs.) | 3,500
| N/A
|
| Width (inches) | 78.2 | 78.2 in. |
| Height (inches)
| 68.9 70.7 with roof rails | 68.9 70.7 with roof rails |
| Overall Length (inches) | 200.2
| 200.2
|
| Wheelbase (inches) | 119.3 | 119.3 |
| Wheels Sienna grade and LE FWD
XLE FWD
LE, XLE, LTD AWD
SE
| 17-inch five-spoke alloy
17-inch seven spoke machine finished alloy
18-inch 10-spoke machine finished alloy
19-inch six-spoke Super Chrome finished alloy | 17-inch five-spoke alloy
|
| Tires
| P235/60 R17 (Sienna grade, LE, XLE) P235/55R18 (Limited) P235/55RF18 (AWD models) P235/50R19 (SE) | P235/60 R17 (Sienna grade, LE)
|
| Emissions Rating | ULEV II
| TBD
|
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2011 CADILLAC CTS COUPE: NEW SPORTS COUPE IS CADILLAC'S MOST DRAMATIC DESIGN
0 comments Posted by Dono at 2:03 AM
LOS ANGELES – Cadillac today unveiled the 2011 CTS Coupe, the latest and most dramatic of the brand's series of new designs to reach production. Slated to arrive in Cadillac showrooms in the spring of 2010, the CTS Coupe is a new luxury sports coupe designed to become the centerpiece of the brand's revised lineup.
"CTS Coupe is the new focal point of Cadillac, expressing both our technical and design capabilities," said Bryan Nesbitt, Cadillac general manager. "It is intended to appeal to a new generation of car enthusiasts."
The Coupe joins the CTS Sport Sedan, the 556-horsepower (415 kW) CTS-V and new CTS Sport Wagon as the foundation of Cadillac's lineup. A high-performance V-Series edition of the Coupe will also be released in 2010.
The CTS Coupe's design carries over virtually unchanged from the concept car that was introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in 2008.
The Coupe is a classic 2+2 layout bolstered with advanced technology, such as a rear-view camera system and a performance-oriented suspension system coupled to rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Design
CTS Coupe emerged as a proposal inside Cadillac's dedicated design studio, where designers develop and evolve the brand's Art and Science design philosophy.
"Cadillac has always been an emotional brand – it's about delivering art regardless of body style," said Max Wolff, director of exterior design for Cadillac. "With the CTS Coupe, it was about taking something very strong – the CTS Sport Sedan – and extending its potential."
The coupe has the same wheelbase as the CTS, but an overall height that is approximately two inches (51 mm) lower and an overall length that is two inches
(51 mm) shorter.
Although it draws from its sport sedan sister, the CTS Coupe shares only the instrument panel, console, headlamps, front fenders and grille. Key design
features include:
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Classic hardtop styling, with no conventional B-pillar
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Touch-pad operation for the doors removes the need for conventional door handles, creating a technical, clean profile
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A windshield laid at a faster angle (62.3 degrees) and a long, nearly horizontal backglass area combine to create a dramatic profile
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Sculpted lower front fascia with unique brake-cooling vents
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Rear fascia with mesh lower grilles
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Center-outlet exhaust with twin dihedral-shaped tips that pass through
the rear fascia
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Signature vertical lighting, highlighted with LED light pipes
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Rear spoiler integrated into the signature center high-mounted stop lamp
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Sculpted roof-mounted antenna for OnStar and XM Satellite Radio.
At first glance, the shape of CTS Coupe is refreshingly simple, yet amplified with intricately carved details. Distinctive and original Cadillac signature cues combine with hand-sculpted forms, artfully articulating the confidence of the chassis. For example, the rear fenders were purposefully developed by hand in Cadillac design studios to visually acknowledge the RWD powertrain. The gestured profile, coupled with Cadillac's vertical taillamps and pronounced rear centerline, aim to achieve the most visually confident coupe in the segment.
Performance
The CTS Coupe extends Cadillac's emerging performance credentials. The CTS Coupe's standard powertrain consists of a direct injected 3.6L V-6 and six-speed manual transmission. Direct injection technology delivers fuel more precisely to increase the efficiency of combustion, enabling more power while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions – including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.
The 3.6L DI engine is rated at 304 horsepower (227 kW) and offers EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg on the highway. It also runs on less expensive regular unleaded gasoline.
The powertrain's performance is channeled through a chassis that delivers sports car performance without punishment. The hardware includes an independent short/long arm (SLA) front suspension system, with hydraulic control arm front bushings; and a multi-link rear suspension mounted on a fully isolated subframe. Also included are four-wheel disc performance brakes, premium steering and limited-slip differential.
Two suspension-tuning levels are available: a Performance Package with 18-inch wheels and all-season tires (available in both RWD and AWD,) and the Summer Tire Performance Package, with 19-inch tires and wheels and a higher level of road holding capability. StabiliTrak, the advanced electronic chassis control system, is standard.
The 304-horsepower (227 kW) 3.6L V-6 Direct Injection engine will be standard, equipped with a six-speed manual, featuring a revised clutch and dual-mass flywheel that offers better clutch pedal feel and improved engine isolation. A 6-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control (and available steering wheel mounted shift buttons) is optional.
Technology
CTS Coupe blends handcrafted luxury with a contemporary, driver-focused interior that supports the car's high-performance capabilities. The interior includes hand-sewn accents covering the door, center storage console and instrument panel trim. 14-Way adjustable Recaro sport seats, previously exclusively offered on Cadillac's V-Series model, will be offered on all CTS Coupe models as an option.
The car offers a host of customer driven technologies, including:
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Integrated iPod/MP3 capability
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40-gig hard drive, including the ability to store music and pause-and-replay
live radio
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Pop-up navigation system
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Adaptive forward lighting system
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Bluetooth connectivity
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Standard Keyless Access and Smart Remote Start
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Rear Camera system
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Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround™ audio system
As with other Cadillac models, the CTS Coupe comes standard with OnStar with
Turn-by-Turn Navigation, the first factory-installed, fully integrated GPS navigation system from OnStar.
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Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Scion is pulling the wraps off its latest limited-production vehicle, the 2010 xB Release Series 7.0 (xB RS 7.0), in the Scion booth at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, December 2-13.
The pleasing purple xB RS 7.0 flosses a four-piece DAMD body kit that includes front and rear lower lips along with side skirts. The xB comes exclusively painted in a distinctive color, appropriately named Murasaki, which means "purple" in Japanese.
One of the most distinguishing features of the xB RS 7.0 is the TRD sport muffler that exits out the center of DAMD rear lip. The exhaust system features twin double-walled tips and is specifically designed in conjunction with the DAMD rear lip to give the xB a sporty appearance and a sound that can only be found on this particular Release Series.
To complete the stylish exterior, the xB RS 7.0 is equipped with TRD lowering springs that bring the ride height down over an inch and offer athletic handling. A color-keyed rear spoiler is available as an option.
The interior of the xB RS 7.0 features exclusive black fabric seats with color-tuned highlights that complement the car's exterior. The sides of the driver and front passenger lower seat cushions are embroidered with the "RS" logo. The driver is also treated to a leather-wrapped RAZO GT Formula Spec shift knob that delivers a robust feel.
Only 2,000 units of the xB RS 7.0 will be built, and the first ones will begin arriving in dealerships in December 2009. Each xB RS 7.0 comes with an individually numbered stainless-steel badge to announce its uniqueness.
The xB RS 7.0 model will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $18,320 with a manual transmission, and $19,270 with an automatic transmission. A limited supply of the available color-matched rear spoiler will be available to xB RS 7.0 owners and carries a MSRP of $320, not including installation.
The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $670 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.
The xB RS 7.0 will get face time as a showcased vehicle in Scion's booth at the LA Auto Show, and additionally on the Release Series page on the online social networking site Facebook, where the vehicle is featured in the Murasaki racing game.
For more information on Scion vehicles, please visit www.scion.com, and for the xB Release Series 7.0 Facebook page, direct your browser to www.facebook.com/scionreleaseseries.
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