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    ‘Drive of the Dragon’ Final Film Launched Following Global Premiere in Barcelona 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 14-05-2012 05:34 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. International
    Article Preview




    ‘Drive of the Dragon’, the short martial arts film starring Formula One World Champion Sebastian Vettel, is now available online having been launched in an exclusive screening in Barcelona.

    The film’s premiere, on the eve of the Spanish Grand Prix at the Catalunya circuit, was attended by Formula One paddock insiders, media, and guests of Infiniti. The evening, hosted in the underground cellars of the Ocaña club, also featured a live music performance from Sebastian’s multi-talented film co-star Celina Jade.

    ‘Drive of the Dragon’ is the first of the Infiniti ‘Inspired Performers’ series and sees Sebastian Vettel star alongside martial artist and Hollywood actress Celina Jade.

    The film is searchable online using #driveofthedragon and can be easily viewed/shared from www.driveofthedragon.com or www.infiniti.com/inspired-blog.

    The video can also be downloaded from www.infiniti-performanceteam.com/video.
    There is also a competition on www.driveofthedragon.com for ten lucky entrants to win an official, strictly limited edition film poster.

    Since the 2011 season Infiniti has been a major partner of the Red Bull Racing team and in 2012 the relationship has been deepened with Infiniti featuring even more prominently on the Red Bull Racing RB8 and the overalls of Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber. Last year Sebastian Vettel was appointed Infiniti’s first ever Global Brand Ambassador.
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    Pricing Announced for Tri-Turbo BMW M Performance X Cars 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 14-05-2012 04:14 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. BMW
    Article Preview

    • First-ever BMW M Performance models - X5 and X6 SAVs
    • Debut of the worlds most powerful six-cylinder in-line diesel engine
    • BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupé range refreshed for 2012
    • Arriving in Australian dealerships in June
    BMW will bolster its high-performance Sports Acvity Vehicle (SAV) line-up with the arrival in June of its ground-breaking triple-turbo, diesel engine M Performance models, headlining a midlife update of the entire BMW X6 model range.
    Sitting atop their respective model engine line-ups, the BMW X6 xDrive M50d and X5 xDrive M50d are creations of BMW’s iconic high-perfomance division, BMW M GmbH, benefitting from a proud motorsport pedigree and expertise in engine, transmission and chassis technology.

    BMW Group Australia Managing Director, Phil Horton said the M Performance vehicles are positioned between the current most powerful standard BMW models and the thoroughbred BMW M cars.

    “These M performance vehicles each have a distinctive character and open up an entirely new model category,” said Mr Horton.

    “They will appeal to the particularly sporty driver for whom everyday practicality is also an important consideration,” he said.

    At the heart of these new BMW M Performance models is the new 280 kW six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology. It is the most powerful volume-produced six-cylinder diesel engine in the world.

    Its unique triple turbocharging technology delivers a whopping 740 Nm maximum torque which is already available in the 2,000 to 3,000 rpm range, with the 3.0-litre engine delivering its maximum output of 280 kW between 4,000 and 4,400 rpm. A maximum engine speed of 5,400 rpm and a specific output of 93.6 kW per litre of engine capacity attest to a level of sportiness previously unheard of in a diesel powerplant.

    At low revs, only a small turbocharger with variable turbine geometry is active. Above around 1,500 rpm, this is supported by a larger turbocharger. In the top rev range from approximately 2,600 rpm to the 5,400 rpm redline, a third turbocharger with variable turbine geometry is added to boost pressure and power output.

    The BMW X6 xDrive M50d sprints to 100km/hr from a standing start in 5.3 seconds with the X5 xDrive M50d just 0.1 seconds behind. Performance is matched by supreme efficiency as a result of the EfficientDynamics measures fitted as standard. Fuel economy and CO2 emissions for the X5 M50d are 7.5l/100km and 199g/km, while for the X6 M50d they are 7.7l/100km and 204g/km.

    The bespoke M suspension tuning applied to the M Performance models ensures an outstanding, immediate response to steering wheel inputs as well as precise and controlled handling in highly dynamic situations while also ensuring a level of ride comfort that satisfies the requirements of everyday driving.
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    Big on Performance, Small in Number: The MINI John Cooper Works GP 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 13-05-2012 09:01 AM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. International
    3. BMW
    Article Preview

    Fastest MINI ever built – Best lap of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife: 8 min. 23 sec. – Extensive use of motor sport technology – Racing feeling transferred to the road – Preview at the MINI United festival – Production limited to 2,000 cars.


    Only once has there been anything like it, but even that wasn’t as quick. With the MINI John Cooper Works GP, the British premium brand has come up with another car of exceptional talent designed to deliver extreme performance on both the race track and the road. The sportiest road-registered MINI ever made will go on sale later this year in a limited run of 2,000 cars. It is currently completing a programme of testing in preparation for series production, part of which has involved setting an impressive fastest lap of the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit. The MINI John Cooper Works GP lapped the erstwhile Grand Prix course in 8 min. 23 sec. In so doing, the new model has put clear asphalt between itself and numerous sports cars from loftier perches - and beaten the lap time set by its predecessor, the MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit, almost 19 seconds.


    Underpinning the performance characteristics of the MINI John Cooper Works GP is exclusive powertrain, chassis and aerodynamics technology inspired directly by motor sport. Its twin-scroll turbo engine generates outstanding torque, displays remarkable elasticity and demonstrates a healthy appetite for revs. Specially developed, adjustable race suspension channels this superlative output into spectacular yet precisely controllable handling.


    As well as being undeniably imposing visually, the design of the body also gives the MINI John Cooper Works GP ideal aerodynamic balance in extreme driving situations - a key element in delivering that handling flair. Large front and rear aprons, striking side skirts and a bespoke roof spoiler are complemented by a newly developed rear diffuser which optimises airflow around the underbody. The interior of the MINI John Cooper Works GP also contributes to the car’s inspirational racing feeling; with the rear seats removed, it focuses unashamedly on the needs of the driver and co-driver.


    Concentrated motor sport expertise - faithfully embodied at MINI by its John Cooper Works sub-brand - is the not-so-secret ingredient in the MINI John Cooper Works GP recipe. The "GP" tag on the model title tells you exactly where the extreme sports edition of the compact MINI most tellingly reveals its potential. The GP's chassis configuration, the effectiveness of its race-spec braking system, the grip offered by its likewise bespoke racing tyres, and its aerodynamic properties have been honed into a high-performance whole on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, erstwhile venue for Formula One races and lauded as the world’s most challenging race track. The noteworthy lap time set by the MINI John Cooper Works GP is the product of this extensive testing programme.

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    The New BMW 3 Series Touring 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 13-05-2012 08:40 AM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. International
    3. BMW
    Article Preview

    The new BMW 3 Series Touring: Dynamic flair and practicality wrapped in a sporty and elegant design
    • Cutting-edge Touring concept combines dynamic performance, elegance and versatility in a perfectly proportioned overall package.
    • More space for passengers and luggage: 495 litres of stowage room sets the benchmark in this segment.
    • 40:20:40 folding rear seat bench (standard), rear window opens separately from automatic tailgate (standard), separate partition net and luggage compartment cover. The latter can also be stored in the underfloor compartment.
    • Modern Line, Luxury Line, Sport Line and M Sport package plus an extensive selection of assistance systems, including full-colour Head-Up Display.
    • Powerful and efficient engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, Auto Start-Stop function and ECO PRO mode, eight-speed automatic gearbox available for all models.
    • Sporty suspension with enhanced ride comfort, Electric Power Steering,
    M Sport options.
    The new edition of the BMW 3 Series Touring makes its mark in the premium sports estate segment with its hallmark BMW dynamic prowess, enhanced practicality and versatility, and a range of standard equipment features assembled to meet the challenges of everyday life. The new car’s larger interior is extremely versatile and designed to adapt to everything its customers’ modern, active lifestyles can throw at it. In this role, the new BMW 3 Series Touring convinces equally as both a sporty, elegant and dynamic way to eat up the miles and a comfortable and spacious vehicle for sports and leisure pursuits.
    Its harmonious proportions ensure the new BMW 3 Series Touring appears from every angle as if cut from a single mould and proves that impressive practicality and dynamic design need not be mutually exclusive. The sweeping silhouette with smoothly sloping roofline, side windows extending well back to the rear and a powerful rear end all combine to create a distinctive Touring character and highlight the huge potential of the new BMW 3 Series variant at first glance.


    Leading the way: more space for luggage and clever details.
    With 97 millimetres added to the car’s overall length and 50 millimetres to its wheelbase, the new BMW 3 Series Touring offers extra room for passengers and luggage alike. Plus, this space can be adapted for a variety of uses, allowing the new car to turn its hand to a range of activities. A 35-litre increase in capacity (to 495 litres) means the load compartment can offer more space than any of the Touring’s rivals. Standard equipment designed to meet the challenges of everyday life, such as the 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat bench, the automatic tailgate with separate rear window opening, the stainless steel protective strip on the comfortably low loading sill (62 centimetres from the ground), the separate partition net and a luggage compartment cover that stows away neatly into an underfloor compartment highlight the ability of the new BMW 3 Series Touring to adapt as required to the situation at hand.
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    The Champion in Touring Car Racing 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 30-04-2012 09:11 AM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. International
    3. BMW
    Article Preview

    25 years ago the BMW M3 started its unique series of victories.
    In August 1985, a rumour surfaced in motor magazine Auto-Deutschland which emanated from a new sports car. An A Group Car from BMW that was a thoroughbred racing car according to the rules but was also to be produced in a version licensed to drive on open roads for everyday use. Speculation about this dream car that could take to normal roads and was intended for the “Most dynamic among BMW 3 Series drivers" was right on target. But the pundits missed the mark about the motor-sport car by a mile on one prediction: They were convinced that anyone who “wants to be a key player in the A Team needs to be turbocharged under the bonnet”. Not true. The BMW M3 had a naturally aspirated engine. And it became the most successful touring car in the history of BMW.

    The M3 project was launched just a few months earlier. Production of the M1 mid-engine sports car had already been discontinued for some time and BMW CEO Eberhard Kuenheim commissioned a design for a successor, almost as an aside, according to legend. After one of his regular visits to Motorsport GmbH in Munich’s Preußenstraße he said, almost as he was leaving: “Mr. Rosche, we need a sporty engine for the 3 Series.” His aspiration was in good hands. Motorsport GmbH with its managing director of technical development Paul Rosche had demonstrated its expertise with the legendary 5 Series saloons driven by M engines as well as developing the Formula 1 turbo engine that powered Brazilian Nelson Piquet to win the World Championship in the Brabham BMW in 1983.

    Power source: a four-cylinder engine with 2.3 litres displacement and four-valve engineering.
    The new 3 Series engine had something in common with this: the crankcase. It originated from volume production and actually formed the basis for the two-litre engine with four cylinders. Four cylinders meant less weight and high torque, an ideal platform for a sports engine in the projected displacement class. Naturally enough, the series four-cylinder engine was much too tame for a sports engine. A comprehensive power boost was called for in order to turn the plucky daily workhorse into an athletic and sporty power unit. The BMW design engineers increased the displacement to 2.3 litres and applied a formulation that had already achieved significant successes over a period of many years: four-valve engineering. There was also another reason for the decision to opt for a four-cylinder engine and not adopt the six-cylinder engine introduced in the BMW 3 Series. The longer crankshaft in the big engine started to vibrate much earlier than the shorter four-cylinder shaft. The design engineers therefore designed the crankshaft drive of the BMW M3 with sufficient torsional stability to achieve 10,000 revolutions a minute and more. By comparison with the four-cylinder engine installed in the series vehicles, this represented an increase of more than 60 percent.

    Paul Rosche recalls: “We started work immediately. One advantage was that the big six-cylinder engine originally had the same cylinder gap as the four-cylinder engine. We therefore cut two combustion chambers off the four-cylinder head of the M88 and bolted a panel over the hole on the rear side." This meant that the new four-cylinder engine had a second forebear. The six-cylinder engine that had initially created a sensation in the M1 and had meanwhile transformed the M635CSi into one of the fastest coupés in the world. Paul Rosche: “Whether you believe it or not – we had created an outstanding four-cylinder engine for the 3 Series within the space of two weeks. Under the development name S14, this engine was to generate headlines in sport and in volume production over the years to come. One Sunday, I drove to von Kuenheim's flat and gave him the car for a test drive. When he came back he said: ‘Good, I like it.’ And that’s how the M3 came into being.”

    Contrary to the situation with the mid-engine sports car, the BMW M3 was not going to be crafted by hand in small batches. This car was to be produced as a mass-production automobile on an assembly line. It was destined to compete in near-production touring car motor sport, or more precisely as a Group A racing car, defined as a “production car”, of which at least 5,000 units have to be built within the space of twelve consecutive months in accordance with Annex J of the international automobile sport regulations.
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    The 208 GTi Concept – The Return of an Iconic Legend 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 27-02-2012 05:59 AM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. International
    3. Peugeot
    Article Preview

    Peugeot will present two expressions of the Marque's upmarket trend in the supermini segment. These concept cars interpret the generation leap already defined by the 208 but in different contexts. The XY Concept is intended for city dwellers who love distinction and refinement, whereas the GTi Concept re-generates an iconic legend.
    The LED headlamp design gives these concept cars the impression of having an iris. The rectangular headlamp units, when used on main beam, appear to have a ‘feline pupil’ … a technological and precise expression that is fully identifiable with the lion Marque.

    This precision continues with the integrated style components adorning the bodywork. Wheel arches have wing extensions, and bodywork with sills enhance the stance.


    GTi Concept: The re-generation of a legendary icon
    Instantly characterised by being the performance icon of the 208, the 208 GTi concept features chequered-flag motifs that embellish the metal mesh of the grille, and the lower bar proudly affirms its origin by displaying the French ‘Le Tricolour’ flag or the Union Jack when in the UK.


    Other distinctive exterior features include: double chromed exhaust tailpipes, aero lower bodywork spoilers and lower sill skirt extensions that all capture the signature badging. Placed within the grille is the brushed aluminium GTi Concept logo that can also be found on the rear quarter panels, as a salute to its illustrious predecessor - the legendary 205 GTi.


    On the inside, the passenger compartment is a true GTi environment, with a characteristic sports leather stitched steering wheel, the treatment of which is replicated on the sides of the gear lever, double stitching in the seats and enhanced with LED backlighting to the surrounds of the high-tech instruments. The sports seats are trimmed with Nappa leather on the outer section, and cloth in the centre with an embossed tartan motif, and a leather head restraint.


    The red perforated leather steering wheel continues the check motif, and has a pronounced lower flat section, which carries the GTi Concept logo set in an aluminium ring. To complete the sports interior, the fascia capping is dressed in Alcantara with grey stitching, the roof lining is entirely black and the pedals are aluminium. The centre console architecture and ventilation vents all feature a graduated red to black effect, and the chequered-flag theme is also present on the aluminium door crossbars.

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    BMW to Provide Official Safety Car to Armor All Bathurst 12 Hour 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 22-02-2012 01:49 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. BMW
    Article Preview

    A BMW will lead the Armor All Bathurst 12 Hour in 2012.

    BMW Australia will partner the with Armor All Bathurst 12 Hour race organisers to provide a brand-new BMW M5 to serve as the official Safety Car of the February 24-26 Event.

    The new model M5 goes on sale in Australia this month, corresponding perfectly with the timing of the increasingly international Bathurst season-starter.
    For more than 25 years the BMW M5 Sedan has defined the high-performance Sedan segment, in the process becoming the most successful car of its type in the world. Now a new fifth-generation model raises the concept of the premium executive Sedan combining track-car dynamics and supreme touring comfort to an even higher level.

    The M5 features the most powerful series production engine ever in a BMW M car, yet has 30 percent better fuel consumption than the existing model. Capable of sprinting to 100km/hr in just 4.3 seconds, the M5 boasts race-bred chassis technology that includes, for the first time, an Active M differential.

    The M5 Safety Car features several modifications including an Akrapovic titanium prototype exhaust from the catalyst back as well as KW Clubsport suspension completing the race-ready package.
    Piers Scott, BMW Group Australia Head of Corporate Communications, said the new BMW M5 spent more time in development on the world-famous Nurburgring than any other BMW M car in history and is at home on the world’s most demanding racetracks.

    “The Armor All Bathurst 12 Hour features its most exotic field yet this year and BMW Australia is looking forward to having the brand new M5 leading the way when it is required,” said Mr Scott.
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    The new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 22-02-2012 12:52 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. International
    3. Mercedes
    Article Preview

    The stage is set for the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG. The new version of the high-performance Roadster impresses on several counts: systematic lightweight construction, a boost in output and driving dynamics, and 30 percent lower fuel consumption and emissions. Thanks to an all-aluminium bodyshell, similar to that of the SLS AMG super sports car, the vehicle weight has been reduced by 125 kilograms. With a kerb weight of 1845 kilograms and an output of 395 kW (537 hp) or 415 kW (564 hp), the new model has the perfect recipe for unparalleled dynamism and a superior driving experience. A further boost in performance comes courtesy of a winning combination: enhanced AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC), new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the AMG high-performance compound brake system and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. An enticing mix of stylish design, extensive standard equipment and a high safety level.

    Ola Källenius, CEO at Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The new SL 63 AMG is yet another masterpiece from Mercedes-AMG. Be it driving dynamics, lightweight construction or efficiency – the SL 63 AMG represents a giant leap forward. Following on from the SLS AMG Roadster and the SLK 55 AMG, it now makes our unrivalled roadster family practically complete."
    Superior performance and high efficiency: the SL 63 AMG is available with a choice of two power outputs for the first time. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 'biturbo' (twin-turbocharged) engine delivers 395 kW (537 hp) and 800 Nm of torque. If the AMG Performance package is specified, these figures rise to 415 kW (564 hp) and 900 Nm – more power than any other competitor in this segment. The result is high-calibre performance, as underlined by the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 or 4.2 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 12.9 or 12.6 seconds respectively. Top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited), although this rises to 300 km/h (likewise electronically limited) with the AMG Performance package on board. NEDC combined consumption comes in at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres for both power outputs – a full 4.2 litres or 30 percent lower than for the outgoing model.

    The eight-cylinder powerplant with the abbreviation M 157 features a combination of innovative high-tech components for high power output, and it delivers exemplary, low fuel consumption. In addition to spray-guided direct petrol injection, the engine boasts an all-aluminium crankcase, twin turbochargers, four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment, air/water intercooling, alternator management and an ECO start/stop function. The weight-optimised AMG sports exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes produces a distinctive engine sound.

    The key data at a glance:



    *With AMG Performance package **Electronically limited
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    BMW Launches New 6th Generation 3 Series Sedan 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 16-02-2012 01:29 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. BMW
    Article Preview

    • New 6th generation 3 Series Sedan is lighter and larger with more interior space
    • More value, more features, more technology
    • All engines feature TwinPower Turbo technology for class leading fuel economy
    • New four-cylinder Turbo petrol engine delivers high performance for 328i and 320i
    • Eight-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stop/Start fitted as standard
    • Three distinct trim and equipment options: Sport Line, Modern Line, Luxury Line
    • Driving Experience Control offers variable dynamic set up and new ECO PRO mode
    • Three models including 335i, new 328i and 320d on sale from February
    • Entry level 318d and 320i available to order from March production
    New BMW 3 Series Sedan: sporting design, dynamic drive, superb value
    BMW has raised the benchmark for premium sporting sedans with the launch of the new 6th generation 3 Series Sedan.
    Already hailed overseas as the best in class for performance and value, the new lighter, larger 3 Series Sedan offers a stunning new sporting design aesthetic, an all TwinPower Turbo lineup of powerful and fuel efficient petrol and diesel engines, improved driving dynamics and a vast array of advanced technology at substantially lower prices than its predecessor.

    Since it made its debut in 1975, more than 12 million customers around the world have taken ownership of a BMW 3 Series, and now with the launch of the new generation 3 Series Sedan, its appeal to customers in Australia and across the globe will ensure it remains the world’s best selling premium sports sedan.

    BMW Group Australia Managing Director, Phil Horton said that as a core model in the BMW range, this latest 3 Series Sedan sets a new benchmark in the premium mid-sized market.
    “Australian customers have always appreciated the style, luxury features, advanced technology and sporty driving dynamics of the BMW 3 Series Sedan but with the vast improvements made to the new generation, BMW has made the car even more appealing,” Mr Horton said.
    “With substantial increases in power and torque with reduced fuel consumption from the all TwinPower Turbo powertrain lineup, more interior space and advanced ConnectedDrive technologies, the new BMW 3 Series Sedan offers a superlative combination of performance, efficiency, luxury and driving enjoyment.

    “At the same time, the increase in features and sharp pricing that includes a new entry point of $56,400 for the all-new 318d, makes the new generation 3 Series Sedan outstanding value for money.”

    The new BMW 3 Series Sedan goes on sale through BMW dealerships across the country in February initially launching with a three-model lineup including the range-topping 335i, the all-new 328i and the 320d. Customers also have a choice of two entry-level models, the 320i and new 318d, that will be available to order with production commencing in March.

    With its sleek new front end design that reinterprets the BMW trademark kidney grille and twin round headlights, and a longer more aerodynamic body emphasising the distinctive swept back wedge shape, the new 3 Series Sedan offers a dynamic and elegant presence on the road.
    A 50mm longer wheelbase, wider track (front + 37 mm, rear + 47 mm) and increase in overall length of 93mm, provide the new 3 Series Sedan with more interior space, especially in the rear where improved functionality includes a 40/20/40 split folding rear seat back with folding rear headrests.

    Inside, the athletic and sporty design theme continues with the driver-oriented cockpit design, swept back dash and new integrated freestanding 6.5 inch or 8.8 inch colour monitor to display all iDrive functions delivering a user-friendly and ergonomic driving environment.
    The new 3 Series Sedan range offers a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines that all feature advanced TwinPower Turbo technology for improved performance and an array of EfficientDynamics features including standard Auto Stop/Start to reduce fuel consumption to class-leading levels.

    Headlining the range is the six-cylinder 225kW/400Nm TwinPower Turbo 335i that benefits from a substantial 17 per cent improvement in fuel economy.

    The 328i is one of two models that feature a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine. Replacing the previous 325i’s six-cylinder engine, this new powerplant delivers substantially more power and torque with maximum outputs of 180kW/350Nm while reducing fuel consumption by a huge 30 per cent to just 6.3l/100km.

    The third petrol engine in the range that drives the 320i is a lower output version of the TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder unit that generates a maximum power and torque of 135kW/270Nm. Again this is a substantial increase compared to the previous generation 320i and with a low combined fuel consumption of 6.0l/100km, it ensures the 320i enjoys the class leading position for acceleration and fuel economy.
    As the fuel efficiency leaders in the range, the two four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo diesel models, 320d and the new 318d, both provide class leading fuel consumption along with plenty of performance. The maximum outputs for the 320d remain the same as the previous model at 135kW/380Nm with a significant reduction in fuel consumption to just 4.5l/100km. The new price-leading 318d shares the same frugal fuel consumption figure while offering a power output of 105kW and maximum 320Nm of torque.

    In a first for the class, BMW has introduced an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard across the range with all but the entry-level 318d featuring a Sports Automatic with steering wheel mounted paddle-shifters. Combined with other BMW EfficientDynamics technologies including the standard Auto Stop/Start and Brake Energy Regeneration, the new 3 Series Sedan sees the introduction of an ECO PRO mode for the new Driving Experience Control to further improve driving efficiency.
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    The Audi RS 4 Avant 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 16-02-2012 01:25 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. International
    3. Audi
    Article Preview

    • V8 powerplant with 331kW, 430 Nm
    • High-performance brakes with wave discs
    • Unique combination of dynamics and everyday practicality
    A modern classic from Audi is making a comeback: the third-generation RS 4 Avant combines potent performance with a high level of everyday practicality. The 4.2-litre V8 produces 331 kW; the seven-speed S tronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive transfers that power to the road.

    The Audi RS 4 Avant uses the same high-revving, normally aspirated V8 engine that powers the RS 5 Coupe. The 4,163cc powerplant produces 331 kW at 8,250rpm. Its maximum torque of 430 Nm is available from 4,000 to 6,000 rpm. The responsive V8 with its red-painted cylinder head covers accelerates the RS 4 Avant from zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds on its way to a governed top speed of 250 km/h. This can be increased to 280 km/h upon request.
    Hand-built at Audi’s plant in Györ, Hungary, the 4.2 FSI engine combines its impressive power with exemplary efficiency, consuming on average less than 11 litres of fuel per 100 km.
    With its high efficiency and long top gear, the standard seven-speed S tronic also contributes to the vehicle’s good fuel economy. Drivers can let the lightning-fast dual-clutch transmission shift automatically or change gears manually using the selector lever or the paddles on the steering wheel. For explosive starts, drivers can also activate Launch Control, which manages the engagement of the clutch at an optimum starting speed and minimum wheel slip.

    Top traction: quattro drive with crown-gear centre differential
    Like every RS model from Audi, the RS 4 Avant comes standard with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The heart of this system is the crown-gear centre differential. This compact and lightweight component can vary the distribution of power between the front and rear axles immediately, smoothly and over a wide range, with up to 70 percent flowing to the front or as much as 85 percent to the rear. The default 40:60 ratio of the rear-biased configuration ensures sporty handling.
    The self-locking crown-gear centre differential works together with the torque vectoring system, which acts on all four wheels. If the load on the inside wheel is reduced too much while the car is being driven dynamically, the torque vectoring system brakes it slightly before unintended slip can occur. Audi offers the sport differential, which uses two superposition stages to actively distribute the power between the rear wheels, as an option.

    Aluminium in abundance: the chassis
    The chassis of the Audi RS 4 Avant is a very complex design. Many components of the five-link front suspension and the self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension are made of aluminium. The new speed-dependent power steering is a highly efficient electromechanical system with a direct steering ratio for highly precise road feel. It helps the driver stay on course by making slight steering corrections when braking on surfaces with different amounts of grip.
    The taut RS setup lowers the body by 20 millimetres (0.79 in) compared with the Audi A4 Avant. New, polished 19-inch, ten-spoke forged aluminium wheels shod with 265/35-series tires are standard. Audi also offers 20-inch wheels with 265/30-series tires. These are available in a new, polished, titanium-look, five-V-spoke design plus two additional variants in the five-arm rotor design.
    Mounted behind the large wheels are internally vented wave disc brakes measuring 365 millimetres in diameter up front. The steel friction rings with their wave-like outer contour are perforated and connected to the aluminium brake caps via pins. This concept reduces tensions, quickly dissipates heat and prevents transmission of temperature peaks. The new shape of the friction rings shaves a total of roughly three kilograms off the unsprung weight.
    The calipers are painted high-gloss black; the front calipers have eight pistons each and sport RS logos. The ESP stabilisation system has a Sport mode and can be fully deactivated. For the front axle, Audi offers the option of 380 millimetre carbonfibre ceramic discs and six-piston calipers in anthracite gray. The ceramic brakes are especially lightweight, robust and durable.
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    Even More Dynamic: The Audi TT RS Plus 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 13-02-2012 04:36 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. International
    3. Audi
    Article Preview

    • Coupé and Roadster boosted to 265 kW
    • Zero to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds; top speed increased to 280 km/h
    • Average fuel consumption just 8.5 litres per 100 km
    Even more powerful, even faster, even more dynamic: meet the Audi TT RS plus. This compact sports car, in both Coupé and Roadster versions, stands out for its awe-inspiring performance. Its power-boosted five-cylinder turbo delivers 265 kW, sufficient for a top speed of 280 km/h.

    The 2.5-litre TFSI in the Audi TT RS plus is a high-performance engine. Compared with the engine on which it is based, this turbocharged direct-injection unit delivers 15 kW more power. It produces 465 Nm of torque, 15 Nm more than before. Customers can choose between a manual six-speed transmission and the seven-speed S tronic with its lightning-fast gearshifts. The dual-clutch transmission comes with a launch control function which optimizes acceleration from a standing start. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, which operates with a multi-plate clutch, transfers engine power to the road in supreme style.

    The TT RS plus unites dynamics and efficiency in a most impressive way. Against the backdrop of the five-cylinder engine’s characteristic roaring and growling, the Coupé with S tronic catapults from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds (with manual transmission: 4.3 seconds). The Roadster completes the same exercise in 4.2 seconds (with manual transmission: 4.4 seconds). Top speed is limited to 280 km/h for all versions of the car. The Coupé with S tronic uses an average of just 8.5 litres of fuel per 100 km; the Roadster uses 8.6 litres per 100 km.

    Alongside numerous efficiency-improving measures, these top figures are due primarily to the extremely lightweight Audi Space Frame (ASF) bodies made of aluminium at the front and sheet steel at the rear. The Coupé with manual transmission, including quattro drive, weighs just 1,450 kilograms; its power-to-weight ratio is 5.5 kilograms per kilowatt.
    The high-performance brake system is able to cope with the engine’s power at all times. Four-piston fixed calipers in conjunction with perforated brake disks are installed on the front axle. The Audi TT RS plus is fitted with 19-inch cast wheels of five-arm “Rotor” design; they are painted black with contrasting red rim flanges. The wheels are fitted with 255/35 tyres. The adaptive damping system known as Audi magnetic ride is also available. A large, fixed rear wing increases downforce at the back of the car.
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