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Vector Menace Tower Defense
Description Game:
Use four type of towers to destroy the falling vectors.(Visited 9 times, 1 visits today)
Thứ Năm, 6 tháng 12, 2012
FWG Pursuit Car
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FWG Pursuit Car
Description Game:
After robbing a bank try to escape from the police driving through city streets and drop the money off at key check points, then get to your hideaway before the police catch you.How to play Game:
Chủ Nhật, 21 tháng 10, 2012
Badass Builder
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Game description: Shoot all the attacking enemies from all sides as you pickup new weapons to help you defend yourself
Game controls: Use mouse to aim and shoot.WASD or Arrow keys to move.
3D Pool
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| pool games
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3D Pool
Description Game:
Ever play pool in a 3d room? Here is your chance to polish up on your pool game, 3d style!(Visited 22 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
Mouse13 Days in Hell
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| gun games |
13 Days in Hell
Description Game:
Shoot the incoming minions of hell. Shoot them in the head to save bullets. Don’t let them chop you!(Visited 11 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
Mouse - Aim / Shoot. 1-5 / Mouse Wheel - Select Weapons. R - Spacebar - Reload.UFC Fighting Difference
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| fighting games
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UFC Fighting Difference
Description Game:
UFC Fighting Difference is a brand new free online fighting game, where you have to find the difference. In this fun game there are two pictures of a UFC Fighters. The pictures look like the same, but they are not completely the same. Your job is to find the differences between the two pictures as quickly as you can. There are totally five differences that you have to find in the given time or you will lose the game. Or you can remove the time and play without rush. When you find the differences click on them with your mouse. Try not to make mistakes; if you click five times in the wrong place you will lose the game. You can turn the music on or off by clicking on the speaker. If you find all five differences on the first two pictures you can go to the next level. Finding the differences are harder and harder as you proceed through the levels. Find this game on the net and start playing; you will like it a lot!How to play Game:
This game is played by mouse only.Batman Vs Superman
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| batman games
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Batman Vs Superman
Description Game:
Play basketball with batman or superman on basketball tournament. First you pick up you character to play basketball with. When the game start, the basket will be moving, so you need to use your mouse to stop the basket and throw the ball.(Visited 13 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
This game is played with mouse only.Thứ Bảy, 20 tháng 10, 2012
Batter’s Up Base Ball Math
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| coolmath4kids
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Batter’s Up Base Ball Math
Description Game:
Batter’s Up Baseball is a math game that is played like real Baseball. When the math game starts you will see the visitors score on the screen. Your goal is to beat the visitors score and win the baseball game.(Visited 15 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
Mouse - InteractionFire It Up
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| basketball games
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Fire It Up
Description Game:
Score points by making baskets from the hot spot. Baskets only count if your player shoots from the hot spot.(Visited 4 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
Arrow Keys - Move. Spacebar - Shoot.Bike Stunts
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| dirt bike games
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Bike Stunts
Description Game:
Get points for each stunt you do. See if you really are the best!How to play Game:
Barbie Parking
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| disney cars |
Barbie Parking
Description Game:
Help barbie in parking her car.Arrange the blocks to make a route to parking area.Click Play when you are done to clear the level.Click reset button to start over again.Use mouse to play. Enjoy!(Visited 6 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
Use mouse to click and rotate.Happy Super Doraemon
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Happy Super Doraemon
Description Game:
Select your favorite bike to take ride with Doraemon. Balance your wheels and control your bike with exciting levels to finish. Collect points to score. Enjoy Ride!How to play Game:
Use arrow keys.Play Ben 10 Mathrix
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| Cool math for kids |
Play Ben 10 Mathrix
Description Game:
Hi,kids, are you good at maths? If you get the right answer, the little warrior will turn to super hero. Can you keep him as a super hero?(Visited 49 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
This game is played with mouse only.Thứ Tư, 12 tháng 9, 2012
Grandma's Kitchen 2
Game Info - Grandma wants you
propose four fantastic new recipes to prepare delicious dishes. We all
know that the food prepared by grandmothers are quite different. Follow
the advice given to prepare the dishes. At first you can test your
skills only for a recipe. Only after you unlock the others. Prepare a
chocolate milkshake, omelets and more.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Tactics 100 Live
Game Info - Build your own army
of different fighting units that fit your fighting style and send that
army into battle. The way you attack affects the outcome. You can attack
from high ground, at point blank, among others. Good luck!
Game controls - Mouse - To interact.
Game controls - Mouse - To interact.
Vanessa Hot Kiss
Game Info - LEVEL 1 You have an
opportunity to kiss VENESSA You can kiss her to fill the loader with in
the time duration to go to the next level. (SShh! You can kiss her where
ever you like) LEVEL 2 Here you should help ZAC EFRON get closer to
VENESSA and let them to kiss to fill the loader
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Cleaning Day At Alma Mater
Game Info - Picturesque hidden object online free game by Hidden-Object-Online.com
There is a cleaning day at the university. The students tidy up the library, lab and at the front door. Help them to find the hidden objects and put in order, there is a list of the objects that should be found, click at them with the mouse, when all objects are crossed out, escape the room and go to another. The great graphics and three levels at this free escape room game.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
There is a cleaning day at the university. The students tidy up the library, lab and at the front door. Help them to find the hidden objects and put in order, there is a list of the objects that should be found, click at them with the mouse, when all objects are crossed out, escape the room and go to another. The great graphics and three levels at this free escape room game.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Sáu, 7 tháng 9, 2012
Highway Madness
Game Info - Perform delivery
missions in this game. Drive a car along the road with heavy traffic.
Avoid colliding, collect and try to perform the mission.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Control the car.
Spacebar - Emergency brake.
Z - Boost.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Control the car.
Spacebar - Emergency brake.
Z - Boost.
Naruto Bomb 2
Game Info - Part 2 of the cool game Naruto theme Bomberman game.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move.
Spacebar - Drop Bomb.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move.
Spacebar - Drop Bomb.
Helistorm 2
Game Info - Guide your helicopter to meet the objectives.
Game controls - 1 - Select Guns.
2 - Select Missile.
W - Turbo.
A - Straff Right.
D - Straff Left.
S - Shield.
Mouse - To move and fire.
P - Option.
Game controls - 1 - Select Guns.
2 - Select Missile.
W - Turbo.
A - Straff Right.
D - Straff Left.
S - Shield.
Mouse - To move and fire.
P - Option.
Travel In Style
Game Info - She is a fashionable girl who loves to travel and collect beauty accessories. Pick the right choice for her.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Sort My Tiles Mickey and Minnie
Game Info - Mickey and Minnie is on a date and needed to be sorted out.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Thứ Tư, 5 tháng 9, 2012
Antbuster
Game Info - Defend your cake against the ants.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Tom and Jerry online Coloring
Game Info - Paint your Tom and Jerry Online Coloring Page with your favorite colors.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Pirates Kiss
Game Info - Make the Pirate
Couple, who are actually in a cursed Pirate boat, kiss.. Avoid
interventions created by the Skull, the Lightning and the Moonlight in
their respective order of levels. Do Not Kiss when they appear. Fill the
Kissing Loader within the time limit.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Robots War
Game Info - Defeat all enemy robots.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move / Aim.
A - Shoot.
s - Jump.
D - Launch Bomb.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move / Aim.
A - Shoot.
s - Jump.
D - Launch Bomb.
Easy Joe
Game Info - Look at each scene and click on things to get Joe to be able to pass. Short, but creative.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Hai, 3 tháng 9, 2012
Breach Game
Game Info - Attention you hard-boiled mercenary soldiers out there! Breach is one badass arcade action game!
Game controls - W, A, S, D / Arrow Keys - Move.
Spacebar - Shoot.
Game controls - W, A, S, D / Arrow Keys - Move.
Spacebar - Shoot.
Code Lyoko: Monster Swarm
Game Info - Swarms had infiltrated the jungle and it's up to Lyoko to stop the all.
Game controls - Z to attack.
X to throw fan.
Arrow keys to move.
Game controls - Z to attack.
X to throw fan.
Arrow keys to move.
Cooking Show - Russian Salad
Game Info - Learn how to cook and prepare Russian style salad.
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact.
Yantra: A Story of Revenge
Game Info - Avenge your clan by killing the shadow demons that burned your village to the ground.
Game controls - Arrow left/right- To move left/right.
Arrow up- To jump.
Arrow down- To teleport(use chakra).
A- To throw shuriken.
S- To punch.(replenish chakra every hit)
Q- To heal.(you must buy this skill)
W- Perfrom Jutsu(uses a lot of chakra)
1-5 keys- Select Jutsu to perform, purchase more jutsu using gained skill points.
Game controls - Arrow left/right- To move left/right.
Arrow up- To jump.
Arrow down- To teleport(use chakra).
A- To throw shuriken.
S- To punch.(replenish chakra every hit)
Q- To heal.(you must buy this skill)
W- Perfrom Jutsu(uses a lot of chakra)
1-5 keys- Select Jutsu to perform, purchase more jutsu using gained skill points.
Photographer Dress up
Game Info - Dress this young photographer in a nice clothes.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Chủ Nhật, 2 tháng 9, 2012
Robot Boy Depth Charger
Game Info - Activate lasers and start shooting all the sinking depth charges. Use your shield if there's a lot.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move.
Z - Activate Laser Cannons.
X - Activate Force Field.
Spacebar - Fire.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move.
Z - Activate Laser Cannons.
X - Activate Force Field.
Spacebar - Fire.
Cooking Show Breadrolls
Game Info - This game will teach you how to cook and how to prepare the right ingredients.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
New Collection Dress Up
Game Info - The new collection is in stores! Try every possible combination on this girl.
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact.
Michael Jackson Dance
Game Info - This is it the last tour of Michael Jackson and he will show the world what The King of Pop really made off.
Game controls - Use arrow keys to dance.
Game controls - Use arrow keys to dance.
Thứ Bảy, 1 tháng 9, 2012
Monkey Trouble 2
Game Info - Make lines of 3 or more of the same color to pop them!
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Skyline Soccer
Game Info - Kick the soccer ball from player to player as you hit stars, balloons, and people.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Jane's Hotel - Family Hero
Game Info - Take care of your customers once again as you upgrade your hotel and it becomes super busy!
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact
Battlefield General
Game Info - It's the Qin Dynasty
in ancient China. Your mission is to accumulate as much gold as
possible in each of your own war campaigns to help the emperor build the
Great Wall. So gear up your army, pacify the lands, make as much gold
as possible, conquer and survive to show them you are the battlefield
general! Good luck!
Game controls - Mouse - To interact.
Arrow Keys - To scroll around landscape.
M - Map.
1 - Select all swordsmen.
2 - Select all pikemen.
3 - Select all archers.
4 - Select all cavalry units.
5 - Select all canon units.
Game controls - Mouse - To interact.
Arrow Keys - To scroll around landscape.
M - Map.
1 - Select all swordsmen.
2 - Select all pikemen.
3 - Select all archers.
4 - Select all cavalry units.
5 - Select all canon units.
Animals In The City
Game Info - This test will reveal your party-animal mood for each day!
Game controls - Use your mouse to select the image which fits you best. After 10 questions, you will know in what kind of animal mood you are today!
Game controls - Use your mouse to select the image which fits you best. After 10 questions, you will know in what kind of animal mood you are today!
Thứ Tư, 1 tháng 8, 2012
Big Bob's Burger Joint
Game description: Make delicious burgers to earn lots of money.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Blank and Red Dressup
Game description: Design a perfect look for this sweet girl,try on different types of hairstyles and clothes.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Safe Mode
Game description: Observe traffic rules and collect all the signs to accumulate points
Game controls: Up Arrow Key - Accelerate. Left / Right Arrow Keys - Turn. Down Arrow Key - Brake. Spacebar - Horn.
Game controls: Up Arrow Key - Accelerate. Left / Right Arrow Keys - Turn. Down Arrow Key - Brake. Spacebar - Horn.
Thứ Hai, 16 tháng 7, 2012
Karine Dressup
Game description: Help Karine choose some nice everyday clothes!
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Shirts and Jeans Dress up
Game description: Help her choose nice jeans and a top.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Teenage Fashion
Game description: Help this cute teenage school girl brush up her fashion style.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Thứ Ba, 26 tháng 6, 2012
Fashion Trend Shorts
Game description: Dress up this cute and glamorous girl with some girly fashion and accessories.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Sponge Bob Square Pants: Plankton's Krusty Bottom Weekly
Game description: Take
photos of Bikini Bottom's inhabitants when they are the goofiest. Visit
the various areas and keep a watchful eye for hilarious situations.
You'll have 3 seconds to center your picture by moving the mouse.
Game controls: Space bar- to take a photograph. Mouse/Left click- To take snapshot/Interact with objects.
Game controls: Space bar- to take a photograph. Mouse/Left click- To take snapshot/Interact with objects.
Robot War Strategy
Game description: Send your robots out in waves on certain paths to attack the incoming enemy robots. Upgrade and more.
Game controls: Up / Down Arrow Keys - Change the start position. Left / Right Arrow Keys - Change the robot type. Spacebar - Release the robot.
Game controls: Up / Down Arrow Keys - Change the start position. Left / Right Arrow Keys - Change the robot type. Spacebar - Release the robot.
Thứ Ba, 19 tháng 6, 2012
Sort My Tiles Tom and Jerry
Game description: help them to sort out there ongoing dispute
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Right Dress
Game description: Choose the right dress, wig, shoe and makeup and the score will tell if you did well on choosing her style.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Park Shop
Game description: You
are running an ice cream shop near a park, where you will have to sell
ice cream and juice to kids. Whenever a kid demands an ice dream, juice
or milk shake, you will have to prepare and serve them.
Game controls: Use Mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use Mouse to interact.
Thứ Bảy, 16 tháng 6, 2012
Back From Shopping
Game description: She took advantage of her vacation to shop for nice dress and fashion accessories. Try out those dress on her.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Sift Heads 3
Game description: Solve Puzzles, Fight and shoot your
way through another Sift Heads game. Play as Vinnie once again and take
out everything in your way!
Game controls: Left click mouse- To attack. W Key- To jump. A key- To move left. D key- To move right. S key- Block/Action button. E key- Reload weapon. Q- Change weapon.
Game controls: Left click mouse- To attack. W Key- To jump. A key- To move left. D key- To move right. S key- Block/Action button. E key- Reload weapon. Q- Change weapon.
Word Search 1
Game description: Click, drag and find the words hidden
in the puzzle to clear them from the words list. Game ends if you find
them all. Choose from a wide variety of categories. Enjoy solving the
puzzle!
Game controls: Mouse - To interact.
Game controls: Mouse - To interact.
Thứ Bảy, 2 tháng 6, 2012
Ninja Frog
Game description: Guide Kaeru, the prince turned Frog
turned Ninja through 48 levels of deadly puzzles and crazy acrobatics.
Will you gather the magical gems that will break the witch's curse and
return him to his human form?
Game controls: Mouse key = Aim/Jump Space bar = Pickup/Throw Objects M = Mute P = Pause R = Reset
Game controls: Mouse key = Aim/Jump Space bar = Pickup/Throw Objects M = Mute P = Pause R = Reset
Cars vs Guns
Game description: In a world invaded by cars, your job
is to ensure that they can`t access your resources of gas. Use your
heavy and powerful guns to destroy all the cars. Upgrade your guns as
much as you can because is the only way you can survive. Try to last
until the last car is destroyed.
Game controls: This game is played by mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played by mouse only.
Christmas-Bubbles
Game description: This super fun bubble busting game
will have you wanting more! Make sure you are fast! Match 3 bubbles or
more of the same kind in a fast time and you will win!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Galactic 123 Frontline
Game description: Galactic 123 Frontline – This game
features an anime styled science fiction story where two old friends
part ways and end up in rival factions. The Planetian Republic is at
danger. This is an action game, where the player gets to use laser guns,
pistols and rifles against ground enemies. The player also gets to
participate in space battles. Story will be told in several episodes.
Game controls: nstructions Use Arrow keys or WASD keys to move. Space bar or Z to fire. 1-3 to switch weapons. H to use healthpack.
Game controls: nstructions Use Arrow keys or WASD keys to move. Space bar or Z to fire. 1-3 to switch weapons. H to use healthpack.
Crescent Solitaire
Game description: The object of the game is to move all of the cards from outer piles onto the central foundation area.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Hidden Numbers Shopping Mall II
Game description: Find the numbers hidden in the Shopping Mall.A correct hit adds 100 points whereas a wrong guess deducts 100 points
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Bảy, 26 tháng 5, 2012
Sasha's Health Spa
Game description: Run a spa shop. Keep your customers happy and relaxed to earn the most money.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Real 3D Pool
Game description: Finally - a pool table that will fit
into any home! Play 8-ball, 9-ball, 10-ball, cowboy or golf pool in
eight exotic environments. Crisp 3D graphics make you feel like you're
right on the felt. And you'll be amazed with the game's super-realistic
physics.
Game controls: Play with mouse.
Game controls: Play with mouse.
Personal Shopper 3
Game description: Find all the hidding objects that are shown below within the shopping scene. Don't get stuck!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Brittany Birt: Hotel Job
Game description: Brittany Birt is going to earn more
money again and this time she is working as a hotel manager. Your task
is to help Brittany to run the hotel and serve all the visitors. There
are 3 levels in this game.
Game controls: This game is played by mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played by mouse only.
New Year Shopping Dress Up
Game description: A beautiful collection of New Year
Shopping Girl are about to amaze you in this cool dress up game. Have
fun choosing the best dress!
Game controls: Use mouse to play the game.
Game controls: Use mouse to play the game.
Romantic Date Difference Game
Game description: Follow the story of Jessie’s first
romantic date and have fun while discovering the differences between the
sets of images! Jessie is a chic teenage girl who’s preparing to meet a
handsome boy who asked her for a date. She is so happy and wants to
look perfect for him! Find out what happens till the end by finding the
differences between the images in each level. Good luck to you and
enjoy!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Bảy, 3 tháng 3, 2012
Skoda Joyster concept (2006): first official pictures
Skoda Joyster: the lowdown
This is the Joyster, the hideously-named, beautifully-designed precursor to a Citroen C2 rival from Skoda. The Czechs are exploring a cheap city car aimed at young customers, which would sit in the range beneath the five-door Fabia. Skoda is hoping to lead development of this car, which could be paired with Volkswagen's Fox replacement and perhaps a new Seat. Just don’t expect anything before 2009 at the earliest.
How it looks
Great, quite frankly. The sub-4m Joyster is compact, muscular and the body has more sculpture than Henry Moore. Some of the design cues are shared with the imminent new Fabia, such as the face, blacked out windscreen pillars and swept up rear window. The chrome grille is trad Skoda, but the LED headlamps, contoured bonnet and detailed radiator grille give the nose a handsome yet assertive look. The rear screen is underlined by a striking lamp bar. This section divides in two, with the fold-down tailgate incorporating fold up seats so that you can sit al fresco.
This is the Joyster, the hideously-named, beautifully-designed precursor to a Citroen C2 rival from Skoda. The Czechs are exploring a cheap city car aimed at young customers, which would sit in the range beneath the five-door Fabia. Skoda is hoping to lead development of this car, which could be paired with Volkswagen's Fox replacement and perhaps a new Seat. Just don’t expect anything before 2009 at the earliest.
How it looks
Great, quite frankly. The sub-4m Joyster is compact, muscular and the body has more sculpture than Henry Moore. Some of the design cues are shared with the imminent new Fabia, such as the face, blacked out windscreen pillars and swept up rear window. The chrome grille is trad Skoda, but the LED headlamps, contoured bonnet and detailed radiator grille give the nose a handsome yet assertive look. The rear screen is underlined by a striking lamp bar. This section divides in two, with the fold-down tailgate incorporating fold up seats so that you can sit al fresco.
Toyota Auris concept (2006): first official pictures
Toyota Auris: the lowdown
Toyota has killed off the Corolla name in Europe and replaced it with the all new Auris, in a move reminiscent of Ford's Escort to Focus switch. Although the Auris is billed as a concept, it's production ready bar a few minor details. What you see here is what you'll get when the three- and five-door hatches arrive in uk showrooms early next year. Expect a slight price rise; the Auris will kick off around £11,500.
Why the name change?
Stung by criticism of the utterly forgettable outgoing car Toyota decided on a clean sheet change with the mark eleven - hence the name change. That said, the Corolla name will still continue outside of Europe, and be used for the saloon version sold in the US and Japan.
Toyota has killed off the Corolla name in Europe and replaced it with the all new Auris, in a move reminiscent of Ford's Escort to Focus switch. Although the Auris is billed as a concept, it's production ready bar a few minor details. What you see here is what you'll get when the three- and five-door hatches arrive in uk showrooms early next year. Expect a slight price rise; the Auris will kick off around £11,500.
Why the name change?
Stung by criticism of the utterly forgettable outgoing car Toyota decided on a clean sheet change with the mark eleven - hence the name change. That said, the Corolla name will still continue outside of Europe, and be used for the saloon version sold in the US and Japan.
Audi TT roadster (2006): first official pictures
New Audi TT roadster: the lowdown
Here it is – the drop-top version of Audi's new TT. Bigger yet lighter, stiffer and faster, UK customers can order the roadster from November, with deliveries following in spring 2007. Prices start at £26,915 for the 2.0-litre turbo version, with the other launch model – running the 3.2-litre V6 – costing £31,535.
New TT: staying soft top
Audi hasn't been bitten by the folding tin-top bug. The roadster retains a fully insulated fabric roof with heated glass screen. On UK launch cars games, the hood is power-operated. It folds in 12sec, and drivers can operate it at speeds of up to 30mph. A standard wind deflector can be deployed at the push of a button. Available in black and grey, the roof stows more compactly than its predecessor. Some 250 litres of luggage can be swallowed, with the roof down. Thanks to its fabric roof and 58 percent aluminium construction, the fourpot TT roadster is 30kg lighter than the Mk1. It's twice as stiff, however, which should sharpen handling and boost refinement. Audi has strengthened the A-pillars and added twin rollover hoops, to boost safety.
Here it is – the drop-top version of Audi's new TT. Bigger yet lighter, stiffer and faster, UK customers can order the roadster from November, with deliveries following in spring 2007. Prices start at £26,915 for the 2.0-litre turbo version, with the other launch model – running the 3.2-litre V6 – costing £31,535.
New TT: staying soft top
Audi hasn't been bitten by the folding tin-top bug. The roadster retains a fully insulated fabric roof with heated glass screen. On UK launch cars games, the hood is power-operated. It folds in 12sec, and drivers can operate it at speeds of up to 30mph. A standard wind deflector can be deployed at the push of a button. Available in black and grey, the roof stows more compactly than its predecessor. Some 250 litres of luggage can be swallowed, with the roof down. Thanks to its fabric roof and 58 percent aluminium construction, the fourpot TT roadster is 30kg lighter than the Mk1. It's twice as stiff, however, which should sharpen handling and boost refinement. Audi has strengthened the A-pillars and added twin rollover hoops, to boost safety.
Fiat unveils new saloon and hot Panda
Fiat has revealed two new cars: a sleek saloon to take on the four-door Focus and a flagship Panda.
The Linea is a new 4.6m-long saloon, a size pegged between the Focus and current Mondeo. Its generous wheelbase, only 150mm shorter than a Mondeo's, should guarantee decent legroom for rear passengers.
A big boot can accommodate 500 litres of luggage. Despite its size and upmarket look, the Linea will be pitched against C-segment saloons such as the Focus and Megane. It's spun off the Grande Punto's platform, with a half metre stretch from the extended wheelbase and additional boot. The Linea is not currently planned for UK sale; instead the Turkish built car will head for markets such as China and South Africa, although some southern European markets will take the saloon.
Fiat has also announced the Punto 100HP, which hits UK showrooms in December and will cost £9995. Engineers have fettled the chassis with a stiffer suspension and disc brakes front and rear. The souped up shopping trolley is named after its power output – a handy 25bhp more than the next pokiest Panda. Power comes from a 1.4-litre naturally aspirated four, sending its power to the front wheels via a six-speed manual 'box. This Panda can complete the 0-62mph dash in under 10sec, and touch 115mph. There's even a 'sport' button, which heightens steering and throttle response when pressed.
Hot hatch styling tweaks include pumped up wheelarches, deeper side skirts and a chrome tailpipe. The door handles and wing mirrors are also body coloured, while the Panda 100HP rolls on 15inch alloys. Inside, the warm hatch gets leather steering wheel and gear knob, climate control and height adjustable driving seat – so at least you can pretend you're sitting in a low slung racer.
The Linea is a new 4.6m-long saloon, a size pegged between the Focus and current Mondeo. Its generous wheelbase, only 150mm shorter than a Mondeo's, should guarantee decent legroom for rear passengers.
A big boot can accommodate 500 litres of luggage. Despite its size and upmarket look, the Linea will be pitched against C-segment saloons such as the Focus and Megane. It's spun off the Grande Punto's platform, with a half metre stretch from the extended wheelbase and additional boot. The Linea is not currently planned for UK sale; instead the Turkish built car will head for markets such as China and South Africa, although some southern European markets will take the saloon.
Fiat has also announced the Punto 100HP, which hits UK showrooms in December and will cost £9995. Engineers have fettled the chassis with a stiffer suspension and disc brakes front and rear. The souped up shopping trolley is named after its power output – a handy 25bhp more than the next pokiest Panda. Power comes from a 1.4-litre naturally aspirated four, sending its power to the front wheels via a six-speed manual 'box. This Panda can complete the 0-62mph dash in under 10sec, and touch 115mph. There's even a 'sport' button, which heightens steering and throttle response when pressed.
Hot hatch styling tweaks include pumped up wheelarches, deeper side skirts and a chrome tailpipe. The door handles and wing mirrors are also body coloured, while the Panda 100HP rolls on 15inch alloys. Inside, the warm hatch gets leather steering wheel and gear knob, climate control and height adjustable driving seat – so at least you can pretend you're sitting in a low slung racer.
Toyota Auris (2006): first official pictures
Toyota Auris: the lowdown
Toyota today unveils the production version of the Auris, the Corolla replacement which goes on UK sale in February 2007. The production car is almost identical to the Auris concept , unveiled at September's Paris motor show. Indeed, a new front bumper design and revised headlamp graphics are the only changes. Toyota has announced that five engines will be available at launch: three diesels and two petrols. And the lid has also been lifted on the Auris' interior. With its generous dimensions, the hatch should almost match a Focus for space, while some details – flat rear floor, high-mounted gearshift – are borrowed from the last generation Honda Civic.
Diesel power
The diesel's acceptance as Europe's favourite powertrain continues. It was only six years ago that Toyota introduced its first common-rail diesel engine; this car will launch with more D-4D units than petrol engines. The flagship unit is the 2.2-litre D-4D, shared with the Lexus IS oilburner. With 175bhp and 295lb ft of torque on tap, the Auris is swept to 62mph in 8.1sec and onto a top speed of 130mph. The 124bhp 2.0-litre isn't too far behind, with 0-62mph in 10.3sec and 121mph flat out. Both diesels are mated to a six-speed manual transmission. The entry-level unit is a 1.4-litre D-4D, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission or paddleshift clutchless manual. Peak outputs are 89bhp and 140lb ft; 0-62mph takes 12.0sec with the manual, or a glacial 14.7sec with the 'MultiMode' 'box.
Toyota today unveils the production version of the Auris, the Corolla replacement which goes on UK sale in February 2007. The production car is almost identical to the Auris concept , unveiled at September's Paris motor show. Indeed, a new front bumper design and revised headlamp graphics are the only changes. Toyota has announced that five engines will be available at launch: three diesels and two petrols. And the lid has also been lifted on the Auris' interior. With its generous dimensions, the hatch should almost match a Focus for space, while some details – flat rear floor, high-mounted gearshift – are borrowed from the last generation Honda Civic.
Diesel power
The diesel's acceptance as Europe's favourite powertrain continues. It was only six years ago that Toyota introduced its first common-rail diesel engine; this car will launch with more D-4D units than petrol engines. The flagship unit is the 2.2-litre D-4D, shared with the Lexus IS oilburner. With 175bhp and 295lb ft of torque on tap, the Auris is swept to 62mph in 8.1sec and onto a top speed of 130mph. The 124bhp 2.0-litre isn't too far behind, with 0-62mph in 10.3sec and 121mph flat out. Both diesels are mated to a six-speed manual transmission. The entry-level unit is a 1.4-litre D-4D, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission or paddleshift clutchless manual. Peak outputs are 89bhp and 140lb ft; 0-62mph takes 12.0sec with the manual, or a glacial 14.7sec with the 'MultiMode' 'box.
BMW 3-series convertible (2006): first official pictures
BMW 3-series convertible: the lowdown
Here's the car BMW said it wouldn't develop: a 3-series convertible with a folding hard-top. Although condemned by the R&D team for being too heavy, raising the centre of gravity and sapping dynamic ability, BMW has been forced to listen to the market and introduce a glass and steel-roofed cabrio. With a large boot and easy access for luggage, the 3-series convertible promises to be practical, and the extra glass compared with a fabric cabrio should make it airy too. Sun reflective leather is a claimed world first, too. But despite 'near 50:50 weight distribution', will the roof compromise BMW's ultimate driving machine mantra? The 3-series convertible goes on UK sale in March. Two six-cylinder petrol engines will be available at launch: the naturally aspirated 2.5- and the 3.0-litre twin-turbo. The 325i will cost £33,030, the 335i £37,895.
Plenty of performance
Until we drive it, we won't know if folding roof has impaired the 3-series coupe's decent dynamics. But one thing's for sure: the 335i won't disappoint in a straight line. The flagship model – until the V8-powered M3 arrives – runs BMW's new twin turbocharged 3.0-litre, tested by CAR Online in the 335i coupe. Delivering 306bhp and 295lb ft of torque, the blown petrol six despatches the 0-62mph sprint in 5.8sec. That's just 0.3sec slower than the lighter 335i coupe. Top speed is electronically reined in to 155mph. The other launch engine is the 2.5-litre naturally aspirated six, yielding 218bhp and 200lb ft. The 0-62mph dash takes 7.6sec, fuel consumption is a claimed 35.8mpg on the combined cycle and v-max is 152mph. Both engines are mated to a standard six-speed manual, with a six-speed auto, with quicker shifts than before and paddleshift manual over-ride, optional.
Here's the car BMW said it wouldn't develop: a 3-series convertible with a folding hard-top. Although condemned by the R&D team for being too heavy, raising the centre of gravity and sapping dynamic ability, BMW has been forced to listen to the market and introduce a glass and steel-roofed cabrio. With a large boot and easy access for luggage, the 3-series convertible promises to be practical, and the extra glass compared with a fabric cabrio should make it airy too. Sun reflective leather is a claimed world first, too. But despite 'near 50:50 weight distribution', will the roof compromise BMW's ultimate driving machine mantra? The 3-series convertible goes on UK sale in March. Two six-cylinder petrol engines will be available at launch: the naturally aspirated 2.5- and the 3.0-litre twin-turbo. The 325i will cost £33,030, the 335i £37,895.
Plenty of performance
Until we drive it, we won't know if folding roof has impaired the 3-series coupe's decent dynamics. But one thing's for sure: the 335i won't disappoint in a straight line. The flagship model – until the V8-powered M3 arrives – runs BMW's new twin turbocharged 3.0-litre, tested by CAR Online in the 335i coupe. Delivering 306bhp and 295lb ft of torque, the blown petrol six despatches the 0-62mph sprint in 5.8sec. That's just 0.3sec slower than the lighter 335i coupe. Top speed is electronically reined in to 155mph. The other launch engine is the 2.5-litre naturally aspirated six, yielding 218bhp and 200lb ft. The 0-62mph dash takes 7.6sec, fuel consumption is a claimed 35.8mpg on the combined cycle and v-max is 152mph. Both engines are mated to a standard six-speed manual, with a six-speed auto, with quicker shifts than before and paddleshift manual over-ride, optional.
Caterham Seven (2006): first official pictures
Caterham Seven: the lowdown
Caterham has kicked out the K-series, replacing it with a tuned 1.6-litre Ford engine for the next generation Seven sports car. The Sigma engine – used in the Fiesta and Focus – is available with two outputs: 125bhp in the Roadsport (pictured), or 140bhp in Superlight trim. A third engine with around 160bhp will follow in spring 2007. With K-series engine production moving to China following the acquisition of MG Rover's assets by Nanjing Automotive, Caterham was forced to find a new engine supplier. The move ends 15 years of K-series-powered Caterhams.
Roadsport is no slouch
The Sigma engine is bolted to an overhauled Seven chassis. Caterham claims torsional rigidity has increased by 12 percent, thanks to a precision laser-cut manufacturing process. The new engine is an upgraded version of the 99bhp 1.6-litre four, which has run riot in the Formula Ford racing series. Power Torque Engineering has tuned the engine for Caterham duty. The 125bhp Roadsport sprints to 60mph from standstill in just 5.9secs. The base Roadsport costs £15,995, although the 140bhp engine is also available in Roadsport trim. The extra grunt cuts the 0-60mph dash to 5.0secs. The £16,995 Roadsport 140 is expected to be the biggest seller, with most buyers happy to swallow the expense of the extra grand in return for the added performance.
Caterham has kicked out the K-series, replacing it with a tuned 1.6-litre Ford engine for the next generation Seven sports car. The Sigma engine – used in the Fiesta and Focus – is available with two outputs: 125bhp in the Roadsport (pictured), or 140bhp in Superlight trim. A third engine with around 160bhp will follow in spring 2007. With K-series engine production moving to China following the acquisition of MG Rover's assets by Nanjing Automotive, Caterham was forced to find a new engine supplier. The move ends 15 years of K-series-powered Caterhams.
Roadsport is no slouch
The Sigma engine is bolted to an overhauled Seven chassis. Caterham claims torsional rigidity has increased by 12 percent, thanks to a precision laser-cut manufacturing process. The new engine is an upgraded version of the 99bhp 1.6-litre four, which has run riot in the Formula Ford racing series. Power Torque Engineering has tuned the engine for Caterham duty. The 125bhp Roadsport sprints to 60mph from standstill in just 5.9secs. The base Roadsport costs £15,995, although the 140bhp engine is also available in Roadsport trim. The extra grunt cuts the 0-60mph dash to 5.0secs. The £16,995 Roadsport 140 is expected to be the biggest seller, with most buyers happy to swallow the expense of the extra grand in return for the added performance.
Ascari A10 (2007): first official pictures
Ascari A10: the lowdown
Ascari has unveiled a lightweight version of its KZ1 supercar, which it claims is a British rival for the Ferrari FXX. With 625bhp on tap and a kerb weight of around 1200kg, the new supercar is claimed to despatch the 0-60mph in 2.8sec – just 0.3sec slower than a Veyron. Just 50 A10s will be built in Ascari's Banbury plant, with only ten going to UK homes.
Power hiked by 125bhp
Like the KZ1, the A10 runs the 5.0-litre V8 engine that graced BMW's previous generation M5. However, peak power has climbed from the KZ1's 500bhp to 625 horses. Sending all this power to the wheels is a six-speed manual or an optional sequential gearbox. Naturally, the A10 gets uprated brakes and modified suspension to cope. The extra grunt catapults the A10 from zero to 60mph in 2.8 seconds, which is 0.9sec faster than the KZ1. Top speed is a claimed 220mph, 20mph faster than a KZ1.
Ascari has unveiled a lightweight version of its KZ1 supercar, which it claims is a British rival for the Ferrari FXX. With 625bhp on tap and a kerb weight of around 1200kg, the new supercar is claimed to despatch the 0-60mph in 2.8sec – just 0.3sec slower than a Veyron. Just 50 A10s will be built in Ascari's Banbury plant, with only ten going to UK homes.
Power hiked by 125bhp
Like the KZ1, the A10 runs the 5.0-litre V8 engine that graced BMW's previous generation M5. However, peak power has climbed from the KZ1's 500bhp to 625 horses. Sending all this power to the wheels is a six-speed manual or an optional sequential gearbox. Naturally, the A10 gets uprated brakes and modified suspension to cope. The extra grunt catapults the A10 from zero to 60mph in 2.8 seconds, which is 0.9sec faster than the KZ1. Top speed is a claimed 220mph, 20mph faster than a KZ1.
Peugeot 4007 (2006): first look
Peugeot 4007: the lowdown
This is the 4007, Peugeot's short-cut into the booming crossover-SUV market. Looks familiar? It's a badge-engineered version of Mitsubishi's new Outlander. And it won't be the only faux Frenchie: Citroen will also get a version. The 4007's glasshouse, outline and underpinnings are identical to the Mitsubishi's, although new headlamps and a gaping grille graft on some of the Peugeot family look. The Outlander's two-tone LED lamps are toned down. It's the same principle as the Saab 9-2X, GM's top-and-tailed version of the Subaru Impreza which bombed in America. Mitsubishi will build 30,000 units a year for PSA in its Japanese factory, split equally between Peugeot and Citroen. With the UK expected to take up to 8000 Outlanders alone, PSA is being cautious with its expectations. But Mitsubishi will be glad of the extra volume, helping to boost economies of scale.
Under the skin
Peugeot has made one big change: replacing the Outlander's 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel, bought in from from VW, with its 2.2-litre HDI. The common-rail unit kicks out 156bhp and 280lb ft. For extra grunt, the engine can run on up to 30 percent biodiesel. And a particulate filter traps soot and periodically incinerates it. Power is sent mostly to the front wheels, although torque can be distributed to the rear axle if the front rubber loses grip. The 4007 can also be locked in four-wheel drive mode. Transmission is via a six-speed manual gearbox. Peugeot has yet to open up the 4007. But it retains the Outlander's seven-seat layout, and French sources vow that the cabin will have a 'Peugeot feel' and plenty of storage. The 4007 goes on sale in the UK around September 2007, with prices slightly less than £20,000. No word yet whether the petrol engines will be offered from 2008.
This is the 4007, Peugeot's short-cut into the booming crossover-SUV market. Looks familiar? It's a badge-engineered version of Mitsubishi's new Outlander. And it won't be the only faux Frenchie: Citroen will also get a version. The 4007's glasshouse, outline and underpinnings are identical to the Mitsubishi's, although new headlamps and a gaping grille graft on some of the Peugeot family look. The Outlander's two-tone LED lamps are toned down. It's the same principle as the Saab 9-2X, GM's top-and-tailed version of the Subaru Impreza which bombed in America. Mitsubishi will build 30,000 units a year for PSA in its Japanese factory, split equally between Peugeot and Citroen. With the UK expected to take up to 8000 Outlanders alone, PSA is being cautious with its expectations. But Mitsubishi will be glad of the extra volume, helping to boost economies of scale.
Under the skin
Peugeot has made one big change: replacing the Outlander's 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel, bought in from from VW, with its 2.2-litre HDI. The common-rail unit kicks out 156bhp and 280lb ft. For extra grunt, the engine can run on up to 30 percent biodiesel. And a particulate filter traps soot and periodically incinerates it. Power is sent mostly to the front wheels, although torque can be distributed to the rear axle if the front rubber loses grip. The 4007 can also be locked in four-wheel drive mode. Transmission is via a six-speed manual gearbox. Peugeot has yet to open up the 4007. But it retains the Outlander's seven-seat layout, and French sources vow that the cabin will have a 'Peugeot feel' and plenty of storage. The 4007 goes on sale in the UK around September 2007, with prices slightly less than £20,000. No word yet whether the petrol engines will be offered from 2008.
Mercedes-Benz World
The lowdown
The name says it all - Mercedes-Benz World. Situated next to the historic Brooklands race circuit and museum in Weybridge, Surrey, this multi-million pound group of designer buildings is Mercedes’ shiny new experience centre. Sitting in 60acres of parklands, it’s the ultimate one-stop Mercedes shop, with everything from a conference centre to an off-roading circuit. It joins eight other similar centres across the world, from Stuttgart to Singapore to Durban, but it’s easily the biggest and the only facility to have its own test track. With nine million potential customers living within an hour’s drive of Brooklands, Mercedes expects 300,000 visitors a year. It’s open seven days a week and entry is free. To save you the trek, we jumped the queue and had a look at the highlights…
Testing, testing
One of the key attractions will be the centre’s bespoke test tracks and off-road facilities. The test tracks were designed by MIRA, the Motor Industry Research Centre, and there are just under two miles of dynamic handling courses, including a wet skidpan and a 10-acre off-road circuit. There are 32 instructors on hand, all skilled drivers and many with motor racing experience, and the facilities have been designed to handle a dozen cars games at any one time. It’s the ultimate test drive facility, with every model in the Mercedes range available to customers. And the handling circuits are not exclusive to those buying a car – there are a number of driving packages on sale, with prices starting at £25 for a ten-minute test session. Not cheap then…
The name says it all - Mercedes-Benz World. Situated next to the historic Brooklands race circuit and museum in Weybridge, Surrey, this multi-million pound group of designer buildings is Mercedes’ shiny new experience centre. Sitting in 60acres of parklands, it’s the ultimate one-stop Mercedes shop, with everything from a conference centre to an off-roading circuit. It joins eight other similar centres across the world, from Stuttgart to Singapore to Durban, but it’s easily the biggest and the only facility to have its own test track. With nine million potential customers living within an hour’s drive of Brooklands, Mercedes expects 300,000 visitors a year. It’s open seven days a week and entry is free. To save you the trek, we jumped the queue and had a look at the highlights…
Testing, testing
One of the key attractions will be the centre’s bespoke test tracks and off-road facilities. The test tracks were designed by MIRA, the Motor Industry Research Centre, and there are just under two miles of dynamic handling courses, including a wet skidpan and a 10-acre off-road circuit. There are 32 instructors on hand, all skilled drivers and many with motor racing experience, and the facilities have been designed to handle a dozen cars games at any one time. It’s the ultimate test drive facility, with every model in the Mercedes range available to customers. And the handling circuits are not exclusive to those buying a car – there are a number of driving packages on sale, with prices starting at £25 for a ten-minute test session. Not cheap then…
Thứ Năm, 1 tháng 3, 2012
BMW launches new 5-series (2009 teaser
It's begun - BMW has started the PR roll-out for the new 5-series. First up there's both a teaser video and a single image of the Five, before the new car is unveiled on 23 November 2009.
There's one solitary image, and the video is typically brief, but BMW claims it's enough to give us a glimpse of 'the sporting and elegant design of the new BMW 5-series, using the kinetic sculpture from the BMW Museum to create the silhouette'. Looks like lots of suspended silver balls to us...
Give me a quick overview of the new BMW 5-series please
The new Five will be the sixth generation of BMW's executive saloon, and according to the company the latest car remains 'the synonym for aesthetics and driving pleasure'. The chassis is made up of components from the 7-series and 5 GT, but it will abandon the current car's hybrid steel and aluminium construction, in favour of an all-steel platform.
UK sales of the saloon start in March 2010 with a 530d, 523i and 535i leading the charge. More engine variants, and a Touring bodystyle, will be revealed next summer.
Come back to CAR GAMES Online at 7pm (UK time) on 23 November 2009 when we'll have the first pictures of the new BMW 5-series.
There's one solitary image, and the video is typically brief, but BMW claims it's enough to give us a glimpse of 'the sporting and elegant design of the new BMW 5-series, using the kinetic sculpture from the BMW Museum to create the silhouette'. Looks like lots of suspended silver balls to us...
Give me a quick overview of the new BMW 5-series please
The new Five will be the sixth generation of BMW's executive saloon, and according to the company the latest car remains 'the synonym for aesthetics and driving pleasure'. The chassis is made up of components from the 7-series and 5 GT, but it will abandon the current car's hybrid steel and aluminium construction, in favour of an all-steel platform.
UK sales of the saloon start in March 2010 with a 530d, 523i and 535i leading the charge. More engine variants, and a Touring bodystyle, will be revealed next summer.
Come back to CAR GAMES Online at 7pm (UK time) on 23 November 2009 when we'll have the first pictures of the new BMW 5-series.
Citroen C-Zero (2010) first picture
Citroen has revealed the C-Zero, an electric city car based on Mitsubishi's i-MiEV, and a sibling to Peugeot's iOn.
So now we've got the Citroen C-Zero, who doesn't have a version of Mitsubishi's i-MiEV?
Well, Citroen and Peugeot are both now taken care of - Citroen's PSA partner Peugeot unveiled the iOn earlier this year - but the rebadged i-MiEV is an easy way for Citroen to add a zero-emissions vehicle to its range.
The C-Zero is powered by a 47kW (64bhp) motor that also produces 133lb ft and sends the drive to the rear wheels. Power for the motor comes from a 330-volt lithium-ion battery (with a 16kWh capacity) mounted in the middle of the C-Zero. Top speed is 80mph - the same as the claimed range - and 62mph is reached in 15 seconds.
And when the charge runs out you can rejuvenate the C-Zero through a conventional three-point plug (which takes around six hours to fully charge the car) or use a 'quick-charge' facility with a higher voltage to give you an 80% charge in 30 minutes.
The C-Zero will be launched in the last quarter of 2010, but prices have yet to be announced.
So now we've got the Citroen C-Zero, who doesn't have a version of Mitsubishi's i-MiEV?
Well, Citroen and Peugeot are both now taken care of - Citroen's PSA partner Peugeot unveiled the iOn earlier this year - but the rebadged i-MiEV is an easy way for Citroen to add a zero-emissions vehicle to its range.
The C-Zero is powered by a 47kW (64bhp) motor that also produces 133lb ft and sends the drive to the rear wheels. Power for the motor comes from a 330-volt lithium-ion battery (with a 16kWh capacity) mounted in the middle of the C-Zero. Top speed is 80mph - the same as the claimed range - and 62mph is reached in 15 seconds.
And when the charge runs out you can rejuvenate the C-Zero through a conventional three-point plug (which takes around six hours to fully charge the car) or use a 'quick-charge' facility with a higher voltage to give you an 80% charge in 30 minutes.
The C-Zero will be launched in the last quarter of 2010, but prices have yet to be announced.
CAR reader designs Audi R10 supercar
We’re rather keen on Audi’s R8, but one day Ingolstadt is going to have to replace its seminal supercar. And after seeing CAR GAMES reader LexOrABenz's design, we think we know what Audi's next halo car should look like.
LexOrABenz is actually Marouane Bembli, a 23-year old indsutrial design student from Sweden. 'I’ve designed what I believe will be Audi’s new supercar, the R10', says Bembli. 'It features a mid-mounted V10 engine and a dry weight of 1200kg. I hope you like it!'
We do, and reckon it would look rather good with a targa roof, but what do you think?
>> Browse the pictures and then let us know what you think of the Audi R10 by clicking 'Add your comment' below
LexOrABenz is actually Marouane Bembli, a 23-year old indsutrial design student from Sweden. 'I’ve designed what I believe will be Audi’s new supercar, the R10', says Bembli. 'It features a mid-mounted V10 engine and a dry weight of 1200kg. I hope you like it!'
We do, and reckon it would look rather good with a targa roof, but what do you think?
>> Browse the pictures and then let us know what you think of the Audi R10 by clicking 'Add your comment' below
Nissan updates GT-R for Europe
Now that the initial excitement over the GT-R has died down, Nissan has launched a round of improvements aimed at improving its reliability, comfort and yes, even its ability to plaster a smile across your face.
So what's new to the Nissan GT-R? Are they all minute but massively important changes?
Apparently so. Changes to spring and damper rates improve the pretty woeful ride comfort but also the handling, says Nissan, thanks to more accurate control of suspension movements.
At the rear, the stiffness of the suspension radius rod bushings has been increased, giving improved feel and responsiveness during cornering while the balance of the electronic brakeforce distribution bias has been moved slightly rearwards, giving greater braking stability in dry conditions.
Tweaks to the software controlling torque distribution reduce the diff wind up when moving at low speeds and make the dual-clutch gearbox more eager to kick down from fourth gear, but happier to rely on the engine’s torque in sixth. The new car is no faster or more powerful than the old but changes to the emissions system now ensure the GT-R is Euro 5 compliant and CO2 emissions drop 3g to 295g/km.
Anything else?
Two additional NACA cooling ducts have been added to the carbonfibre underfloor diffuser to provide additional cooling to the exhaust and gearbox while a new, larger diameter pipe connecting the oil cooler reduces gearbox temperatures.
Inside the focus has been on improving refinement by improving the insulation fitted to the rear seats, and adding a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system with improved screen resolution and a 9.3GB Music Box library that can store music from up to 300 cds simply by inserting them into the drive.
You’ll struggle to spot the 'new' R35 GT-R unless you get behind the wheel: the only visual tweaks are a double coat of lacquer on the front and rear bumpers and a gun metal metallic finish for the instrument surrounds. Prices remain unchanged, the entry-level -Premium Edition costing £58,100 and the Black Edition another £1300.
So what's new to the Nissan GT-R? Are they all minute but massively important changes?
Apparently so. Changes to spring and damper rates improve the pretty woeful ride comfort but also the handling, says Nissan, thanks to more accurate control of suspension movements.
At the rear, the stiffness of the suspension radius rod bushings has been increased, giving improved feel and responsiveness during cornering while the balance of the electronic brakeforce distribution bias has been moved slightly rearwards, giving greater braking stability in dry conditions.
Tweaks to the software controlling torque distribution reduce the diff wind up when moving at low speeds and make the dual-clutch gearbox more eager to kick down from fourth gear, but happier to rely on the engine’s torque in sixth. The new car is no faster or more powerful than the old but changes to the emissions system now ensure the GT-R is Euro 5 compliant and CO2 emissions drop 3g to 295g/km.
Anything else?
Two additional NACA cooling ducts have been added to the carbonfibre underfloor diffuser to provide additional cooling to the exhaust and gearbox while a new, larger diameter pipe connecting the oil cooler reduces gearbox temperatures.
Inside the focus has been on improving refinement by improving the insulation fitted to the rear seats, and adding a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system with improved screen resolution and a 9.3GB Music Box library that can store music from up to 300 cds simply by inserting them into the drive.
You’ll struggle to spot the 'new' R35 GT-R unless you get behind the wheel: the only visual tweaks are a double coat of lacquer on the front and rear bumpers and a gun metal metallic finish for the instrument surrounds. Prices remain unchanged, the entry-level -Premium Edition costing £58,100 and the Black Edition another £1300.
BMW Motorrad Concept 6 (2009) unveiled
Yes, we know this BMW is a pair of wheels short of CAR Online’s usual offerings, but we couldn’t resist giving some space to this stunning straight six-powered BMW sports bike concept.
Now I'm interested - this BMW Concept 6 has a straight-six engine?
Yes, you read that right - the BMW Concept 6 has a 1600cc straight six slung across the frame. Honda tried something similar for the CBX1000 in the 1970s but the idea never really caught on even if the true width increase over a contemporary four wasn’t as huge as your eyes would have you believe.
Modern manufacturing techniques have allowed BMW to place the cylinders much closer together with the result that the engine is 100mm narrower than previous six-pot efforts and appears far narrower than the company’s own Boxer twins. All the electrical ancillaries are positioned behind the crankshaft and above the transmission, and the centre of gravity is kept low by titling and dry sumping the straight six.
BMW claims power is on a par with its 1.3-litre fours, so around 160bhp, but offers 96lb ft of torque from just 2000rpm while still retaining an ability to rev to 9000rpm and offering even better fuel consumption and much improved NVH.
The engine will find its way into BMW’s K-series touring bikes in 2010 where it will battle the likes of the Honda Goldwing, but sadly the Concept 6 itself will remain just a concept.
Still, we can all admire the carbonfibre fuel tank, white-painted aluminium body panels, LED lights and glorious exhaust. There's also drive-by-wire controls, 17-inch forged wheels and a minimalist LED display.
Now I'm interested - this BMW Concept 6 has a straight-six engine?
Yes, you read that right - the BMW Concept 6 has a 1600cc straight six slung across the frame. Honda tried something similar for the CBX1000 in the 1970s but the idea never really caught on even if the true width increase over a contemporary four wasn’t as huge as your eyes would have you believe.
Modern manufacturing techniques have allowed BMW to place the cylinders much closer together with the result that the engine is 100mm narrower than previous six-pot efforts and appears far narrower than the company’s own Boxer twins. All the electrical ancillaries are positioned behind the crankshaft and above the transmission, and the centre of gravity is kept low by titling and dry sumping the straight six.
BMW claims power is on a par with its 1.3-litre fours, so around 160bhp, but offers 96lb ft of torque from just 2000rpm while still retaining an ability to rev to 9000rpm and offering even better fuel consumption and much improved NVH.
The engine will find its way into BMW’s K-series touring bikes in 2010 where it will battle the likes of the Honda Goldwing, but sadly the Concept 6 itself will remain just a concept.
Still, we can all admire the carbonfibre fuel tank, white-painted aluminium body panels, LED lights and glorious exhaust. There's also drive-by-wire controls, 17-inch forged wheels and a minimalist LED display.
Pininfarina Air Flow helmet unveiled
This is Pinifarina's Air Flow, a special helmet created by the famed Italian design house for luxury lid manufacturer Newmax, and the star attraction on its stand at the Milan International Motorcycle Exhibition.
Pininfarina? Remind me what they do again?
Pininfarina is the same company that has penned the Ferrari 458 Italia and Maserati Granturismo. But while Pininfarina itself remains an automotive design company, its Extra Pininfarina arm has branched out into other projects, recently designing Coca-Cola drinks machines and the interior of Juventus's new stadium.
As for the helmet, it should keep the most hot-headed Latins cool and sweat free, thanks to a style that Pininfarina says 'defies the wind'.
The exterior of the Air Flow is actually a waterproof fabric, and it follows the bumps and curves of the hard shell beneath to help keep the shape aerodynamic. The shell itself is pierced at the back and sides to create 'flow intakes' that allow air to circulate inside the helmet and moisture to escape.
Pininfarina also says it's identified the most suitable ergonomic points to make contact with the human skull, so the internal pads that hold the helmet in place shouldn't create hot points on the skin, but will hopefully remain comfortable after a few hours posing.
Pininfarina? Remind me what they do again?
Pininfarina is the same company that has penned the Ferrari 458 Italia and Maserati Granturismo. But while Pininfarina itself remains an automotive design company, its Extra Pininfarina arm has branched out into other projects, recently designing Coca-Cola drinks machines and the interior of Juventus's new stadium.
As for the helmet, it should keep the most hot-headed Latins cool and sweat free, thanks to a style that Pininfarina says 'defies the wind'.
The exterior of the Air Flow is actually a waterproof fabric, and it follows the bumps and curves of the hard shell beneath to help keep the shape aerodynamic. The shell itself is pierced at the back and sides to create 'flow intakes' that allow air to circulate inside the helmet and moisture to escape.
Pininfarina also says it's identified the most suitable ergonomic points to make contact with the human skull, so the internal pads that hold the helmet in place shouldn't create hot points on the skin, but will hopefully remain comfortable after a few hours posing.
Peugeot HYbrid3 Evolution concept (2009) revealed
Peugeot’s cars games division has lagged miles behind rivals when it comes to hybrids – its first doesn’t go on sale until 2011. But it’s all different on the bike side of the company, which could be among the first to introduce a hybrid scooter.
What hybrid bike is Peugeot planning?
The three-wheel Hybrid3 Evolution has a supercharged 300cc petrol engine that sends 41bhp to the single rear wheel, and a pair of electric motors delivering a total of 8bhp to the twin front wheels.
It’ll hit 62mph in 10sec, emits just 48g/km of CO2 and, just like a Prius, it can run in various modes employing either petrol or electric power, or even both together. It has a stop-start function and can travel 10km on electric power alone.
Officially it’s just a concept, but since rival Piaggio has already confirmed production of its own plug-in hybrid three-wheeler, it seems inconceivable that the suspiciously showroom ready-looking Peugeot won’t be available to buy before the end of 2010.
But unlike their 50cc cousins, big scooters, and particularly the incredibly stable three-wheelers (which are a bridge between the bike and car worlds) can cost £5k. With the extra cost of a hybrid powertrain, this one would have to be considerably pricier, taking it into scrappage-subsidised Hyundai i10 territory, although the ability to nip down bus lanes and avoid the London congestion charge certainly appeal.
What hybrid bike is Peugeot planning?
The three-wheel Hybrid3 Evolution has a supercharged 300cc petrol engine that sends 41bhp to the single rear wheel, and a pair of electric motors delivering a total of 8bhp to the twin front wheels.
It’ll hit 62mph in 10sec, emits just 48g/km of CO2 and, just like a Prius, it can run in various modes employing either petrol or electric power, or even both together. It has a stop-start function and can travel 10km on electric power alone.
Officially it’s just a concept, but since rival Piaggio has already confirmed production of its own plug-in hybrid three-wheeler, it seems inconceivable that the suspiciously showroom ready-looking Peugeot won’t be available to buy before the end of 2010.
But unlike their 50cc cousins, big scooters, and particularly the incredibly stable three-wheelers (which are a bridge between the bike and car worlds) can cost £5k. With the extra cost of a hybrid powertrain, this one would have to be considerably pricier, taking it into scrappage-subsidised Hyundai i10 territory, although the ability to nip down bus lanes and avoid the London congestion charge certainly appeal.
Bentley's posh leather child seat
Bentley has launched a new collection of accessories to compliment its cars, all of which apparently highlight the company’s 'design and craftsmanship skills'. From child seats to torches, the range is designed to make the life of your average Bentley owner just that little bit more comfortable.
Bentley is making child seats? That's a step down, surely?
Perhaps, but having spent £150,000 on 200mph of GT pleasure, you are unlikely to fit a Halfords booster seat. The hand-stitched child seat - for 'the company’s smallest enthusiasts' - is made to match mum or dad's car with the same leather and piping, and can feature the child's name embroidered on the back beneath the Bentley wings, if Sir or Madam wishes.
What else is on offer?
The collection also includes new front wings for the Bentley Continental GT and GTC. Styled by Bentley's chief exterior designer Paul Pires, the new wings are vented behind the front wheels and feature a black mesh finish. A chrome finish is also under development, as is the vented bodywork for the Flying Spur.
Beyond that there's self-levelling wheel badges for the Arnage, Azure, Brooklands and Continental so Bentley customers don't feel outdone by Roll-Royce owners, though they only remain level until 70mph. Personalised indoor car covers are also on offer, and you can have your own numberplate emblazoned on them. Finally, Bentley's apparently very popular rechargeable LED torch has been given a knurled finish and had the Bentely 'B' lasered into the lens.
The price? If you have to ask...
Bentley is making child seats? That's a step down, surely?
Perhaps, but having spent £150,000 on 200mph of GT pleasure, you are unlikely to fit a Halfords booster seat. The hand-stitched child seat - for 'the company’s smallest enthusiasts' - is made to match mum or dad's car with the same leather and piping, and can feature the child's name embroidered on the back beneath the Bentley wings, if Sir or Madam wishes.
What else is on offer?
The collection also includes new front wings for the Bentley Continental GT and GTC. Styled by Bentley's chief exterior designer Paul Pires, the new wings are vented behind the front wheels and feature a black mesh finish. A chrome finish is also under development, as is the vented bodywork for the Flying Spur.
Beyond that there's self-levelling wheel badges for the Arnage, Azure, Brooklands and Continental so Bentley customers don't feel outdone by Roll-Royce owners, though they only remain level until 70mph. Personalised indoor car covers are also on offer, and you can have your own numberplate emblazoned on them. Finally, Bentley's apparently very popular rechargeable LED torch has been given a knurled finish and had the Bentely 'B' lasered into the lens.
The price? If you have to ask...
Silverstone redevelops Stowe: new pictures
This is the new Stowe Complex at Silverstone, the first step in the racing circuit's new £7 million track development programme, and the main feature to attract corporate and product events to the track ahead of major planned events in 2010.
Will Silverstone's new Stowe Complex affect the 2010 Moto GP or possible return of the British grand prix?
No, the complex is a separate development within the full F1 circuit, and should be fully complete by March 2010, in time for the Moto GP in June 2010 and the still-possible British GP in July 2010. The development is designed to attract manufacturers and corporate events types to come and test at the Northamptonshire venue.
So it's just a money-spinning scheme by Silverstone? Or are they actually building something important?
The Stowe Complex is certainly a way for Silverstone to generate some important revenue and publicity. But it should add to the appeal of the historic race track with a raft of new facilities.
The focal point is a 1.15-mile track, configured one of six ways and designed to test modern tech such as ESP stability control. Nine new three-car pit garages will be built, with two given double height ceilings to accommodate the lights, audio equipment and rigging for presentations and vehicle unveilings.
Two irrigated steering pads – one for constant radius steering and another for split-surface braking – simulate conditions from wet tarmac to sheet ice, and there's also an off-road stage for rougher stuff. And providing the drinks and pies are two corporate hospitality buildings catering for up to 100 people.
Silverstone's new Stowe Complex is a clever bet – providing new revenues in a time of uncertainty for the track. It could plug an F1-sized gap in the finances come 2010.
Will Silverstone's new Stowe Complex affect the 2010 Moto GP or possible return of the British grand prix?
No, the complex is a separate development within the full F1 circuit, and should be fully complete by March 2010, in time for the Moto GP in June 2010 and the still-possible British GP in July 2010. The development is designed to attract manufacturers and corporate events types to come and test at the Northamptonshire venue.
So it's just a money-spinning scheme by Silverstone? Or are they actually building something important?
The Stowe Complex is certainly a way for Silverstone to generate some important revenue and publicity. But it should add to the appeal of the historic race track with a raft of new facilities.
The focal point is a 1.15-mile track, configured one of six ways and designed to test modern tech such as ESP stability control. Nine new three-car pit garages will be built, with two given double height ceilings to accommodate the lights, audio equipment and rigging for presentations and vehicle unveilings.
Two irrigated steering pads – one for constant radius steering and another for split-surface braking – simulate conditions from wet tarmac to sheet ice, and there's also an off-road stage for rougher stuff. And providing the drinks and pies are two corporate hospitality buildings catering for up to 100 people.
Silverstone's new Stowe Complex is a clever bet – providing new revenues in a time of uncertainty for the track. It could plug an F1-sized gap in the finances come 2010.
Ford Fiesta S2000 rally car (2010) first pictures
>> Updated story Ford will officially unveil its new S2000-spec Fiesta rally car on Wednesday – a car already widely scooped with photos and videos disseminated by Ford through the Fiesta S2000's official Facebook page. You can even watch an official 'spy' video of the car testing. Click here to watch the video.
Ford’s new Fiesta S2000 rally car, a vehicle that will form the basis of the company’s 2011 WRC challenger.
So this Ford Fiesta will replace the Ford WRC?
Yes. Earlier this year both Ford and Citroen confirmed their continuing participation in rallying, and Ford revealed that it would participate in the S2000 and WRC categories with the Fiesta. The S2000 category calls for naturally aspirated engines that produce around 270bhp, while the WRC regulations allow the addition of a turbocharger and aerodynamic add-ons.
The new car has been built in less than six months by M-Sport, the team that runs Ford's current WRC cars. M-Sport worked closely with Ford during the build process to ensure the Fiesta’s styling was incorporated into the aggressive looks of the new car games.
Today the S2000 Fiesta underwent an initial shakedown in Cumbria, before it begins an extensive schedule that will see it test in the UK and Europe. A second car is expected to be completed by the end of October, which will both speed up the development process, and allow potential customers to drive the new car. Homologation will then take place in January 2010.
'The important thing now is that we undertake a strong test and development campaign in order to provide our customers with the best possible S2000 package,' said M-Sport managing director Malcolm Wilson. 'I’m sure that this car will also provide a very strong base for Ford’s next generation WRC car.'
Ford’s new Fiesta S2000 rally car, a vehicle that will form the basis of the company’s 2011 WRC challenger.
So this Ford Fiesta will replace the Ford WRC?
Yes. Earlier this year both Ford and Citroen confirmed their continuing participation in rallying, and Ford revealed that it would participate in the S2000 and WRC categories with the Fiesta. The S2000 category calls for naturally aspirated engines that produce around 270bhp, while the WRC regulations allow the addition of a turbocharger and aerodynamic add-ons.
The new car has been built in less than six months by M-Sport, the team that runs Ford's current WRC cars. M-Sport worked closely with Ford during the build process to ensure the Fiesta’s styling was incorporated into the aggressive looks of the new car games.
Today the S2000 Fiesta underwent an initial shakedown in Cumbria, before it begins an extensive schedule that will see it test in the UK and Europe. A second car is expected to be completed by the end of October, which will both speed up the development process, and allow potential customers to drive the new car. Homologation will then take place in January 2010.
'The important thing now is that we undertake a strong test and development campaign in order to provide our customers with the best possible S2000 package,' said M-Sport managing director Malcolm Wilson. 'I’m sure that this car will also provide a very strong base for Ford’s next generation WRC car.'
Thứ Ba, 28 tháng 2, 2012
Peugeot HX1 concept car (2011) first news more pics
This is the Peugeot HX1, a concept car to explore the theme of French luxury. It’s a sleek people carrier with an exquisite cabin, featuring natural oak structures and a slatted roof that casts light and shade across indulgent white leather seats.
The HX1 raises a fascinating question: how did France – home to haute couture fashion and gourmet cuisine – permit the rational, formal Germans to define and monopolise the luxury car? It’s not that France doesn’t periodically try to do premium: the Citroën C6, Renault Avantime and Renault Vel Satis are recent and engaging attempts at Gallic luxury. Which all flopped.
Peugeot HX1: a very Gallic concept car
Peugeot’s Frankfurt show car is reminiscent of the Avantime in particular, that four-seat coupé with a galaxy’s worth of space. The HX1 is the length and width of Mercedes’ R-class MPV, but it stands only marginally higher than Peugeot’s own RCZ coupé. The HX1’s long, low interior volume is optimised for four seats, though a middle row of perches can slide out from behind the front seats to accomodate six people. A daft compromise: the HX1 is all about two rear passengers luxuriating in the same legroom as a Maybach 63 limousine.
Per Selvaag, Peugeot’s head of advanced design, is a thoughtful and opinionated commentator. A Norwegian national of Chinese descent living in France, Selvaag has a clear mission for his latest concept car. ‘I’m trying to tell the world something about Peugeot as a brand. It’s a condensed version of Peugeot’s direction, a signal of our thinking, a marker: design direction, architectures, customer reaction – there are so many things we can gauge.’
Pegueot: up or down?
Peugeot, like all mainstream car companies, is a determined social climber, desperate to boost its brand image and drive up its list prices, euro by euro. The HX1 is a small chip in this game. Selvaag wants the HX1 to capture the attention of Vogue readers as well as CAR readers, so there’s a tie-up with couture shoe designer Pierre Hardy, who commissions Italian artisans to forge his one-off designs. The ex-ballet dancer has created collections for Hermes and Dior, so he epitomises French luxury.
Hardy has designed a ‘concept shoe’ which dovetails with the HX1’s theme of duality and adaptability. The shoe is in two parts: a comfortable slipper perfect for heel and toeing, which slips into a towering edifice for teetering into a Sir Elton John gala night. Similarly the HX1 is adaptable: flaps between the spokes in the 21-inch wheels fold out to smooth air flow, while the rear spoiler can alter its position to reduce drag, increase downforce or act as an air brake.
This duality continues inside. The front seats have a different beige and grey leather colour scheme, and the environment is stripped back and driver-focused – compare that with a Porsche Panamera’s button-strewn definition of luxury. In the white-coloured rear, centre console buttons control lots of gadgets, and there’s a pampering coffee machine and minibar.
Peugeot HX1: very French luxury
‘What does French luxury smell like, feel like?’ asks Selvaag. ‘The French can have pizazz, flamboyance and energy. This project is to show French premium is different to any other premium.’
The use of materials is imaginative. Blocks of oak form part of the door structure, pierced by fibreoptic cables to ooze warm light, and Carrare marble adorns the rear compartment. And with the glass roof now commonplace, Selvaag’s team experimented with a slatted headliner, pouring light and shade into the cabin for a unique ambience.
HX1 is the fourth concept of Peugeot’s new design era, which kicked off with the beautiful SR1 roadster in January 2010. The HX1 features the floating grille, sculpted surfaces and boomerang rear lamps filtering through to Peugeot’s production cars.
‘Our form language will be consistent: you won’t see fish one year, fowl the next,’ says Selvaag. ‘The SR1 was our blueprint, which we are looking to expand. We want to show it applies to other architectures: HR1 or EX1 or SXC. These cars illustrate its flexibility, and ram home the viability of our current design language.’
Peugeot HX1: another hybrid
Peugeot-Citroën’s Hybrid4 drivetrain – exclusive to the French for now – powers the HX1. Up front, a 204bhp 2.2-litre diesel engine turns the front wheels, while a 70kW hang on electric motor spins the back axle. Total output of this four-wheel drive system is 299bhp. The new development is plug-in capability: the lithium-ion battery pack can be charged from the mains for an 18.6-mile electric range. Combined fuel consumption is calculated at 88.2mpg, with 83g/km of CO2.
With its novel powertrain, a sleek but muscular form and a beautiful cabin, the HX1 is a luxurious one-off. Could it become a production car to give France a successful premium challenger? The C6 and 607 were too unremarkable to crack the German saloon hegemony; a wonderful idea like the Avantime was hamstrung by terrible quality. But their failure doesn’t mean all French premium cars must fail. The Espace, S-Max, Scenic and Touareg have all proven that fresh concepts or high quality, desirable products in unretrenched market segments can succeed.
Imagine reclining in the HX1’s rear seats, sunlight dancing across your face, swept along on a supple French suspension. That experience would eclipse any feeling that the Mercedes R-class and BMW’s 5-series GT can offer. Neither of those Germans are world-beaters. If anyone is going to crack the luxury people carrier niche, it should be Renault, Citroën or Peugeot. Because as Per Selvaag says: ‘Nobody can beat the French at being French.’
The HX1 raises a fascinating question: how did France – home to haute couture fashion and gourmet cuisine – permit the rational, formal Germans to define and monopolise the luxury car? It’s not that France doesn’t periodically try to do premium: the Citroën C6, Renault Avantime and Renault Vel Satis are recent and engaging attempts at Gallic luxury. Which all flopped.
Peugeot HX1: a very Gallic concept car
Peugeot’s Frankfurt show car is reminiscent of the Avantime in particular, that four-seat coupé with a galaxy’s worth of space. The HX1 is the length and width of Mercedes’ R-class MPV, but it stands only marginally higher than Peugeot’s own RCZ coupé. The HX1’s long, low interior volume is optimised for four seats, though a middle row of perches can slide out from behind the front seats to accomodate six people. A daft compromise: the HX1 is all about two rear passengers luxuriating in the same legroom as a Maybach 63 limousine.
Per Selvaag, Peugeot’s head of advanced design, is a thoughtful and opinionated commentator. A Norwegian national of Chinese descent living in France, Selvaag has a clear mission for his latest concept car. ‘I’m trying to tell the world something about Peugeot as a brand. It’s a condensed version of Peugeot’s direction, a signal of our thinking, a marker: design direction, architectures, customer reaction – there are so many things we can gauge.’
Pegueot: up or down?
Peugeot, like all mainstream car companies, is a determined social climber, desperate to boost its brand image and drive up its list prices, euro by euro. The HX1 is a small chip in this game. Selvaag wants the HX1 to capture the attention of Vogue readers as well as CAR readers, so there’s a tie-up with couture shoe designer Pierre Hardy, who commissions Italian artisans to forge his one-off designs. The ex-ballet dancer has created collections for Hermes and Dior, so he epitomises French luxury.
Hardy has designed a ‘concept shoe’ which dovetails with the HX1’s theme of duality and adaptability. The shoe is in two parts: a comfortable slipper perfect for heel and toeing, which slips into a towering edifice for teetering into a Sir Elton John gala night. Similarly the HX1 is adaptable: flaps between the spokes in the 21-inch wheels fold out to smooth air flow, while the rear spoiler can alter its position to reduce drag, increase downforce or act as an air brake.
This duality continues inside. The front seats have a different beige and grey leather colour scheme, and the environment is stripped back and driver-focused – compare that with a Porsche Panamera’s button-strewn definition of luxury. In the white-coloured rear, centre console buttons control lots of gadgets, and there’s a pampering coffee machine and minibar.
Peugeot HX1: very French luxury
‘What does French luxury smell like, feel like?’ asks Selvaag. ‘The French can have pizazz, flamboyance and energy. This project is to show French premium is different to any other premium.’
The use of materials is imaginative. Blocks of oak form part of the door structure, pierced by fibreoptic cables to ooze warm light, and Carrare marble adorns the rear compartment. And with the glass roof now commonplace, Selvaag’s team experimented with a slatted headliner, pouring light and shade into the cabin for a unique ambience.
HX1 is the fourth concept of Peugeot’s new design era, which kicked off with the beautiful SR1 roadster in January 2010. The HX1 features the floating grille, sculpted surfaces and boomerang rear lamps filtering through to Peugeot’s production cars.
‘Our form language will be consistent: you won’t see fish one year, fowl the next,’ says Selvaag. ‘The SR1 was our blueprint, which we are looking to expand. We want to show it applies to other architectures: HR1 or EX1 or SXC. These cars illustrate its flexibility, and ram home the viability of our current design language.’
Peugeot HX1: another hybrid
Peugeot-Citroën’s Hybrid4 drivetrain – exclusive to the French for now – powers the HX1. Up front, a 204bhp 2.2-litre diesel engine turns the front wheels, while a 70kW hang on electric motor spins the back axle. Total output of this four-wheel drive system is 299bhp. The new development is plug-in capability: the lithium-ion battery pack can be charged from the mains for an 18.6-mile electric range. Combined fuel consumption is calculated at 88.2mpg, with 83g/km of CO2.
With its novel powertrain, a sleek but muscular form and a beautiful cabin, the HX1 is a luxurious one-off. Could it become a production car to give France a successful premium challenger? The C6 and 607 were too unremarkable to crack the German saloon hegemony; a wonderful idea like the Avantime was hamstrung by terrible quality. But their failure doesn’t mean all French premium cars must fail. The Espace, S-Max, Scenic and Touareg have all proven that fresh concepts or high quality, desirable products in unretrenched market segments can succeed.
Imagine reclining in the HX1’s rear seats, sunlight dancing across your face, swept along on a supple French suspension. That experience would eclipse any feeling that the Mercedes R-class and BMW’s 5-series GT can offer. Neither of those Germans are world-beaters. If anyone is going to crack the luxury people carrier niche, it should be Renault, Citroën or Peugeot. Because as Per Selvaag says: ‘Nobody can beat the French at being French.’
Alfa Romeo 4C (2012) more official pictures
Yes, yes - it's only a new paint job on the Alfa Romeo 4C concept car. But the 4C remains one of our favourite show cars in recent years, so we're only too happy to show off its new Fluid Metal colour scheme.
The 4C will be shown again at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show on 13 September. Alfa calls the Fluid Metal paint 'like a sheet of forged metal' and it certainly suits the new compact Cayman rival from Turin.
Alfa Romeo 4C: a refresher course
None of the tech spec of the 4C has changed. It's still very compact, at just 4 metres long and a stubby 2.4m wheelbase (it's only a two-seater), making it closer to a Lotus Elise than an Evora.
Alfa promises the production 4C - which we'll see on sale in late 2012 - will stick with the clever construction seen on this concept car and derived from big brother the 8C. That means carbonfibre and aluminium to keep weight as low as 850kg, the carbon tub coming from composite specialists Dallara.
The 1750 petrol turbo will provide the fireworks, paired to Alfa's TCT twin-clutch gearbox. Alfa Romeo promises 'over 200bhp' and says the mid-mounted four-cylinder engine accounts for a 40:60 front:rear weight distribution.
So the Alfa 4C will be damn fast?
You bet. It's light and powerful enough for a top end over 155mph and 0-62mph in less than 5.0sec, predicts Alfa. Sources at the company have told CAR to expect nearer 165mph/4.5sec.
That lavish material mix will swell the showroom price to around £40,000, but we still predict long queues once production starts in late 2012.
Turin forecasts 1500 sales of the 4C each year, around a fifth destined for the United States - marking the return to the US for a sorely missed brand.
The 4C will be shown again at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show on 13 September. Alfa calls the Fluid Metal paint 'like a sheet of forged metal' and it certainly suits the new compact Cayman rival from Turin.
Alfa Romeo 4C: a refresher course
None of the tech spec of the 4C has changed. It's still very compact, at just 4 metres long and a stubby 2.4m wheelbase (it's only a two-seater), making it closer to a Lotus Elise than an Evora.
Alfa promises the production 4C - which we'll see on sale in late 2012 - will stick with the clever construction seen on this concept car and derived from big brother the 8C. That means carbonfibre and aluminium to keep weight as low as 850kg, the carbon tub coming from composite specialists Dallara.
The 1750 petrol turbo will provide the fireworks, paired to Alfa's TCT twin-clutch gearbox. Alfa Romeo promises 'over 200bhp' and says the mid-mounted four-cylinder engine accounts for a 40:60 front:rear weight distribution.
So the Alfa 4C will be damn fast?
You bet. It's light and powerful enough for a top end over 155mph and 0-62mph in less than 5.0sec, predicts Alfa. Sources at the company have told CAR to expect nearer 165mph/4.5sec.
That lavish material mix will swell the showroom price to around £40,000, but we still predict long queues once production starts in late 2012.
Turin forecasts 1500 sales of the 4C each year, around a fifth destined for the United States - marking the return to the US for a sorely missed brand.
Fiat Panda (2012) first official pictures
This is Fiat’s new 2012 Panda – incredibly, only the third generation of Panda in the range’s 31-year history. Not that buyers seem to mind the glacial rate of progress: Fiat has sold 6.5m Pandas over the past three decades.
The new 2012 Panda squeezes more space into the compact footprint; it’s 3650mm long, 1640mm wide and 1550mm high – enough, says Fiat, for five passengers and the biggest boot in segment.
New Fiat Panda (2012): the new wardrobe
You won't mistake this for anything other than a Panda: that distinctive third side window cuts a dash and those swollen wheelarches are a Panda trademark.
The interior of the new Panda is more versatile than ever, with a sliding rear seat and a front backrest that flops into a table for picnics on the go. There are cubby holes galore, clever thin seat backs to boost knee room and the ability to use the entire length of the cabin to carry lanky items.
The engineering of the new Panda
Underpinning the 2012 Panda is an evolution of Fiat's small car architecture. Up front are MacPherson struts, while the rear axle deploys the familiar torsion beam suspension.
The engines are familiar fare from the Fiat empire: the TwinAir two-cylinder petrol engine will be available in 64bhp 0.9 Aspirated TwinAir form and 84bhp 0.9 TwinAir Turbo guise.
Other four-cylinder choices include the 68bhp 1.2 FIRE petrol and 74bhp 1.3 Multijet diesel. Stop-start and gearchange advisory messages will be available too, as is Fiat's Dualogic robotised manual transmission.
Fiat Panda: gadgets and gizmos
Safety is provided by four airbags, anti-lock, pre-tensioner seatbelts and daytime running lamps, while an auto-brake function that will pull an emergency stop at up to 20mph around town is coming. A giant glass sunroof dubbed Skydome is optional, while all Pandas come with switchable electric power steering that maintains the finger-light City mode if you like to spin the wheel on your little finger.
Production of the new Fiat Panda kicks off in winter 2011. It'll be built at the upgraded Giambattista Vico factory in Naples. Fiat makes great play of the fact that the plant now uses 603 state-of-the-art robots to improve the build quality of the new Panda.
The new 2012 Panda squeezes more space into the compact footprint; it’s 3650mm long, 1640mm wide and 1550mm high – enough, says Fiat, for five passengers and the biggest boot in segment.
New Fiat Panda (2012): the new wardrobe
You won't mistake this for anything other than a Panda: that distinctive third side window cuts a dash and those swollen wheelarches are a Panda trademark.
The interior of the new Panda is more versatile than ever, with a sliding rear seat and a front backrest that flops into a table for picnics on the go. There are cubby holes galore, clever thin seat backs to boost knee room and the ability to use the entire length of the cabin to carry lanky items.
The engineering of the new Panda
Underpinning the 2012 Panda is an evolution of Fiat's small car architecture. Up front are MacPherson struts, while the rear axle deploys the familiar torsion beam suspension.
The engines are familiar fare from the Fiat empire: the TwinAir two-cylinder petrol engine will be available in 64bhp 0.9 Aspirated TwinAir form and 84bhp 0.9 TwinAir Turbo guise.
Other four-cylinder choices include the 68bhp 1.2 FIRE petrol and 74bhp 1.3 Multijet diesel. Stop-start and gearchange advisory messages will be available too, as is Fiat's Dualogic robotised manual transmission.
Fiat Panda: gadgets and gizmos
Safety is provided by four airbags, anti-lock, pre-tensioner seatbelts and daytime running lamps, while an auto-brake function that will pull an emergency stop at up to 20mph around town is coming. A giant glass sunroof dubbed Skydome is optional, while all Pandas come with switchable electric power steering that maintains the finger-light City mode if you like to spin the wheel on your little finger.
Production of the new Fiat Panda kicks off in winter 2011. It'll be built at the upgraded Giambattista Vico factory in Naples. Fiat makes great play of the fact that the plant now uses 603 state-of-the-art robots to improve the build quality of the new Panda.
Audi S6, S7 and S8 (2011) first official pictures
To offset its two tiny Urban concept cars and prove it’s still a sporty, performance-inspired brand, Audi will unveil not one but three hot S models at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show in September.
The Audi S6, S7 and S8 are all powered by the company’s new 4.0-litre V8, with the most powerful iteration offering up 512bhp.
Are the Audi S6, S7 and S8 all available with 512bhp?
Alas not – only the flagship S8 limo boasts the full-fat 512bhp. The engine in question is Audi’s new 4.0-litre V8, and it’ll also find its way into the Bentley Continental range in the near future.
Twin turbos and direct-injection fuel technology help the new unit crank out 479lb ft in S8 guise (all the way from 1700 to 5500rpm), and combined with four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic, dispatch 0-62mph in just 4.2 seconds, hit its 155mph limiter with ease, and achieve 27.7mpg on the combined EU fuel cycle.
New ‘cylinder on demand’ tech – which can deactivate four of the eight cylinders – also contributes towards the improved fuel figures (the old V10-engined S8 averaged 21.4mpg despite boasting 69bhp less), as does stop/start tech. A new Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC) broadcasts 'an antiphase sound through the speakers of the sound system' to cancel out intrusive sound elements, and there are also electronically controlled engine bearings that use 'targeted counterpulses' to cut out low-frequency vibrations.
And for those that are fed up with hearing about fuel economy, a self-locking centre differential and Audi’s rear Sport diff are standard. Plus the air suspension has been tweaked by Quattro GmbH too, 20in wheels (shod with 265/40 tyres) feature all round, while braking is by 400mm discs up front and 365mm discs at the rear.
Carbon-ceramics are an option, and Audi claims each one saves over 5kg. A butcher bodykit and quad exhausts complete the exterior makeover, while sports seats, a sports steering wheel, and many other ‘sports’ items add a, err, sporting touch to the interior.
And the S6 saloon and S7 Sportback?
Don’t forget the A6 Avant either; all three use a 414bhp version of the new twin-turbo V8. Torque is down to a paltry 406lb ft (from 1400 to 5300rpm), with the S6 cracking 62mph in 4.8 seconds, and the S6 Avant and S7 completing the benchmark sprint a tenth slower. Once again fuel consumption is massively improved over the outgoing 5.2-litre V10, but in isolation 29.1mpg (S6 and S7) and 28.8mpg (S6 Avant) don’t sound too impressive.
Stop/start again features, as does Audi’s ‘cylinder on demand’ technology and ANC, and these 'lesser' models mate Quattro drivetrains to seven-speed dual-clutch gearboxes.
Quad pipes (a trademark of Audi's S models; RS cars have twin oval exhausts) and more aggressive bumpers toughen up the outside, there are the usual go-faster updates inside, and while 10mm lower air suspension is standard, the rear Sport diff is optional.
The Audi S6, S7 and S8 are all powered by the company’s new 4.0-litre V8, with the most powerful iteration offering up 512bhp.
Are the Audi S6, S7 and S8 all available with 512bhp?
Alas not – only the flagship S8 limo boasts the full-fat 512bhp. The engine in question is Audi’s new 4.0-litre V8, and it’ll also find its way into the Bentley Continental range in the near future.
Twin turbos and direct-injection fuel technology help the new unit crank out 479lb ft in S8 guise (all the way from 1700 to 5500rpm), and combined with four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic, dispatch 0-62mph in just 4.2 seconds, hit its 155mph limiter with ease, and achieve 27.7mpg on the combined EU fuel cycle.
New ‘cylinder on demand’ tech – which can deactivate four of the eight cylinders – also contributes towards the improved fuel figures (the old V10-engined S8 averaged 21.4mpg despite boasting 69bhp less), as does stop/start tech. A new Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC) broadcasts 'an antiphase sound through the speakers of the sound system' to cancel out intrusive sound elements, and there are also electronically controlled engine bearings that use 'targeted counterpulses' to cut out low-frequency vibrations.
And for those that are fed up with hearing about fuel economy, a self-locking centre differential and Audi’s rear Sport diff are standard. Plus the air suspension has been tweaked by Quattro GmbH too, 20in wheels (shod with 265/40 tyres) feature all round, while braking is by 400mm discs up front and 365mm discs at the rear.
Carbon-ceramics are an option, and Audi claims each one saves over 5kg. A butcher bodykit and quad exhausts complete the exterior makeover, while sports seats, a sports steering wheel, and many other ‘sports’ items add a, err, sporting touch to the interior.
And the S6 saloon and S7 Sportback?
Don’t forget the A6 Avant either; all three use a 414bhp version of the new twin-turbo V8. Torque is down to a paltry 406lb ft (from 1400 to 5300rpm), with the S6 cracking 62mph in 4.8 seconds, and the S6 Avant and S7 completing the benchmark sprint a tenth slower. Once again fuel consumption is massively improved over the outgoing 5.2-litre V10, but in isolation 29.1mpg (S6 and S7) and 28.8mpg (S6 Avant) don’t sound too impressive.
Stop/start again features, as does Audi’s ‘cylinder on demand’ technology and ANC, and these 'lesser' models mate Quattro drivetrains to seven-speed dual-clutch gearboxes.
Quad pipes (a trademark of Audi's S models; RS cars have twin oval exhausts) and more aggressive bumpers toughen up the outside, there are the usual go-faster updates inside, and while 10mm lower air suspension is standard, the rear Sport diff is optional.
Ford Evos concept car (2011) news and pictures
Ford launched its new Evos concept as no less than its new global design direction at a pre-Frankfurt show event in Berlin yesterday.
Pay attention to the new Evos - it sets a blueprint for life after the Kinetic design language that has shaped Fords for the past few years.
All its design big guns were in attendance to reinforce the Evos’s worldwide significance from overall design chief J Mays to his two regional executive design directors, Martin Smith and Moray Callum. Mays declared: 'The Evos gives a clear message about where Ford design is heading – shaping vehicles that are fun to drive, have a strong premium visual appeal and are stunningly beautiful.'
So how has Ford’s face changed with the new Evos concept car?
The big, inverted trapezoidal front grille already seen on the Fiesta and Focus has moved higher up the car and replaced the extra moustache-like slim grille above. The Blue Oval is smaller, less dome-like and now tucked on the bonnet. Much slimmer and more angular front lights complete the look and, Mays boldly said, will make the cut on future production cars with scant change.
The side of the Evos looks pretty special too...
The fastback, four-door proportions of the Ford Evos feature two straight and taut side feature lines and a pumped-up rear wheelarch akin to the best-looking coupes but Mays reassured that these details along with the raked-back window graphic will be scalable up or down across Ford’s whole range – from sedans to crossovers.
Isn’t there more than a hint of Aston Martin about the design cues on the Evos though?
Head of the exterior team Stefan Lamm begs to differ.
He told CAR: 'It’s a compliment to be compared to such premium brands but the inverted trapezoidal grille is definitely part of Ford’s DNA.'
The quadruple gull-wing doors look great too but won’t make production. Remind me of the point of the Evos again?
Martin Smith told CAR GAMES that the Evos is 'a deliberately ambiguous format about the length of a Focus Estate with the track of a Mondeo,' and purely designed to show a new design direction.
A more pre-production concept set to debut at Detroit in January 2012 and heralding the next Mondeo/Fusion will reveal more.
Pay attention to the new Evos - it sets a blueprint for life after the Kinetic design language that has shaped Fords for the past few years.
All its design big guns were in attendance to reinforce the Evos’s worldwide significance from overall design chief J Mays to his two regional executive design directors, Martin Smith and Moray Callum. Mays declared: 'The Evos gives a clear message about where Ford design is heading – shaping vehicles that are fun to drive, have a strong premium visual appeal and are stunningly beautiful.'
So how has Ford’s face changed with the new Evos concept car?
The big, inverted trapezoidal front grille already seen on the Fiesta and Focus has moved higher up the car and replaced the extra moustache-like slim grille above. The Blue Oval is smaller, less dome-like and now tucked on the bonnet. Much slimmer and more angular front lights complete the look and, Mays boldly said, will make the cut on future production cars with scant change.
The side of the Evos looks pretty special too...
The fastback, four-door proportions of the Ford Evos feature two straight and taut side feature lines and a pumped-up rear wheelarch akin to the best-looking coupes but Mays reassured that these details along with the raked-back window graphic will be scalable up or down across Ford’s whole range – from sedans to crossovers.
Isn’t there more than a hint of Aston Martin about the design cues on the Evos though?
Head of the exterior team Stefan Lamm begs to differ.
He told CAR: 'It’s a compliment to be compared to such premium brands but the inverted trapezoidal grille is definitely part of Ford’s DNA.'
The quadruple gull-wing doors look great too but won’t make production. Remind me of the point of the Evos again?
Martin Smith told CAR GAMES that the Evos is 'a deliberately ambiguous format about the length of a Focus Estate with the track of a Mondeo,' and purely designed to show a new design direction.
A more pre-production concept set to debut at Detroit in January 2012 and heralding the next Mondeo/Fusion will reveal more.
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