When does a Rolls-Royce Ghost become a Phantom rival? When you add 170mm to the wheelbase and launch the Ghost Extended Wheelbase.
At 5569mm long, the LWB Ghost is still comfortably shorter than the 5834mm regular Rolls Phantom (the stretched Phantom soars beyond six metres!).
The Ghost LWB was launched today at the 2011 Shanghai auto show. Rolls will only build the long-wheelbase Ghost to order and will start production later in 2011.
Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Wheelbase: how much more room?
Goodwood claims that rear legroom is more than doubled compared to the regular 'SWB' Ghost, itself hardly a cramped place to sit.
Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös said: 'Ghost Extended Wheelbase delivers all the poise and dynamism enjoyed by discerning Ghost owners, with the indulgent experience of an extended wheelbase car games. It is the very best of both worlds. This is the first time we have undertaken a world launch of a Rolls-Royce car in China, underscoring the strategic significance of this market and the Asia Pacific region.'
Powering the Rolls-Royce Ghost LWB
It's business as usual under the bonnet of the stretched Ghost. There's the regular 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V12 which produces 555bhp and 575lb ft at just 1500rpm - enough for 0-62mph in just 5.0sec.
Rolls says customers in China bought more Centenary Collection special edition cars than any other market in the world. Its dealers in Beijing and Shanghai topped global showroom sales, and it's busy expanding its Chinese dealer network to 11. It's a reflection of a booming economy when the locals can afford a £482,000 Ghost Extended Wheelbase - local taxes hugely inflate the price of luxury imported vehicles.
Rolls-Royce appears to be prospering in 2011: in the first quarter, sales have jumped 160% compared with 2010. The biggest market remains America, followed by China, the UK, the UAE and Japan.
Thứ Tư, 29 tháng 2, 2012
Subaru XV Concept (2011) first official pictures
This is the Subaru XV crossover concept, unveiled today at the 2011 Shanghai motor show.
The Subaru XV is definitely not an SUV, is it?
No, the XV is Subaru's idea of an Impreza-based compact crossover hatchback. In concept it's a direct descendant of the 2010 Subaru XV concept, which appeared at 2010's Geneva motor show. It also reflects Subaru's new 'Protren' design language.
Protein? Is that why the Subaru XV looks like a pumped-up new Impreza hatch?
No, that's 'Protren'. Protren may be more memorable than the car - and had us in stictches when we heard about it.
Subaru Japan describe its new addition to the design lexicon as coming from a cross between 'professional tool' and 'trendy design'. The possibilities are endless...
Putting English mash-ups aside, tell us more about the Subaru XV concept.
Up front, we have the latest iteration of Subaru's hexagonal grille, flanked by 'hawk-eye' headlights in what is emerging as a consistent family style. Hexagonal and angular forms appear at the rear as well in the licence plate surround and taillight clusters.
There's a panoramic glass roof, so be careful what you load on the roof rails. Crossover trappings such as a front skid-plate, and black sill extensions round out the transformation of what looks like the 2011 Impreza 5dr hatchback. On stilts. That colour is 'Electro Yellowgreen', and gives the Subaru XV some added visual punch.
Inside the Subaru XV
The XV has a full interior, with seats trimmed in white leather with that yellowgreen colour migrating inside on contrast piping and mesh highlights. There's a touch-screen display in the centre console for infotainment and navigation.
Subaru's EyeSight collision warning system is also fitted to the XV - twin forward-facing cameras scan for obstacles and alert the driver via a display in the instrument panel.
What's under the Subaru XV's bonnet?
The Subaru XV is powered by a 2.0-litre flat-four engine, with CVT transmission and Subaru's signature all-wheel-drive transmission. No alternative fuel powertrain lurk within the XV - the Subaru's green quotient is supplied by that paintwork.
The Subaru XV is definitely not an SUV, is it?
No, the XV is Subaru's idea of an Impreza-based compact crossover hatchback. In concept it's a direct descendant of the 2010 Subaru XV concept, which appeared at 2010's Geneva motor show. It also reflects Subaru's new 'Protren' design language.
Protein? Is that why the Subaru XV looks like a pumped-up new Impreza hatch?
No, that's 'Protren'. Protren may be more memorable than the car - and had us in stictches when we heard about it.
Subaru Japan describe its new addition to the design lexicon as coming from a cross between 'professional tool' and 'trendy design'. The possibilities are endless...
Putting English mash-ups aside, tell us more about the Subaru XV concept.
Up front, we have the latest iteration of Subaru's hexagonal grille, flanked by 'hawk-eye' headlights in what is emerging as a consistent family style. Hexagonal and angular forms appear at the rear as well in the licence plate surround and taillight clusters.
There's a panoramic glass roof, so be careful what you load on the roof rails. Crossover trappings such as a front skid-plate, and black sill extensions round out the transformation of what looks like the 2011 Impreza 5dr hatchback. On stilts. That colour is 'Electro Yellowgreen', and gives the Subaru XV some added visual punch.
Inside the Subaru XV
The XV has a full interior, with seats trimmed in white leather with that yellowgreen colour migrating inside on contrast piping and mesh highlights. There's a touch-screen display in the centre console for infotainment and navigation.
Subaru's EyeSight collision warning system is also fitted to the XV - twin forward-facing cameras scan for obstacles and alert the driver via a display in the instrument panel.
What's under the Subaru XV's bonnet?
The Subaru XV is powered by a 2.0-litre flat-four engine, with CVT transmission and Subaru's signature all-wheel-drive transmission. No alternative fuel powertrain lurk within the XV - the Subaru's green quotient is supplied by that paintwork.
Audi A3 E-tron concept (2011) first official pictures
This is the Audi A3 E-tron concept, just unveiled alongside the new Q3 SUV at the 2011 Shanghai motor show. It’s Audi’s second A3 concept car in the space of two months – the first was a 402bhp super saloon, but this is a little more eco-conscious, with a plug-in hybrid powertrain – but both preview how the next A3 will look.
Does this new Audi A3 E-tron concept still use the first concept's turbocharged 2.5-litre five-pot engine?
Afraid not. Petrol power now comes from a turbocharged and direct injection 1.4-litre four cylinder engine – it produces 208bhp, and an electric motor adds 20kW for a 234bhp total. Working together the pair will push the A3 E-tron to 62mph in 6.8 seconds and on to a 143mph to speed.
There’s a set of lithium-ion batteries located behind the rear seats, and with a 12kWh capacity they give the A3 E-tron an EV range of up to 34 miles. The lithium-ion batteries are charged when the car is in motion, or the A3 E-tron can be plugged in to power up. Sounds impressive, but Audi has neglected to release any claimed fuel consumption or CO2 figures so we don’t know just how clean or green the A3 E-tron is.
As part of the E-tron tweaks, the A3 concept gains extra louvers in its chromed grille, a new front bumper and different exhausts pipes. It features the same carbonfibre-reinforced plastic grille frame, air intake, door mirrors and rear diffuser as the first A3 concept, plus its aluminium doors, bonnet and boot. But the addition of the plug-in hybrid componentry adds a lot of extra weight – the E-tron concept tips the scales at 180kg more than the 402bhp original, at 1720kg.
What’s beneath the skin of the Audi A3 E-tron concept?
Beneath the bodywork is a chassis derived from the current RS3 Sportback. That means four-wheel drive and a seven-speed double-clutch gearbox, but it gains inch bigger alloys (now 20s) and Audi’s Drive Select system. The latter has five modes (Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Individual and Efficiency) which tweak the settings of the engine, power steering and seven-speed S-tronic transmission.
And inside it’s another glimpse at the next-generation A3, with four circular air vents, three air-con controllers, a pop-up sat-nav, and the MMI rotary dial that now incorporates Audi’s trick touch pad. The rev counter is replaced by a ‘power metre’ similar to that available in the Q5 Hybrid.
The real A3 won't go on sale until 2012, but in the meantime you can see Audi's official sketches of its next A3 hatchback, Sportback and saloon here.
Does this new Audi A3 E-tron concept still use the first concept's turbocharged 2.5-litre five-pot engine?
Afraid not. Petrol power now comes from a turbocharged and direct injection 1.4-litre four cylinder engine – it produces 208bhp, and an electric motor adds 20kW for a 234bhp total. Working together the pair will push the A3 E-tron to 62mph in 6.8 seconds and on to a 143mph to speed.
There’s a set of lithium-ion batteries located behind the rear seats, and with a 12kWh capacity they give the A3 E-tron an EV range of up to 34 miles. The lithium-ion batteries are charged when the car is in motion, or the A3 E-tron can be plugged in to power up. Sounds impressive, but Audi has neglected to release any claimed fuel consumption or CO2 figures so we don’t know just how clean or green the A3 E-tron is.
As part of the E-tron tweaks, the A3 concept gains extra louvers in its chromed grille, a new front bumper and different exhausts pipes. It features the same carbonfibre-reinforced plastic grille frame, air intake, door mirrors and rear diffuser as the first A3 concept, plus its aluminium doors, bonnet and boot. But the addition of the plug-in hybrid componentry adds a lot of extra weight – the E-tron concept tips the scales at 180kg more than the 402bhp original, at 1720kg.
What’s beneath the skin of the Audi A3 E-tron concept?
Beneath the bodywork is a chassis derived from the current RS3 Sportback. That means four-wheel drive and a seven-speed double-clutch gearbox, but it gains inch bigger alloys (now 20s) and Audi’s Drive Select system. The latter has five modes (Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Individual and Efficiency) which tweak the settings of the engine, power steering and seven-speed S-tronic transmission.
And inside it’s another glimpse at the next-generation A3, with four circular air vents, three air-con controllers, a pop-up sat-nav, and the MMI rotary dial that now incorporates Audi’s trick touch pad. The rev counter is replaced by a ‘power metre’ similar to that available in the Q5 Hybrid.
The real A3 won't go on sale until 2012, but in the meantime you can see Audi's official sketches of its next A3 hatchback, Sportback and saloon here.
Porsche Cayenne (2011) upgrades announced
The Porsche Cayenne has been given a minor refresh for 2011. Even if you don't blink, you may miss it - but here's what you need to know about the modestly overhauled Cayenne 4x4 range.
What's new with the Porsche Cayenne?
Let's start with the Cayenne Diesel. The most unlikely of Porsches, the Cayenne Diesel SUV gets a mild engine tweak for 2011. A new variable-geometry turbocharger, revamped direct injection and a weight-saving programme cut 20kg from the porky SUV's kerb weight.
Power goes up 5bhp to 245bhp, while fuel economy gains an extra 0.8mpg as it rises to 39mpg combined. CO2 emissions drop to 189g/km. These result in a 0.2 second cut in the quoted 0-62mph time, down to 7.6 seconds. If you're above the law or on a derestricted autobahn you'll also appreciate the 2mph boost to top speed, now 137mph.
The Cayenne S Hybrid gets wider EV mode capability
For the Cayenne owner with Greenpeace membership, the Cayenne S Hybrid has received updates to the hybrid management systems.
You can now enjoy low-speed EV mode from cold start (previously the system only allowed EV mode once the engine was warmed-up), and nod knowingly at your Prius-driving friends as you crawl silently away from traffic lights in Kensington.
The Cayenne Turbo S now gets Powerkit options
Unrepentant Porsche absolutists will be delighted to know the new Cayenne Turbo can now be had with the Powerkit, that debuted with the Panamera Turbo S. The Powerkit brings a 40bhp bonus to the Cayenne Turbo's clearly insufficient 500bhp. Cayenne Turbo pilots can now dispatch peasants from their path with a 4.6 second 0-62 time, and flee prosecution with a 176mph top speed.
All with identical fuel economy and emissions figures to the standard Turbo. Two new titanium-aluminium turbochargers are chiefly responsible for the performance gain.
How can my friends tell I've got a 2011 Cayenne?
They can't, in proud Porsche design tradition. Apart from specifying Porsche Exclusive options like tinted LED tail lights, adaptive headlamps or quad exhausts, there are no apparent styling changes for 2011.
What's new with the Porsche Cayenne?
Let's start with the Cayenne Diesel. The most unlikely of Porsches, the Cayenne Diesel SUV gets a mild engine tweak for 2011. A new variable-geometry turbocharger, revamped direct injection and a weight-saving programme cut 20kg from the porky SUV's kerb weight.
Power goes up 5bhp to 245bhp, while fuel economy gains an extra 0.8mpg as it rises to 39mpg combined. CO2 emissions drop to 189g/km. These result in a 0.2 second cut in the quoted 0-62mph time, down to 7.6 seconds. If you're above the law or on a derestricted autobahn you'll also appreciate the 2mph boost to top speed, now 137mph.
The Cayenne S Hybrid gets wider EV mode capability
For the Cayenne owner with Greenpeace membership, the Cayenne S Hybrid has received updates to the hybrid management systems.
You can now enjoy low-speed EV mode from cold start (previously the system only allowed EV mode once the engine was warmed-up), and nod knowingly at your Prius-driving friends as you crawl silently away from traffic lights in Kensington.
The Cayenne Turbo S now gets Powerkit options
Unrepentant Porsche absolutists will be delighted to know the new Cayenne Turbo can now be had with the Powerkit, that debuted with the Panamera Turbo S. The Powerkit brings a 40bhp bonus to the Cayenne Turbo's clearly insufficient 500bhp. Cayenne Turbo pilots can now dispatch peasants from their path with a 4.6 second 0-62 time, and flee prosecution with a 176mph top speed.
All with identical fuel economy and emissions figures to the standard Turbo. Two new titanium-aluminium turbochargers are chiefly responsible for the performance gain.
How can my friends tell I've got a 2011 Cayenne?
They can't, in proud Porsche design tradition. Apart from specifying Porsche Exclusive options like tinted LED tail lights, adaptive headlamps or quad exhausts, there are no apparent styling changes for 2011.
Infiniti JX (2011): first sketch of new crossover
Infiniti is planning an R-class rival – the Infiniti JX. Announced today at the 2011 New York motor show, we have a first sketch on the big new Infiniti crossover wagon.
Infiniti JX – the lowdown
The Infiniti JX is a large crossover SUV, designed to slot in to the Infiniti line-up between the FX and the QX luxury off-roader. Infiniti describes the JX as being ‘an antidote to traditional ho-hum luxury crossovers’ on the market at the moment.
The JX has the ‘crescent’ rear pillar design seen on the Essence and Etherea concept cars, melded to a high-riding crossover SUV body which should fit in with the existing EX and FX in the Infiniti model line-up.
Inside, Infiniti is talking up a luxurious and versatile interior for the JX, with easy access to the third row of seats and the latest in-car infotainment systems. Compared with the behemoth QX, the JX should also offer a lighter, more efficient seven-seater package, better suited to on-road use.
A spokesman said the JX and QX would reflect the relationship between the Mercedes R-class and GL-class – three rows of seats, but one vehicle has an on-road focus, the other an off-roader. The JX sits on a new platform, and isn’t spun-off the current FX architecture.
When do we see the new Infiniti JX?
If you’re reading this at home in the UK, then the bad news is we don’t. The JX is primarily planned for the Americas, so expect large-displacement petrol engines that don’t sit well with our diesel-buying large car market. Infiniti is expanding its Americas sales network into Mexico, Panama and Chile, and having another crossover in the range would be ideal for emerging markets.
Infiniti plans to release details of the JX in concept form at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August 2011, prior to the production Infiniti JX appearing at the 2011 Los Angeles motor show in November 2011. Sales are scheduled for spring 2012.
Infiniti JX – the lowdown
The Infiniti JX is a large crossover SUV, designed to slot in to the Infiniti line-up between the FX and the QX luxury off-roader. Infiniti describes the JX as being ‘an antidote to traditional ho-hum luxury crossovers’ on the market at the moment.
The JX has the ‘crescent’ rear pillar design seen on the Essence and Etherea concept cars, melded to a high-riding crossover SUV body which should fit in with the existing EX and FX in the Infiniti model line-up.
Inside, Infiniti is talking up a luxurious and versatile interior for the JX, with easy access to the third row of seats and the latest in-car infotainment systems. Compared with the behemoth QX, the JX should also offer a lighter, more efficient seven-seater package, better suited to on-road use.
A spokesman said the JX and QX would reflect the relationship between the Mercedes R-class and GL-class – three rows of seats, but one vehicle has an on-road focus, the other an off-roader. The JX sits on a new platform, and isn’t spun-off the current FX architecture.
When do we see the new Infiniti JX?
If you’re reading this at home in the UK, then the bad news is we don’t. The JX is primarily planned for the Americas, so expect large-displacement petrol engines that don’t sit well with our diesel-buying large car market. Infiniti is expanding its Americas sales network into Mexico, Panama and Chile, and having another crossover in the range would be ideal for emerging markets.
Infiniti plans to release details of the JX in concept form at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August 2011, prior to the production Infiniti JX appearing at the 2011 Los Angeles motor show in November 2011. Sales are scheduled for spring 2012.
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