Cars Space

Michael Schumacher has now signed a contract to return to formula one next year with Mercedes, according to multiple authoritative sources.

Germany's Bild newspaper and the BBC in Britain say the seven time world champion, who turns 41 in early January, has signed a one-year deal.

Bild, valuing the contract at 7 million euros, said the German's decision is the "biggest comeback in sports history". Schumacher reportedly signed the deal at Brackley, with an announcement to be made on Tuesday.

His spokeswoman Sabine Kehm would not comment, but Schumacher's friend Sebastian Vettel said he was happy to hear the news.

"This is his own decision for his own reasons but it makes me happy that he is going to be there. I hope he is still fit enough for his age to ride along with us," the Red Bull driver is quoted as saying by RTL Nachtmagazin.

Bild said Mercedes is seeking special permission so that Schumacher can test the Brawn car in January.

 
Source: GMM

 

 

 

At the 62nd IAA Commercial Vehicles Show which commences later this week, Volkswagen will unveil their Pickup Concept and building up to the event we can now bring you the first details and images of the model. It previews the full production model currently in development which we believe will carry the label Robust or possibly Taro. We have seen prototypes on a number of occasions but temporary body panels have withheld the final styling, this production looking concept gives us reason to believe the final model's styling will not veer far from what we see before us.

The Pickup Concept follows a beach patrol theme with its blue LED lights fitted on the roof of the vehicle and you can barely fail to see the SAR (search and rescue) stickers plastered on the side of its body. It boasts a five-foot cargo area along with a two piece tailgate that cleverly stores essential tools for the day to day operations of a beach patrol vehicle. It features a double-cab layout with a center console that has a multifunction touchscreen that controls the radio-navigation system

Volkswagen will begin production of the 1 ton truck in the fall of 2009 at its plant in Pachero Argentina with sales to begin soon after in the models key markets: South America, South Africa, Australia and Europe. There are no confirmations on when or if the pickup will make it to US shores, but surely that can't be too far round the corner.

Source: VW Commercial Vehicles via pickuptrucks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When we are looking for the latest designs of upcoming models, the EU Tradmark Office is hardly going to be our first port of call. But in the case of the 2010 Mazda3, we can tell you this has certainly been the case. The hackers over at Carscoop have managed to obtain a couple of documents (see additonal photos to the right) which seem to trademark the designs of the next generation Mazda3 model in all 27 countries of the EU.

We can't rule out the possibility that these drawings of the hatchback version of the Mazda3 could be fake, comparisons between these images and the camoflaged Mazda3 prototypes caught by our spies certainly show design similarities on the front end. Prototypes spotted so far have been solely in the sedan body style, making rear end comparisons too difficult to categorically confirm or deny.

We expect to see the sedan variant unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show this November, with the hatchback set to follow a couple of months later in Detroit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Press Release

In Brief

    * Comeback of a sports car legend:
    * Third generation of the Scirocco to be launched
    * New Scirocco will be available across Europe by mid-November

Scirocco is the right choice as an affordable sports car for every day of the year

The countdown is running for the new era Scirocco: the third generation of the sports car will already be arriving on the market in August. Volkswagen is staging the comeback of a legend with the debut of the two-door car – Scirocco generations I and II wrote history as the most successful Volkswagen coupé of all time with about 800,000 units sold.

Cult status. In particular, it is the original Scirocco presented in 1974 that has long held cult status. Because, in contrast to many of its competitors of that time, the Scirocco – designed by Giorgio Giugiaro – was an affordable car with everyday utility, and front-wheel drive also made it a safe sports car for use every day of the year.

Scirocco unites passion and logic

Fascination. The new Scirocco is extending this tradition. It offers pure driving pleasure, a new powerful design, high-end technologies such as DCC adaptive chassis control and the new 7-speed DSG dual clutch transmission. Plus: exclusive use of efficient turbo engines with up to 147 kW / 200 PS power, space for four adults despite its sporty lines, an extremely high level of safety and the everyday utility that is typical of every Volkswagen. This mix of passion and logic costs far less than one might guess based on the car’s key data.
New paths. Although the third generation of the Scirocco follows exactly the same positioning as the first one, Volks­wagen very intentionally avoided retro elements. In this regard too, the Scirocco of the year 2008 is a conceptually counterpart to the original version: because in the mid-1970s the successor to the Karmann Ghia also set out on new paths, both technically and visually.

Front end design of a new era

High-sheen black headlamp housing. The third Scirocco is the first Volks­wagen to sport the front end design of a new era. Especially characteristic here are the chrome lamp bodies and high-sheen black interior surfaces of the headlamp housings that are joined by the radiator grille cross bar that is also painted in high-sheen black.
Flawless sports car fundamentals. The VolkswageTwo crisply shifting dual clutch transmissionsn design team created a wagon-coupé based on flawless sports car fundamentals. This resulted in a side profile that had the potential to imbue this new Volkswagen too with a status that goes beyond class distinctions. Thanks to its long sweeping roofline and near-vertical rear window, it also frees up space for variability and up to 755 liters of cargo capacity.
Crisp dimensions. Other benchmark figures of the new sports car also speak a clear language. With its short overhangs, the Scirocco efficiently utilizes its 2,578 millimeter wheelbase to offer ample space. The Volkswagen is 1,404 millimeters tall, exactly 4,256 millimeters long and its width measures 1,810 millimeters.

Four turbo engines at market introduction

A lot of power for just a little fuel. One challenge in creating an affordable sports car involves the engines. On the one hand, they must absolutely be agile, yet it is also essential that they be economical and widely affordable. There are two approaches to resolving this apparent conflict Both of them have three letters: TDI and TSI – turbocharged diesel and gasoline direct injection engines.
One TDI and three TSIs. At the market introduction Volkswagen will offer the Scirocco with two TSI engines (118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS). Shortly thereafter, a TDI (common rail turbo-diesel, 103 kW / 140 PS) and another TSI (90 kW / 122 PS) will be added to the engine lineup. Decisive here is the fact that even the 122-PS base engine offers a maximum of torque at extremely low engine speeds (200 Newton-meter starting at 1,500 rpm). Its average fuel consumption of 6.1 liters per 100 kilometers shows considerable restraint.
5.4 to 7.7 liters fuel consumption. The combination of maximum torque and minimum consumption is a common theme running through the entire engine lineup. In the case of the latest TSI with 160 PS, 240 Newton-meter torque contrasts with just 6.5 liters super unleaded per 100 kilometers. And even on the 200-PS TSI with its considerable 280 Newton-meter of torque, fuel consumption is just 7.7 liters. As would be expected, the TDI also makes a brilliant showing here: 320 Newton-meter of powerful torque while being satisfied with just 5.4 liters of fuel. Incidentally, all engines up to 160 PS already satisfy the future Euro-5 emissions standard*.

Two crisply shifting dual clutch transmissions

6-speed and 7-speed DSG. Standard equipment on the Scirocco is the smoothly and precisely shifting 6-speed transmission. The DSG dual clutch transmission is offered as an option on the three engines starting at 140 PS. A 6-speed DSG is used with the TDI and the powerful 200 PS TSI. The 160-PS TSI distributes its power over an even broader range of gears with the 7-speed DSG.

Optional sport chassis with three level settings

Clever Chassis. Ideally tailored to the Scirocco is the new DCC adaptive chassis control system. Not only is the damper characteristic controlled here, but also tuning of the electro-mechanical power steering. Adaptive chassis control offers the three programs “Normal”, “Sport” and “Comfort”. Significant here is the fact that adaptive chassis control improves the driving characteristics of the Scirocco full-time. That is, the suspension is continually adapted to the roadway and driving situation. The system also reacts to accelerator, brake and steering inputs. It is able to resolve the conflict in goals between a tight sport suspension and a comfortable one.

Standard features

Full program. The new Scirocco is one of the most attractive sports cars in terms of price. And yet its standard features place it on the same level as far more expensive coupés. Always on board are 17-inch alloy wheels, height-adjustable driver and front passenger seats, leather steering wheel, parking brake handle and shifting lever grip, sport seats, split folding rear seatbacks, power windows, air conditioning, ESP, braking assistant, six airbags, power steering and of course a sport chassis. On the top 200 PS model, standard equipment also includes chrome tailpipes, a “Titanium black” roof liner and a sound generator.

Panorama vent sunroof

Transparent roof. Supplying vast amounts of light to the interior is an optional large panorama vent sunroof that extends from the A-pillars to the B-pillars. At the press of the button the transparent roof opens up to 39 millimeters. When the sun is intense, a sunshade can be driven into place. But that is not likely to be necessary very often, since the glass of the panorama vent sunroof only transmits 8.2 percent of the UV radiation, 2.8 percent of the infrared radiation (heat) and 6.9 percent of the visible light.

Scirocco - Fact Sheet
Key aspects in alphabetical order

    * Automatic transmission: 6-speed and 7-speed DSG
    * Body: With panorama vent sunroof upon request
    * Cargo capacity: 292 liters to 755 liters
    * Character: Genuine, affordable sports car with space for four adults, status beyond class distinctions
    * Chassis: McPherson front suspension, four-link rear suspension, ESP is standard
    * Colors: “Candy white”, “Rising blue metallic”, “Deep black pearl effect”, “Reflex silver metallic”, “Shadow blue metallic”, “Beryllium gray metallic”, “Dark maroon metallic”, “Opal silver metallic”, “Salsa red”, “Viper green metallic” (the latter in homage to the first generation of Sciroccos)
    * Debut of generation I: 1974; 504,153 units built
    * Debut of generation II: 1981; 291,497 units built
    * Design: Visual look of flawless sports car fundamentals, first Volkswagen with new front end design, wagon-coupé with extremely long roof (1.8 meters). Design responsibility: Walter de Silva (Group), Klaus Bischoff (Brand)
    * Dimensions: 4,256 mm long, 1,810 mm wide, 1,404 mm tall, extremely wide tread width (front 1,569 mm, rear 1,575 mm)
    * Drive: Front-wheel
    * Engine power range: 90 kW / 122 PS to 147 kW / 200 PS, all engines are charged, all engines up to 160 PS satisfy Euro-5 emissions standard*
    * Engines – diesel (TDI): 103 kW / 140 PS, 125 kW / 170 PS
    * Engines – gasoline (TSI): 90 kW / 122 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS, 147 kW / 200 PS
    * Fuel consumption range: 5.4 to 7.7 liters fuel per 100 kilometers
    * High-tech driving systems: DCC adaptive chassis control, ACC automatic distance control (starting early 2009)
    * Infotainment: Two radio systems, two radio-navigation systems, 300 Watt Dynaudio sound system, MEDIA-IN port (USB)
    * Market introduction: August 29, 2008 in Germany and Great Britain, by November across Europe, in May 2009 in Japan
    * Production site: “Volkswagen Autoeuropa – Automóveis Ltda.” in Palmela, Portugal
    * Racing use: At the start of the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring in May 2008 with powerful 238 kW / 325 PS racing version; results: double victory in its class.
    * Safety: Six airbags, exceptionally rigid body, ESP, Isofix child seat mounting brackets, special pedestrian protection features, front passenger airbag can be deactivated (for rear-facing child seat), in case of crash: automatic activation of hazard flasher and interior lights, automatic door opening, automatic deactivation of fuel pump
    * Standard features: Include 17-inch alloy wheels, height-adjustable driver and front passenger seats, leather steering wheel and parking brake handle, newly designed sport seat system, split folding rear seatbacks, power windows, air conditioning, ESP, braking assistant, six airbags, power steering with countersteer feature, sport chassis
    * Standard transmission: 6-speed manual

* Due to current vehicle registration laws, the vehicles can only be registered for the current Euro-4 emission standard initially. It will then be possible for the car owner to re-classify or re-register the vehicle at additional charge.
Source: VW

 

 

Nissan takes the environmental issue very seriously, arguably more so than Bob Lutz personally, and is constantly pushing ahead with their Electric Vehicle (EV) range. Plans are that Japan and California will see the first pure electric cars, based on the Japanese Cube minicar, by 2010. This first wave will initially be sold to a test fleet market before retail customers can lay their hands on the Nissan EV. Last week at the Geneva Motor Show, two senior Nissan Execs talked to Automotive News and went into a few details. First of all that the Nissan EV will be based on the Nissan Cube (pictured) but may not necessarily be called that and will use an engine powered by a range of Lithium-Ion batteries developed by the new joint-venture between Nissan and NEC Corp. "The technology will first appear in a small vehicle," Masahiko Tabe, Nissan's manager of advanced vehicle engineering said. "The New York show will give you some hints." We will see a battery powered concept car at the upcoming motor show in New York that will hint to the styling and techonology of this EV. The new electric car should be good for 100 miles (commuters average 62 miles a day), a top speed of 75 mph and a full recharge should take about 8 hours. Source: Nissan

The unveiling of the BMW M1 Homage design study has really got the world talking, will the German manufacturer create a successor to the legendary M1 supercar? At the moment we are all left guessing the true intentions for the M1, but clearly the M1 Homage is a step in the right direction for a full production model. The attention the M1 Homage has been receiving has been immense that we saw it fit to post not, one, but two videos and just yesterday a very nice photoshop surfaced on the web courtesy of Dutch designer “H0SS “. Now we believe it is time for a trip down memory lane, the video above shows the original M1 supercar (street version) in the orange livery racing round the world famous Nurburgring - and we do mean “racing”, you will see hear what we mean in the video. Keep watching until the end for a short beauty footage clip and check out the additional high-res photos. Source: BMW

 

PERFORMANCE

- 2.0 TFSI direct injection engine with manual or S tronic (aka DSG) front-wheel drive
- Stats: 200 hp, 207 lb-ft torque
- 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds (manual); city/hwy 20/29
- 0-60 mph in (TBD) seconds (S tronic); city/hwy 22/29
- 0-60 mph in (TBD) seconds (S tronic quattro; city/hwy TBD

- 3.2 V6 engine with quattro permanent all-wheel drive with S tronic
- Stats: 250 hp, 236 lb-ft; 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds (S tronic); city/hwy 18/25

- Audi A3 is a typical Audi statement of form, function, as well as sporty, sophisticated, and progressive. It maintains its competitive edge in safety, performance, and technology. Safety is tops in the industry via its first IIHS "Top Safety Pick" designation for top frontal, side, and rear crash performance, awarded in late 2007. Top performance, efficiency, and fuel economy is achieved via the high tech 2.0 TFSI, which has as much overall power/torque as traditional V6 engines.

New for 2009:
- quattro AWD now available with 2.0 TFSI (200 hp, transverse layout)
- Magnetic Ride Control is optional
- Updated ESP
- Up-shift light
- LED Daytime Running lights for Bi-xenon
- Headlamps with daytime running lights
- Hood and front fenders
- Grille design
- Front bumper
- Tail lamp design
- Wheel program
- Interior: decorative inlays, interior colors, instrument bezels in white colors
- Pricing and equipment TBD until Fall 2008 at time of launch during normal model year changeover period.


NOTEWORTHY VEHICLE PHILOSOPHY

- A3 is specifically a car for people living in urban areas who still want German luxury, style, function, and performance.
- May 2005 launched the US version of the A3, known as the "A3 Sportback" around the world.
- A3 has received regular optional lifecycle upgrades, including the Titanium package which is an upgrade of the S line package from quattro GmbH, Audi's performance and equipment upgrade subsidiary.

NOTABLE FEATURES

Exterior

- Single-frame front grill design
- Brake disc wiping that optimizes braking performance in wet or inclement weather
- Satellite radio antenna with standard Sirius satellite radio

Interior

- Bauhaus front dashboard with wraparound aluminum or wood trim, similar to Audi TT
- Usable dual cupholders in center console and two power outlets
- Dual-zone climate control system
- 10-speaker sound system, Bose premium sound available


ACCOLADES: AUDI A3

- (2007) AutoWeek's Reader's Choice – Best Economy Car: A3
- (2007) IIHS Top Safety Pick: A3, A4 and A6
- (2007) Sacramento Bee – Bee's Best Bets: A3, A4 and A8
- (2007) Auto Pacific Ideal Vehicle Award: A3
- (2007) Auto Pacific - Vehicle Satisfaction Award: A3
- (2006-2008) Ward's 10 Best Engine: 2.0T in A3
- (2008) ForbesAutos.com – Ten Best Cars for City Dwellers: A3


PRICE AND EQUIPMENT NOT AVAILABLE UNTIL FALL 2008

 

Right sized crossover

The all new Dodge Journey is set to make it global debut at the upcoming 2007 Frankfurt International Motor Show this September. Dodge's latest model will be available early 2008 in the USA and mid 2008 in European showrooms. It is based on the global D-segment platform, like the new Avenger but measures in at 2890 mm (124 mm more than the Avenger) in order to accommodate the 5+2 seating arrangement.

Dodge is claiming to have the perfect solution for any family combining the functionality of a minivan, the capability of an SUV and the overall efficiency of a passenger car. “The all-new Dodge Journey gives our customers the entire package,” said Michael Manley. Of course Chrysler's Stow 'n Go system can be found in the crossover, making optimal use of the available space below seats.

Four engines will be available: a fuel efficient 2.4 liter four-cylinder World Engine (173 hp), an E85 capable Flexible Fuel Vehicle 2.7 liter V6 (186 hp), a 3.5 liter V6 with 6-speed automatic with AWD (235 hp) in North America, and a 2.0 liter turbo diesel (140 hp) for markets other than North America. The regular safety features like air-bags on all sides, ABS brakes and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) will be standard on the Journey, optional for the US is the back-up camera and AWD system.

We expect pricing to be announced closer to its showroom launch date.

Spacious Interior Room for the Entire Journey

A key target for the Dodge Journey’s design team was delivering a practical, flexible interior, with seating and innovative storage features typically only found in a minivan, and the final product delivers.

Dodge Journey’s two-box exterior design means more room for seating people and storing gear on the interior. Journey offers a choice of two seating configurations to balance buyers’ needs for passenger seating and cargo room. Five-passenger seating is standard on all models, while 5+2-passenger seating is available on all models. The Journey’s available third row gives passengers 2 inches (51 mm) more head room than leading North American competitors.

Storing things “under the front seat” takes on an entirely new meaning, thanks to Journey’s available Flip ’N Stow™ in-seat storage. The Journey’s front passenger seat cushion flips forward to reveal a large 10.75 x 8.75-inch (273 x 222 mm) bin under the seat cushion. The bin is large enough to store a purse, umbrella, planner or headphones with the seat down. The seat cushion is hinged, and when flipped forward, provides access to the storage bin.

Dodge Journey’s rear doors open 90 degrees, making it easier for people to get in and out of the second row and gain access to the available third-row seat.

In the second row, the all-new Dodge Journey features theater seating, which gives passengers in the second and third row the ability to see outside the vehicle, which is especially helpful for keeping kids entertained on long drives. The second row H-point is 1.6 inches (40 mm) higher than the first row. The available third row sits another .6 inches (17 mm) higher than the second row and 2.2 inches (57 mm) higher than the first-row seats.

Located in the floor behind the front-row seats are two standard in-floor storage bins that are designed to hold 12, 12-oz. (330 ml) cans plus ice or other items conveniently out of sight. For added convenience, the bins feature latching lids and removable, washable liners, so they’re a snap to clean.

Additional thoughtful features that make Dodge Journey more flexible for families include a child presenter seat on all models that makes it easy for the driver to attend to a small child seated in the second row when the vehicle is stationary. The child presenter seat works by allowing the 60 percent portion of the 60/40 fold-flat second row seat to travel 2 inches (51 mm) forward. With the front passenger seat folded flat, the driver can easily reach to the back to assist a child in the second row.

Dodge Journey is the first vehicle in the mid-size crossover segment to offer available integrated child booster seats. These available seats boost a child seated in the second row 4 inches (102 mm) so they’re seated in the adult belted zone. This makes it easier for the child seated in the booster seat to see outside the vehicle. The booster seat is designed for children who are as much as 4 foot 9 inches (1.45 m) tall and between 48 lbs. (22 kg) and 85 lbs. (39 kg).

The second-row seats also move forward and rearward a total of 4.7 inches (120 mm) to give adults more leg room, bring children closer to the front seats and provide more cargo room behind the seats. Folding the second row and the available fold-flat front passenger seat flat creates plenty of room for hauling home lumber needed to assemble a playscape or skis from the slopes.

On five-passenger models, a tri-fold load floor is located behind the second-row seat and provides a hidden storage compartment for added utility. The load floor is reversible and configures into a “grocery bag” position. The primary side of the folding panel is carpeted for durability.

The available third-row seat is easy to operate and get into, thanks to Journey’s stadium Tip ’N Slide™ second-row seats. With the turn of a single lever on the side of the seat back, the seat cushions easily fold upward and the seat slides forward. Journey’s available 50/50-split-folding third-row seat provides enough room for two passengers on an as needed basis. The seatback reclines 6 degrees to make the ride even more comfortable. A rear in-floor hidden storage bin located behind the available third-row seat is standard on 5+2-passenger vehicles.

In addition to seating and storage features, Dodge Journey’s versatile and functional interior features a two-tone color scheme with high-contrast dark and light colors. A combination of Dark Slate Gray and Medium Slate Gray is available on SE models. A two-tone combination of Dark Slate Gray and Light Graystone or Dark Pebble Beige and Light Pebble Beige is available on SXT and R/T models. A premium soft-skin instrument panel provides a sense of quality and craftsmanship. Chrome accents the upper center bin latch, door handle, shifter bezel and door lock knobs and instrument cluster bezel. Journey R/T models add chrome touches on radio and climate control knobs.

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey also features three types of seat upholstery: cloth is standard on the SE model, YES Essentials® stain-resistant, odor-resistant, anti-static seat fabric is available on the SE model and standard on the SXT model and leather is standard on the R/T model.

Innovative, Clever Features Deliver Flexibility

Many of Dodge Journey’s innovative and clever features are designed to be easily operated. Journey’s many user-friendly features include:

• Technologies 

  • MyGIG™ cutting-edge multimedia audio and entertainment system 
  • Available ParkView™ Rear Backup Camera displays the view behind the vehicle in the navigation display when backing up or parking 
  • Available Full-color, GPS Map Navigation System with 7-inch (17.8 cm) display provides convenient directions and traffic alerts 
  • Chill Zone™ cooled beverage storage bin located in the glove box helps keep two cooled 12-oz. (330 ml) cans cool through the air conditioning system or fresh air inlet 
  • YES Essentials Premium Cloth Seats are stain resistant, odor resistant and anti static for easy cleaning and a long-lasting appearance 
  • Available Aimable LED Map/Reading Lamps provide focused light without distracting the driver 
  • Available Removable, Rechargeable LED Flashlight is stored in the rear cargo area for convenient light when needed 
  • Illuminated Cup Holders glow blue green for easy nighttime access 
  • Available Rear-seat Entertainment System includes an 8-inch (20.3 cm) color monitor that works with the radio DVD player. The display conveniently folds down from the headliner to entertain rear seat passengers 
  • Available 115-volt, 150-watt Power Inverter on the rear of the console powers small household appliances (available in North America) 
  • Available SIRIUS™ Digital Satellite Radio offers a variety of subscription-based radio programs and music for enhanced listening enjoyment (available in North America) 
  • Available UConnect™ provides convenient, hands-free communication with BlueTooth™ cellular phones 
  • Four 12-volt Power Points for powering small electronics. Two are in the front, one is in the second row and one is in the cargo area 
  • Available Remote Start starts a secured vehicle with the key fob for added convenience (available in North America)

• Seating and Storage 

  • Standard Five-passenger Seating with Available 5+2 Seating provides flexible seating and cargo capability 
  • Available Occasional Use, 5+2, 50/50-split Third-row Seat with Recline feature folds flat for added cargo space when not in use 
  • 90-degree Rear Door Openings make it easier to load and install child safety seats and provides access the available 5+2 seating 
  • Fold-flat Front Seat with Flip ’N Stow provides storage under the seat cushion and a table-like surface when folded flat for added cargo flexibility. The seat cushion flips forward to reveal a 10.75 x 8.75-inch (273 x 222 mm) bin. The cushion can remain in the forward position to prevent items from sliding onto the floor 
  • Two Second-row In-floor Storage Bins located in the floor behind the front row seats are designed to hold 12, 12-oz. (330 ml) cans plus ice or other items conveniently out of sight. The bins feature latching lids and removable, washable liners for added convenience 
  • Stadium Tip ’N Slide Seat provides easy entry to the third row with one-hand, one-motion operation 
  • Tri-fold Load Floor located behind the second-row seats provides a hidden storage compartment for added utility. The load floor is reversible and configures into a “grocery bag” position. The primary side of the folding panel is carpeted for durability 
  • Rear In-floor Storage Bin for 5+2 Passenger Vehicles includes a hidden storage bin behind the third-row seat. For added utility, a door in the bottom of the bin provides access to the tool and jack storage compartment 
  • Child Presentation Feature allows the driver to attend to a small child in the second-row seat when the vehicle is stationary 
  • Available Child Booster Seats for children 4 foot 9 inches (1.45 m) tall and between 48 lbs. (22 kg) and 85 lbs. (39 kg), raises the child into the adult belted zone 
  • Activity Center in second row seatback folds forward to provide two cup holders and a bin for storage of small electronics, snacks, crayons or other small items 
  • Sunglass Bin with Child Observation Mirror features convex glass for a wide field of view that allows the driver and front passenger to conveniently view the rear occupants 
  • Sliding Center Arm Rest moves forward 3 inches (76 mm) for driver comfort 
  • Available Heated Front Seats with Leather or Premium Cloth enhance the comfort of the driver and front passenger (segment exclusive in North America) 

• Molded Map Pockets with Bottle Holders in all four doors enhance storage and convenience

Powertrains Provide Efficiency, Flexibility, Fun-to-drive Factor

The front-wheel-drive Dodge Journey features a four-wheel independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear suspension. Front and rear suspension crossmembers are isolated to the body to create a quiet ride, with less road noise, vibration and harshness. AWD is available on Dodge Journey models sold in the United States and Canada on vehicles equipped with the 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard.

Dodge Journey features several different engine/transaxle combinations designed to meet the needs of the diverse mid-size crossover buyer. These include a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine, a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) 2.7-liter V-6 engine that can run on E-85, an available 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick for the United States and Canada and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine equipped with a six-speed manual or automatic transaxle for markets outside North America.

Dodge Journey’s standard 2.4-liter World Engine provides an estimated fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway (approximately 9 liters per 100 km on the European combined cycle), as well as solid, quiet performance. Journey’s 2.4-liter World Engine is coupled with a standard four-speed automatic transaxle in the United States and Canada, as well as a five-speed manual transaxle in most markets outside North America. It features dual variable valve timing, intake manifold flow control valves, acoustic cylinder head covers, dual counter-rotating balance shafts and an acoustic oil pan. Mated to a four-speed automatic transaxle, this engine produces 173 horsepower (129 kW) and 166 lb.-ft. (225 N•m) of torque.

Dodge Journey also features an available 2.7-liter V-6 engine, coupled with a four-speed automatic transaxle that is offered as an FFV in North America. The flex-fuel engine produces 186 horsepower (138 kW) and 191 lb.-ft. (259 N•m) of torque and delivers an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway (approximately 10 liters per 100 km on the European combined cycle). The Journey’s 2.7-liter engine with flexible fuel capability has the ability to operate effectively on any blend of gasoline and fuel-grade ethanol up to E-85. Outside North America, this 2.7-liter V-6 engine is coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle.

Dodge Journey R/T and R/T AWD vehicles available in the United States and Canada feature a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 235 horsepower (175 kW) and 232 lb.-ft. (315 N•m) of torque coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle that comes standard with Auto Stick. This engine delivers an estimated 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. This 3.5-liter V-6 engine also is available on SXT models sold in the United States and Canada. The combination of the 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with the six-speed automatic transaxle delivers excellent performance and fuel efficiency, as well as quiet operation.

In markets outside North America, Dodge Journey offers a modern 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transaxle. This 16-valve diesel engine is a state-of-the-art direct-injection power plant with high-pressure fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder. The injectors are electronically controlled for high power and torque output and optimal fuel efficiency. Maximum power is 140 horsepower DIN (103 kW), and peak torque is 229 lb.-ft. (310 N•m). The engine is expected to deliver excellent overall performance and fuel economy of under 7 liters per 100 km (European combined cycle). A diesel particulate filter is standard from the factory.

Six-speed Transaxle Provides Quick Acceleration, Quiet Ride

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey R/T and R/T AWD models available in the United States and Canada, as well as 2.7-liter models sold outside North America, feature a standard six-speed automatic transaxle, which provides quicker standing-start acceleration than a four- or five-speed transaxle because of a numerically higher first-gear ratio. A more robust differential with increased torque capacity enhances launch performance by requiring less torque management, electronically limiting the torque that is available during the initial stages of standing-start acceleration. Smaller steps between ratios also make for a smoother, quieter ride, as the engine speed doesn’t change as much with each shift. In addition, more ratio choices, more appropriate ratios for quicker acceleration and a lower overall top gear ratio provide a quiet ride and improved fuel economy at highway speeds.

Dual-clutch Transaxle Technology Delivers Quick Acceleration, Refined Shift Quality and Improved Fuel Economy
The all-new Dodge Journey will be available with a new dual-clutch transaxle in markets outside of North America. This is the first application of this six-speed automatic transaxle, and it will be available with the 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine. It is expected to deliver a fuel economy improvement of as much as six percent compared with a conventional four-speed automatic transaxle.

Developed in partnership with Getrag, the new transaxle is equipped with two independent lay-shaft style gear sets with separate clutches, that use manual transaxle-based components. During shifts, the next gear is anticipated and pre-selected. One clutch is then opened while the other is closed, allowing shifting without torque interruption. The result is quicker acceleration, refined shift quality and improved fuel economy.

AWD Keeps All Four Wheels Planted

Dodge Journey SXT and R/T models sold in the United States and Canada equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine also offer AWD capability. Journey’s all-wheel-drive system works on demand, driving only the front wheels until power to the rear wheels is needed. AWD also is used on dry pavement between speeds of 25 and 65 mph (40-105 km/h) to enhance handling during performance driving. This system provides added traction on snow, ice and other low-traction surfaces without having to be switched on and off.

Engineered to a High Safety Standard

From its high-strength structure to its active safety systems, Dodge Journey is designed and engineered to keep its occupants safe and secure. Standard safety equipment includes: 

• Advanced Multi-stage Front Air Bags provide nearly instantaneous occupant protection by matching air bag output to crash severity 
• Low-risk Deployment Air Bags are included for smaller and out-of-position occupants 
• Front Seat-mounted Side Air Bags deploy for enhanced thorax protection during a side impact 
• Supplemental Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtains with Extended Up Time deploy down to provide all three rows vehicle occupant head protection during side impact 
• Structural Driver and Front Passenger Knee Bolsters control occupant kinematics and reduce leg loads 
• Available Child Booster Seats for children 4 foot 9 inches (1.45 m) tall and between 48 lbs. (22 kg) and 85 lbs. (39kg) raise the child into the adult belted zone 
• Anti-lock brakes (ABS) modulate the brakes for the driver to provide steering control while braking 
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) applies selective braking or throttle reduction to control oversteer and understeer 
• Brake Assist ensures maximum braking action during panic stops 
• Traction Control reduces the throttle and/or applies selective braking to optimize traction during acceleration 
• Electronic Roll Mitigation determines when the vehicle is in a potential roll over condition and applies appropriate braking force to reduce the likelihood that such an event will occur 
• Rollover Sensing deploys seat-mounted side air bags, side-curtain air bags and seat-belt pretensioners 
• Trailer Sway Control helps maintain vehicle and trailer system stability by applying selective braking 
• Event Data Recorder records the nature of a malfunction or impact event for retrieval using a service diagnostic tool 
• Available ParkView™ Rear Backup Camera displays the view behind the vehicle in the navigation display when backing up or parking 
• Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) alerts drivers to low tire pressure(s) to facilitate safe handling 
• Brake-park Interlock prevents automatic transaxle from being shifted out of Park or Neutral without first applying brakes 
• Side Guard Door Beams in front and rear doors provide occupant protection in the event of a side impact

 

Press Release

Spring is in the air for those that dwell in the northern hemisphere and with spring comes dry, warm sunny weather. Most classic car enthusiasts will already be preparing their beloved machines for the new season ahead. Generally, valuable classic cars are taken out of commission during the cold winter months to preserve the mechanicals and the body work from corrosion and deterioration.

Heightened activity in classic cars means an equal gain in activity for classic car event organisers as the next 6 months is their peak season. One of the first major events is the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este to be held near Lake Como.

More than fifty exotic pieces of machinery will be brought out into the spring sunlight from various marques. Vehicles such as the 1967 Pininfarina Dino 206 Competizione from Ferrari, a 1938 540 K Autobahnkurier from Mercedes (one of only two ever made) and the 1950 Mille Miglia winning Ferrari 166 MM Touring Berlinetta will make an appearance. The calibre of vehicles is extremely high which makes it even more of an honour that this event is to be BMW’s showcase for celebrating the 30th birthday of it’s iconic M1 sportscar.

The M1 was BMW’s answer to the all conquering Porsche 935 which was dominating the Group 5 series back in 1976. Essentially the M1 was a homologation special, the rules of which dictated that BMW would have to build 400 vehicles over a two year period to qualify. During the gestation period, the BMW M1’s design flirted with Lamborghini chassis builders before financial difficulties at the Italian automaker forced BMW to bring much of the work back in house. Guigiaro’s Ital design came up with the M1’s timeless shape. BMW’s M88 3.5L twin cam 24 valve straight 6 churned out an impressive 277hp from its mid engined position which gave the M1 huge cross- continental potential with 160+mph performance available.

The ironic twist in the M1’s tale is that homologation rules deemed that all 400 vehicles be built and sold to the public before it could race in the group 5 category, something BMW never achieved until 1981. By this time the game had moved on and BMW’s M1 was outclassed by more modern machinery.

Nevertheless this vehicle is still an icon for the Bavarian brand and was the first of many “M” vehicles to grace our roads and thirty years on it still cuts a distinctive edge amongst the more modern pack of supercars.

The Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este will held over the weekend of the 25th to 27th of April.

 

 

Good and bad news coming out for the Tesla camp in San Carlos, California.  The company, which has a highly anticipated all-electric sports car coming to the market this year, was granted a waiver by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on a key airbag issue that could have stalled production, and possibly bankrupted the company.

According to the Associated Press, the NHTSA decided yesterday that the automaker had gone to great lenths to comply with a mandate forcing car companies to install advanced airbags on all new models.  The stepped-up safety measure uses airbags that release with an adjusted amount of force, depending on the impact of each individual crash.  This news comes on the heels of the Tesla Roadster's passing grade in U.S crash testing.

Citing the company's desire to also bring a fully electric sedan to market by 2010, and Tesla's $43 million operating losses from 2003-2006, the NHTSA granted a three-year exemption on the advanced air bag rule to Tesla.  The $98,000 Tesla Roadster will still have standard airbags.

Of course, this would all be fair and good if the first production Tesla had made it to San Carlos in the first place.  Greentech Media is reporting that the first real Tesla Roadster was trucked to Amsterdam presumably from the Hethel Engineering Centre in Norfolk, England.  The car was supposed to be loaded on a plane, with arrival at company headquarters happening sometime today.

Sadly, the car missed its flight at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, and should now reach San Carlos sometime later this week.

Despite reports of transmission problems with the Roadster, the first edition of the car should begin building on March 17.  The Series One Hundred edition of the Tesla Roadster sold out thanks to pre-orders taken in 2006 pre-order.  The company plans on building a total of 625 Roadsters in 2008, and 800 each year through 2010.
Source: AP, Greentech Media