World Auto News & Reviews

The New Mercedes-Benz CL Debuts

The launch of the new CL-Class in autumn 2006 will be the culmination of a Mercedes-Benz coupe tradition going back over 50 years. The two-door model combines peerless exclusivity and charismatic design with the sort of cutting-edge technology that very few other manufacturers can match. The luxury Coupe raises the bar in terms of vehicle safety with the Pre-Safe brakes: the unique system automatically brakes the Coupe before an imminent rear-end collision. Furthermore, Mercedes innovations such as the Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system, the Intelligent Light System with five lighting functions and Pre-Safe anticipatory occupant protection all come as standard. Two powerful engines with 8 or 12 cylinders (CL 500 and CL 600) are available, delivering a notable increase in output and torque. Thanks to their exemplary smoothness they also live up to the Mercedes heritage of superb motoring refinement.

Powerful V12 Engine

The new luxury Mercedes-Benz CL 600 is ready for any challenge on motorways and rural roads thanks to its ultra-modern biturbo twelve-cylinder engine. Mercedes engineers have enhanced numerous de-tails of the power unit and, compared to the predecessor model, have increased output by 17 bhp to 517 bhp. The maximum torque, already on tap from 1900 rpm, has been improved further by 22 lb-ft to 613 lb-ft and remains constant up to 3500 rpm. The new CL 600 accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.6 seconds (previous model: 4.8 seconds). And despite the significant performance boost the V12 engine consumes 0.4 liters less fuel than the previous CL 600 per 100 kilometers.

Mercedes-Benz has combined the standard-fit automatic transmission with the new Direct Select gearshift: the driver can select the transmission settings “P”, “N”, “R” and “D” by nudging a lever on the steering column. Operating commands are transmitted electronically by wire.

Interior: Equipment For Even the Most Discerning Driver

Style finds its way into the interior too: the large side window aperture draws the eye to the stylish dashboard, exquisite wood trim and soft leather upholstery. In an instant you realize that everything in the interior of the new CL-Class is designed for comfort and relaxation. The atmosphere is reminiscent of an exclusive club: take a seat and enjoy. Five stylish color combinations are available; automatic climate control, Comand with car radio and CD/DVD player as well as a glass sunroof are all part of the standard specification, elements that come together to deliver a unique motoring and comfort experience.

In the top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz CL 600 the Exclusive Passion leather appointments, specially selected poplar wood and an Alcantara roof liner with quilted seams provide the finishing touches to an exquisite first-class ambience, a look and feel also echoed in the seats with their designo styling, the chromed door sill panels and floor mats with leather edging. The standard specification also includes dynamic multicontour seats with massage function and seat ventilation, the hard-disc navigation system Comand Aps, the Logic7 surround sound system with DVD changer and the Keyless-Go access and drive authorization system.

Active Body Control

The standard specification in the new Mercedes CL 600 features technological innovations that no other manufacturer can match anywhere in the world. First and foremost is the Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system, which in its latest, even more sophisticated guise delivers unprecedented handling dynamics while offering an equally appreciable improvement in ride comfort. Based on sensor signals and using specially designed hydraulic cylinders at the axles, ABC all but entirely eliminates the customary pitch and roll of the body that occur when moving off, cornering and braking. ABC responds with split-second speed to ensure the body damping is adjusted instantly to any situation. At speeds above 40 mph, ABC lowers the body by up to half an inch to reduce drag and improve handling stability.

Pre-Safe: Automatic Braking Before an Impending Accident

Mercedes-Benz is the world’s first car brand to develop an anticipatory occupant protection system that recognizes a potential accident situation in its early stages and takes anticipatory occupant protection measures: Pre-Safe is standard-fit on the new CL-Class. During emergency braking or when skidding is imminent, the system moves the passenger seat into the most favorable position so that seat belts and airbags have maximum effect on impact. It also inflates air cushions in the dynamic multicontour seats (standard in the CL 600), which envelop and support the driver and front passenger. Pre-Safe also closes the side windows and the sunroof in critical situations where high lateral dynamics are generated.

www.rsportscars.com

IRVINE, Calif., June 30 /PRNewswire/ — Jaguar is proud to announce its new supercharged sports cars — the 2007 Jaguar XKR Coupe and Convertible. Making its global debut at the 2006 London Motor Show on July 18, 2006, the all-new XKR takes the Jaguar experience to new heights.

Designed in parallel with the naturally aspirated 2007 XK Coupe and Convertible, the new supercharged XKR makes intelligent use of practical, modern technology such as its industry-leading aluminum monocoque body structure. In fact, the new XKRs’ aluminum chassis are significantly lighter and stiffer in both Coupe and Convertible form than the steel counterparts they replace.

A 420bhp, 4.2-liter supercharged V8 engine makes the Jaguar XKR capable of rapid 0-60 mph performance in just 4.9 seconds (XKR Coupe) and produces an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

Both XKR Coupe and Convertible exhibit enhanced performance styling cues such as a sportier new grille and front bumper design, a vented hood and distinctive aluminum-effect side power vents. Its unique option 19- or 20-inch alloy wheel designs and standard quad-exhaust system also add to its overall presence.

“The new supercharged XKR captures perfectly the essence of what makes a Jaguar XK so special,” commented Bibie Boerio, Jaguar Cars managing director. “It is a perfect combination of refined Grand Tourer and serious performance sports car that delivers a truly rewarding and exhilarating driving experience.”

Building on the excellence of the 2007 XKs introduced in 2005, the 2007 XKR is the epitome of a contemporary sports car and perfectly illustrates Jaguar’s philosophy of building beautiful, fast cars. It combines beauty with power, and style with dynamism to deliver a world-class performance automobile.

All-new 2007 Jaguar XKR At-A-Glance Highlights

* New supercharged Jaguar XK sports car - the XKR, available as a Coupe or Convertible

* All the attractions and attributes of the XK, but amplified in the ‘R’ to complement the extra power and performance

* 4.2-liter, supercharged V8 engine developing 420bhp and 413 lb.-ft. (560Nm) of torque

* 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.9 seconds and 155 mph (electronically limited) top speed

* All-aluminum construction means a lighter, stiffer vehicle, which improves handling and agility.

* Uprated springs and dampers, and recalibrated Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) system for enhanced ride and handling

* Class-leading six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel- mounted shift paddles for ultra-quick gear shifts in milliseconds

* Active Exhaust System to ensure cruising speed refinement, but purposeful V8 roar under hard acceleration

* Subtle XKR exterior styling enhancements include a sportier grille and front bumper design, vented hood, unique aluminum-effect side power vents and new wheel designs

* Enhanced interior includes unique aluminum ‘weave’ design on the fascia (polished burl walnut is optional at no extra cost) and XKR sports seats

* Intuitive controls and driver-focused technologies are available — including Keyless Entry, Keyless Start, advanced Touchscreen and Active Front Lighting

From its beginning as a manufacturer of motorcycle sidecars in 1922, Jaguar Cars has grown to become one of the world’s premier manufacturers of luxury sedans and sports cars and with that, one of the most recognized commercial brands. The company’s vision is simple: To produce beautiful fast cars that are desired the world over. The company operates two manufacturing plants in the United Kingdom and is fully engaged in environmental programs, community work and brand awareness exercises such as motorsports.

North America

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060630/DEF006
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

www.internetautoguide.com

Well, its official — Paramount Pictures is one hella leaky place. First it was those pictures we saw of the Camaro — then the Bumblebee pic Paramount asked us to take down — and now the teaser trailer’s hit the net almost a week before Michael Bay’s best laid plans had it written. In fact, so bad has it gotten, the boys and gitls at Paramount have said “screw it” to the whole plan of dropping the teaser trailer like a firecracker onto the official website on July 4th — and have gone ahead and dropped it early. So roll on over to see some pictures of a very mean Decepticon beat the snot out of a Mars rover — and with it, Michael Bay’s pride and PR rollout plan. Megatron, you bastard! [Hat tip as always — to our boy, Hue and TFW2005!]

Transformers Movie

Transformers Movie Leaks Coming Fast And Furious — Bumblebee Robot And Teaser Trailer Pics

Today we’ve seen a picture of a huge animatronic Bumblebee (who was just dressed up as a Camaro last time we saw him) from the new live-action Transformers movie scheduled for release next summer.

www.jalopnik.com

These spy shots of it, roaming the streets of Europe with minimal disguise, give a pretty good view of the new midsize sedan before its official unveiling in the next couple of months.

With the same overall shape as the Avenger, the Sebring will have to rely on its unique Chrysler details to set it apart. Up front it gets an egg-crate grille in place of the Avenger’s crosshair design. Upturned headlights are a common theme between the two cars, but this Sebring prototype also reveals the leading edges of hood scallops that will run all the way back to the cowl. This design element was first introduced on the Crossfire and it will extend to not only the 2007 Sebring but the 2007 Chrysler Pacifica as well.

Chrome door handles and wheels similar in design to those used on the Crossfire also mark this prototype as a Chrysler. A unique C-pillar shape is this Sebring’s most definitive change compared to the current model, giving the car’s rear end a new slope-backed look. Pretty or not, it gives the sedan a distinctive design in a segment known for unremarkable styling.

Built on a platform shared with Mitsubishi, the Sebring will be front-wheel drive and ride on a fully independent suspension. We expect to see a typical lineup of engines starting with the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder used in the Dodge Caliber. There’s a chance Chrysler may decide to forego the four-cylinder option to elevate the Sebring’s status above the Avenger, but the carmaker would be giving up a large chunk of the market by doing so. A 2.7-liter V6 will be the midgrade engine and, according to speculation by allpar.com, it will be a flex-fuel engine capable of running on E85 ethanol.

Top-of-the-line models were expected to get Chrysler’s current 3.5-liter V6; although, with competitors like the 268-horsepower Camry and 280-hp Volkswagen Passat, expect to see its current 250-hp rating bumped up a notch or two. Additional help will come in the form of a new six-speed automatic while lower trim levels will get a standard four-speed.

Expect to see an official unveil of the Sebring sedan and convertible by early summer with sales starting later this year.

Land Rover has issued the following press release:

Land Rover today revealed the all-new LR2 that enters the compact premium SUV market with outstanding breadth of capability and Land Rover’s signature technologies.

The fourth new model from Land Rover in just four years, LR2 joins the impressive line-up of Range Rover (2002), Land Rover LR3 (2004) and Range Rover Sport (2005) that together have seen record-breaking sales performance around the world.

As the latest addition to the world’s leading sport-utility vehicle manufacturer’s line-up, LR2 sets new standards in its segment. New from the ground up, LR2 delivers outstanding on-road performance as well as the class-leading off-road ability of a Land Rover. A dynamic design, purposeful stance, smart and spacious interior, and an abundance of advanced technologies complete the LR2 package.

“LR2 combines the advantages of a premium sedan – such as polished ride, accomplished performance, an attractive cabin and ease-of-use – with the attributes of a robust SUV, including go-anywhere ability, toughness, stadium seating, cabin versatility and spaciousness,” says Phil Popham, Land Rover’s managing director. “We believe that no other compact SUV gets closer to blending these best-of-both-worlds abilities.”

Technical highlights of the LR2 include a brand-new 3.2-liter inline-six engine featuring advanced technologies to deliver an outstanding combination of performance and economy.

The 230bhp* i6 engine provides 0-60 mph acceleration in 8.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds)*. The engine is matched to a new six-speed automatic transmission, with Land Rover’s CommandShift™ offering manual sequential gear changes when required. There is also a driver-selectable sport mode, for livelier performance.

Inline-six cylinder engine configurations are ideal for delivering smoothness, and the very compact new unit in LR2 is small enough to mount transversely. The benefits of transverse fitment include improved interior packaging and safety performance.

The interior package of LR2 has generous head, shoulder and legroom, in both the front and rear. Large glass areas emphasize the spacious feel and complement the elevated ‘command driving’ position – a Land Rover hallmark – and ‘stadium seating’, where rear passengers sit slightly higher than front occupants, for a clearer view of the world outside. Cargo space is also among the best in class: 59 cu. ft. (1670 liters)* with the rear seats folded and 26.5 cu. ft (755 liters)* with the rear seats up.

The exterior and interior design of LR2 is completely fresh, integrating the company’s unique design language with a form that is instantly recognizable as the latest Land Rover.

“We purposely kept strong Land Rover design cues, such as the clamshell bonnet, stepped roof and the basic form,” says Land Rover design director Geoff Upex. “The overall look is new and contemporary. The design is chiseled, geometric and simple – it looks like it’s hewn from the solid. We have kept a close design relationship with the LR3 and Range Rover Sport, but interpreted the design language to suit the requirements of customers for a more compact SUV.”

The body is a five-door monocoque structure, with a high level of torsional rigidity which benefits refinement, comfort and handling on-road as well as ensuring the vehicle is fit for serious off-road use. The suspension is fully independent and uses the most modern stability control systems, including Roll Stability Control (RSC ®), a sophisticated technology that helps mitigate the risk of roll-over even in extreme conditions.

LR2 is packed with new technologies to improve both on-road and off-road performance. Land Rover’s unique Terrain Response™ is standard, making off-road use easier. Other interesting technologies include a new intelligent permanent all-wheel-drive system for superior traction and better on-road fuel economy, and the patented Gradient Release Control, which improves driver confidence and control when releasing the brakes on steep and slippery slopes.

Other features and options include: keyless starter button, bi-xenon headlamps, adaptive front lighting, rain-sensing windshield wipers and rear park distance control. A standard two-part panoramic sunroof increases the cabin’s airiness; air-conditioning also comes standard and a full-color touch-screen DVD satellite navigation system is optional. A choice of top-level audio systems includes 12-speaker Dolby™ Pro Logic II 7.1 Surround Sound with fiber-optic interconnects. An auxiliary audio connection (for MP3 players) is standard.

Designed and engineered by Land Rover at Gaydon, near Warwick, England, LR2 is built at the Halewood plant in Liverpool, where outstanding build quality has been acknowledged with a JD Power European Plant Quality Gold Award in 2005.