Jeep Grand Cherokee S-Limited UK Version, 2008

Jeep Grand Cherokee S-Limited UK Version, 2008

 

 

 

New soft-touch interior dashboard materials, interior colours and new textures all help to make the new Jeep Grand Cherokee even more desirable while a host of new features - tilt and telescope steering column, improved steering wheel and armrests for improved ergonomics and comfort, new instrument clusters and floor console with improved cup holders - all add to the high-class ambience.

In addition, Limited and Overland models get a new leather-wrapped parking brake handle and the Overland gets a new leather package on seats, doors and dashboard and heated second row seats.

The MyGIG infotainment system is a new option that offers owners the very latest integrated onboard systems. There's MP3 player compatibility, a touch screen controlled navigation system as well as the ability to store up to 1600 songs on an integrated 20GB hard drive. The UConnect Hands-free Communication System uses Bluetooth technology to provide voice-activated wireless communication.

On the exterior, a new front fascia and grille surround with a new body-colour front sill and air dam give the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee a more modern look, together with a new range of alloy wheels and a new headlamp design.

For 2008, a whole new model will also be added to the range - The Jeep Grand Cherokee S-Limited. The S-Limited model includes all of the refinements for 2008 and adds many of the visual enhancements that make the high-performance Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 such a visual feast. These standard features include SRT-inspired exterior features including front fascia and side sill moulding, unique 'Arrowhead' 18-inch alloy wheels, SRT body-coloured wire mesh front grille and body coloured wing mirrors, rear spoiler and deep tint windows.. On the inside the S-Limited gets MyGIG 'entertainment' system as standard, SRT-8 leather steering wheel, gear shifter and aluminium bezel finishes and dark slate grey leather interior trim on seats, doors and dashboard.

STYLING - EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR
The Jeep Grand Cherokee's design offers an athletic and contemporary appearance. The exterior design has a high belt line with deep doors and shallow glass for a reduced glass-to-body proportion. The wide track pushes the wheels out to the body edges, giving Grand Cherokee a secure appearance of being planted on the road.

For the high-performance halogen headlamps, designers adopted a rounded traditional Jeep appearance and gracefully integrated them into a powerful bonnet form. The bonnet, air dam and exterior mirrors were developed in Chrysler's full-size leading-edge wind tunnel in Auburn Hills, Michigan, to minimise wind noise and drag, and maximise aerodynamic benefits. The air dam is removable for serious off-road driving.

The shape of the body sides have been designed to protect the flanks of the vehicle from potential road debris thrown off the tyres. The heavy side cladding used on the previous model is replaced with a more efficient body-side shape and mouldings that are incorporated into the design. The doors are skinned with bake-hardened steel for enhanced impact resistance, and the body-side mouldings have the Grand Cherokee name integrated for a high quality look and feel.

Interior Design is both elegant and functional
The latest Jeep Grand Cherokee takes capability and refinement to new levels, proving there is no reason why a hugely capable off-road vehicle can't also be immensely comfortable and polished. An inviting interior awaits occupants with rich leather fittings, a dark colour scheme, new instrument panel treatment, new door trims and up-market interior finishes.

The seats are beautifully crafted with contours that are precise, firm and ergonomic, featuring a new robust structure. They are purpose-built and designed for long-distance comfort with trim styles different for each model.
In the cargo area, versatility and storage reign. A reversible load floor panel is carpeted on one side and offers easy-to-clean plastic on the other. The plastic side includes a large shallow tray for added utility. The rear seat cushion and backrest are split 60/40 and fold almost fully flat to create a wide uncluttered load area.

3.0 V6 CRD engine
The compact and lightweight 3.0 CRD engine is a 'next-generation' power unit producing class-leading levels of torque and towing ability. Based on the latest Mercedes-Benz technology, this all-new diesel engine offers outstanding performance along with the refinement and efficiency European buyers are looking for.

With Bosch high-pressure fuel injection (1600+ bar), a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder, the new engine meets Euro 4 emissions standards. Maximum power is 160 kW (215 bhp) and peak torque is 510 Nm (376 lb.ft.) from just 1600 rpm.

The choice of materials, design, fuel injection and engine management system reflect the state of the art. Unlike many other diesel engines in this displacement and output class, the 3.0 CRD features an aluminium crankcase with cast-in grey iron cylinder liners, which make a major contribution to weight reduction. As a result, the V-6 weighs a total of only approximately 208 kg (459 lbs., according to DIN).

The engine is an exceptionally smooth running power unit due to features such as low-friction valve gear, larger bearings for the crankshaft, connecting rods made from a new alloy and a counter-rotating balancer shaft between the cylinder banks. A quick-start glow system shortens preheating time to just a moment, so that the diesel is nearly as quick to start as a petrol engine.

In addition, for the diesel engine, a kick-down switch is added to the accelerator pedal. This detent, reached before the full travel of the pedal, is intended to reduce transmission kick-downs during normal driving but still allow for full pedal travel when a quicker acceleration is wanted by the driver.

The W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission offers smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy with the 3.0 CRD engine. This transmission features Electronic Range Select driver interactive shift control for the first time on Jeep Grand Cherokee. The shifter provides fully automatic shifting in the 'Drive' position or the driver can manually select each gear sequentially by moving the shift lever left or right from the 'Drive' position. This gives the driver the control to precisely match any on-road or off-road driving requirement.

SUSPENSION AND STEERING SYSTEM
An independent front suspension provides the driver with a greater sense of precision and control, more precise steering, and reduces head toss. Front suspension wheel travel is increased by more than 10 percent over the previous generation vehicle, and a tight turning diameter of 11.2 m (36.7 ft.) provides for even more nimble handling. The five-link rear suspension geometry, including a track bar, also offers lateral stiffness to match that of the front suspension for optimum handling.

Jeep Grand Cherokee also features an Electronic Rollover Mitigation (ERM) system that anticipates critical situations for the vehicle that may lead to a rollover condition. This system observes and monitors the driver input, vehicle roll attitude and lateral force, while estimating the potential for a rollover situation. The electronic rollover mitigation system reduces engine torque and applies a short burst of full braking to the appropriate wheel to stabilise the vehicle.

Trailer Sway Control is optional on all Grand Cherokee models. This system is an additional part of ESP that reduces trailer sway and provides improved trailer stability and increased towing safety.

Scion Hako Coupe Concept, 2008

Scion Hako Coupe Concept, 2008

 

 

The Scion's Hako Coupe Concept embodies a distinct global perspective on today's youth. This type of forward thinking complements the Scion philosophy of intently listening to our customers and being willing to take risks to help us see where our brand should be. We took the xB's iconic boxy shape and explored something more vivacious, yet just as emotionally appealing. This concept is the sporty version of a box."

Tokyo Design developed the Scion Hako Coupe with classic American coupes in mind. The car's geometric profile conveys a powerful stance in a compact and bold package. Its trapezoidal LED headlights lie parallel with a large and aggressive, rectangular upper grille. The lower rectangular grille anchors the front fascia and continues to communicate the Hako's aggressive attitude. Round fog lights, symmetrically placed high on the front bumper, have integrated turn signals.

The Hako's silhouette is accentuated by slim, race-car-inspired side mirrors that also feature integrated turn signals. Powerful, flared fenders add dimension and contrast to the concept's boxy shape and smooth surface planes. The Hako concept hugs the road with custom 18-inch deep dish five-spoke wheels and tires with a "Scion" custom tread.

The Scion Hako Coupe features a vertical windshield as the concept sits upright and ready to attack the road. A high linear beltline along with a blackened and chopped greenhouse seamlessly wrap around the rear to provide a mysterious profile. As an example of potential personalization, the concept is equipped with a flat, panorama roof that features a random, barcode-like pattern that can be seen on the exterior and from the interior.

The rear features LED taillights that echo the shape of the headlights. To complete the package, the rear bumper has an integrated fog and back up light on the left and exhaust on the right.

Inside, the Hako is accented with orange and metallic detailing that exudes a modern environment with entertainment possibilities. The front and rear seats are covered with urethane and rubber-like upholstery for easy cleaning. The contemporary front bucket seats flow to the floor and incorporate a geometric design on the seatback. The seats are separated by a center console that features a large storage crevice for storing magazines, cell phones, and other small items. Two cockpit-like rear seats also share a storage crevice.

The orange driver's seat has a gaming theme. Instrumentation and warning lights cascade from the art inspired instrument panel to the steering wheel. The shifter, located on the center console, resembles a large joystick. On the steering wheel is a simple button to start the engine and a track-ball type control for the Hako's entertainment system located on the passenger dash. The entertainment system consists of two video monitor screens mounted on the dash for radio, video, and music capabilities. Users can upload their videos and music through a Bluetooth® connection. The front passenger controls the system using a large rollerball mounted on the center of the dash. A black seat differentiates the front passenger area.

The video monitors located on each door and on each side of the rear seating area project distorted fish-eye images from orange filtered cameras mounted beneath the A-pillars. While the vehicle is parked the driver and passenger can edit the scenes captured by the cameras to show their friends where they have been and perhaps even post the clip online for others to see.

Acura TSX, 2007

Acura TSX, 2007

 

 

The Acura TSX is one of the hottest luxury sedans on the road today, setting sales records month after month since its introduction and winning over enthusiasts customers and automotive press with its blend of outstanding performance, nimble handling and sporty styling. The TSX continues to distance itself from the competition by offering class-leading technology and the latest standard safety features, including a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) new for 2007 model year.

The 2007 TSX is equipped with a 2.4 liter DOHC i-VTEC(TM) 4-cylinder engine, generating 205 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque*, giving the TSX engine overall performance comparable to many 6-cylinder powerplants. The i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control system delivers enhanced performance across a broad power band, superior fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions. A direct ignition system with knock control helps optimize power and fuel efficiency by ensuring a properly timed spark at all engine speeds.

The TSX engine is equipped with a drive-by-wire throttle control system that eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and the engine, which continuously adjusts the sensitivity of the accelerator pedal to match current driving conditions. It also incorporates throttle control into the car's Vehicle Stability Assist(R) (VSA(R)) system, the vehicle's cruise control function and modulates the throttle to help make automatic transmission shifts even smoother.

Platinum-tipped spark plugs and a self-adjusting cam chain help the TSX run for 100,000 miles or more before requiring a major scheduled tune-up.

Since many performance enthusiasts prefer shifting gears, the TSX comes with either a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission or a compact 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission as standard equipment. The lightweight 6-speed gearbox features short shift throws and multi-cone synchronizers on all gears for quick, light shifting action. The transmission case is made from magnesium alloy, a material typically reserved for racing applications. This case weighs 6.6 pounds less than a comparable aluminum unit and is extremely rigid to damp out noise and vibration.

Along with its impressive 205 horsepower output, the TSX with manual transmission delivers 22 mpg city/30mpg highway, while the TSX with automatic transmission delivers 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway. Air-assisted fuel injectors, an underfloor catalyzer and a high-flow, low-heat mass exhaust manifold help the TSX achieve EPA Tier 2-Bin 5,Carb Low Emission Vehicle-2 (LEV-2) emissions status.

To complement its high-adrenaline powertrain with sports car-like handling, the TSX features an extremely rigid unit body structure and a race-bred, 4-wheel-independent double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. The suspension is track-tuned to reduce lift, dive and body roll and boasts gas-pressurized shock absorbers and large front and rear stabilizer bars. A quick-ratio, variable power assist rack-and-pinion steering system provides outstanding feel and responsiveness and features an anti-kickback valve for reduced kickback on rough roads.

Handling is further enhanced by a Vehicle Stability Assist(R) (VSA(R)) that works in concert with the braking and drive-by-wire throttle systems to provide enhanced control during acceleration, braking and cornering. This 4-channel system also orchestrates the throttle and each of the vehicle's four disc brakes to seamlessly integrate traction control, anti-lock braking and stability enhancement for increased driver control. The electronically controlled Brake Assist feature helps the driver apply full brake pressure during accident avoidance situations.

To provide stability and offer superb stopping power, the TSX is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel ABS, 17-inch alloy wheels and P215/50R17 Michelin all-season high-performance tires.

The body of the TSX offers crisp lines and dynamic curves. In front, styling cues include a signature 5-sided Acura grille, angular side markers and bumper-integrated fog lamps. In the rear, the taillights slope to meet a short, high trunk lid, which terminates sharply to help air separate cleanly off the back of the car at top speeds. Stylish nine-spoke alloy wheels finish the TSX's sporty appearance.

The TSX is available in nine exterior colors: Premium White Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Carbon Gray Pearl, Nighthawk Black Pearl, Artic Blue Pearl, Royal Blue Pearl, Glacier Blue Metallic, Deep Green Pearl, and Milano Red.

The five-passenger interior of the TSX is sporty yet refined with modern LED- illuminated instrumentation and intuitive controls. Like the RL and TL sedans, the TSX comes equipped with standard Bluetooth(R) enabled hands-free phone system. The system, called HandsFreeLink(TM), enables a Bluetooth(R) wireless interface with mobile phones allowing calls to be made and received using the TSX's voice recognition and audio interfaces. To make a call, drivers push the steering wheel-mounted HandsFreeLink(TM) button, which connects their phone to the system. The HandsFreeLink(TM) system can be programmed to accept up to six different phones and up to 50 numbers may be stored in the system's phone book.

The comprehensively equipped TSX features deeply bolstered, perforated leather seating surfaces, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power moonroof, power windows and door locks and keyless entry. The leather-wrapped three-spoke sport steering wheel provides a sporty feel, features wheel-mounted audio and cruise control as well as voice recognition and HandFreeLink switches.

The TSX comes equipped with a 360-watt Acura Premium Sound System with standard XM(R) Satellite Radio and an auxiliary jack located in the center console for playing MP3 and other digital music devices. The standard 8-way power adjustable driver's seat features two-position memory, so when the driver enters the car with the key fob, the TSX automatically adjusts the driver's seat to their preferred position. In addition, tilt and telescopic steering wheel allows the TSX to accommodate a wide range of drivers. A 4-way adjustable power passenger seat increases passenger comfort and convenience.

The only factory option (other than transmission choice) on the TSX is the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition (TM). This easy to use navigation system features a menu of 560 voice commands, an 8-inch display, and a comprehensive destination guide with over 7 million points of interest including the Zagat Survey(TM) Restaurant Guide, 3-D graphics for freeway interchanges including on and off-ramps and turn-by-turn voice guidance. In addition, 1.7 million U.S. cities and street names can be accessed through the voice recognition system. The navigation system can be controlled through the steering wheel-mounted voice recognition button or by using the menu on the touch screen.

To ensure proper maintenance intervals and reduce the number of service visits, the TSX features a Maintenance Minder system that automatically monitors the vehicle's unique operating profile and alerts the driver via the Multi-Information Display when certain types of routine service, including oil and filter replacement and tire rotation, are needed.

The TSX is also equipped with standard dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags, and side airbags for the driver and front passenger. The passenger's side airbag uses seven sensors in the seatback and side bolster to determine the height and position of the occupant. If the sensors detect that a child or small-stature adult is leaning into the deployment path of the side airbag, the bag will not deploy.

To further enhance safety, side curtain airbags help protect vehicle occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a significant side impact. Additionally, the 2007 TSX is now equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Like all Acura models, the TSX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty, and a 6-year / 70,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service, and trip routing.

Isuzu Pickup, 2008

Isuzu Pickup, 2008

 

 

 

 

 

The Isuzu Pickups made their debut in 2006, and the crew cab model was quickly nominated as "Truck of the Year" by two different magazines, "Truck of Texas" and "Four Wheeler of the Year." IntelliChoice named the 2006 models a "Smart Choice" in ten different ownership-cost categories, and singled out the 2006 i-280 Extended Cab S as the "Top Winner" in its class for lowest repair costs.

For 2007, the i-280 Extended Cab 4x2 becomes the i-290, and the i-350 Crew Cab 4x4 is renamed the i-370. Trim levels remain unchanged: the i-290 is available in base S trim, with Preferred Equipment, LS and Luxury packages optional, and the i-370 is available in LS or optional Limited trim. Both vehicles get larger, more powerful engines. The changes for the 2007 model year:

    * 2.9-liter inline four-cylinder engine replaces 2.8-liter, increasing horsepower to 185 hp (vs. 175) and torque to 190 ft.-lbs. (vs. 185)
    * 3.7-liter inline five-cylinder engine replaces 3.5-liter, increasing horsepower to 242 hp (from 220) and torque to 242 ft.-lbs. (vs. 225)
    * Base i-290 S available with automatic transmission as well as manual transmission
    * Tire Pressure Monitoring System added as standard equipment on all models
    * 3.73 rear axle ratio added on manual transmission models (replaces 3.42 rear axle ratio)
    * Towing capacity of manual transmission models increases from 1,700 to 2,100 lbs.
    * Pacific Blue exterior color added
    * Deep Crimson Metallic replaces Red Rock Metallic exterior color
    * Bering Blue Metallic replaces Adriatic Blue Metallic exterior color
    * Ebony interior trim replaces Very Dark Pewter (LS, Luxury and Limited)
    * Chrome accents added to HVAC lever, gauges, and speaker surrounds (LS, Luxury and Limited)
    * Chrome accents to be added mid-year to interior door handles and locks (LS, Luxury and Limited
    * Map lights deleted from inside rear view mirror

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-door, 2012

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-door, 2012

 

 

The exciting 5-Door version of the all-new Land Rover Range Rover Evoque makes its global public debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show on November 17, 2010.

With its stylish and sporting appearance, enhanced by extra practicality and greater family appeal, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door joins the stunning coupé model to create a highly desirable line-up that will transform the premium compact SUV segment.
Like the coupé, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door remains faithful to the spirit of the groundbreaking Land Rover LRX concept car, offering an innovative new interpretation of the original cross-coupé design.
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door also stays true to the core values of the Range Rover brand, providing premium levels of craftsmanship, luxury, performance and renowned Land Rover all-terrain capability, but in a more compact package.

Commitment to sustainability
With the same compact footprint and advanced technologies as the coupé model, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door reinforces Land Rover's commitment to environmental sustainability. The Evoque is positioned as the smallest, lightest, most fuel-efficient Range Rover ever.

Coupé style and 5-Door versatility
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door offers an exciting new interpretation of the LRX concept car design, combining the dramatic stance and dynamic appeal of the original cross-coupé with the enhanced functionality offered by a 5-Door format.

Interior quality and versatility
The cabin of the Range Rover Evoque is lavishly appointed with premium quality materials and an elegance befitting of a Range Rover interior.
Customers can specify soft, premium leather and beautifully tailored, twin-needle stitching providing a luxurious finish to almost every surface of the instrument panel, doors and seats.

Measuring 30mm taller than the coupé model, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door adds further space and versatility to the luxurious cabin. Rear seat passengers benefit from over 50mm more shoulder room, along with generous headroom which compares very favourably to traditional sporting saloons.

A full-sized glass panoramic roof enhances the sensation of space and comfort by flooding the interior with natural light, and offers even greater headroom for all occupants.
For growing families, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door provides the versatility and luggage space of a compact station wagon.

Sporting dynamics
On the open road, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door offers a polished driving experience that combines dynamic and sporty handling with responsive, effortless performance and refinement.

Capable off-road
Drivers who take their Range Rover Evoque off-road will be reassured to know that, in addition to extremely generous ground clearance, the car has better breakover and departure angles than other compact SUVs.
The Evoque will be the first Range Rover to offer customers a choice between a full-time four-wheel-drive system, which delivers outstanding performance and traction on all surfaces, and a low carbon, front-wheel-drive option for further enhanced fuel economy.

Powertrains
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door shares its turbocharged powertrain line-up with the Coupé model. The state-of-the-art diesel and petrol engines offer smooth and responsive performance, blending four-cylinder efficiency with six-cylinder refinement and power.

Innovation
Like the coupé model, the Evoque 5-Door benefits from the same high-end innovative technologies as the larger Range Rovers. An intuitive control system and touch-screen display combines a stylish, uncluttered layout, state-of-the-art functionality with class-leading ease of use.

The Evoque is the first Range Rover to offer breathtaking new sound systems developed in partnership with the high-end audio specialist Meridian. The premium Meridian offering is an 825W, 17-speaker system that delivers the ultimate in surround-sound performance.

Other features available to Range Rover Evoque customers include:
    * Park Assist for automated parallel parking
    * Blind Spot Monitoring system
    * Surround Camera System with five digital cameras, including a reversing system
    * Full dual-zone automatic climate control, featuring a Park Heater timer facility
    * Hard drive navigation system
    * DAB/FM/AM/Sirius tuners, with hard drive virtual 10xCD multiplayer
    * Digital and Satellite TV, and DVD playback
    * Rear seat entertainment package, with 8-inch video screens, digital wireless headphones and touch screen remote control
    * Keyless entry system and powered tailgate
    * Adaptive headlamps with Automatic High Beam Assist
    * Heated windscreen, front seats and steering wheel

Three design themes
The Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-Door follows the coupé model by offering customers the choice of three main vehicle design themes, each with its own distinctive character, exterior treatment and carefully co-ordinated interior package.