Auction: Jaguar XJ220S headed

The XJ220S model that is up for auction is chassis number 784 and it has been with the same owner for the last eight years.

To create the XJ220S, TWR removed all the aluminum bodywork (except the doors) and replaced it with carbon fiber, adding a front splitter, rear wing and wider side sills in the process.

It originally came with a V6 power unit that produced 680hp (689PS/507kW) and 712Nm (526 lb-ft) of torque, but a new titanium exhaust system by TWR and additional engine updates has raised it to approximately 700 hp (709PS/521kW).

The leather interior has also been refurbished and Infiniti projector headlights have been added. Also refurbished are the car�s magnesium alloy wheels, although all-told, the current owner only notched up just 1,200 miles since he took custodianship of it.


   

Press Release

Lot 127 - 1993 Jaguar XJ220S Coupe

Estimate:
$225,000-$300,000 US
Est. 700 bhp, 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, five-speed manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 104"

• One of only six built
• Recent major mechanical overhaul and restoration
• Twin-turbocharged, 700-horsepower engine
• Jaguar style and performance at its pinnacle

The original Jaguar XJ220 was introduced in the late 1980s as a concept; response was so strong that Jaguar enlisted Tom Walkinshaw Racing to conduct a feasibility study to determine if a production series would be possible. Although production was promised to be limited to just 350 units, Jaguar took deposits for 1,500 cars, which was then pared back to the originally promised limit.

The standard XJ220 had a body built of aluminum. TWR modified nine of these cars; three examples were transformed into the XJ220C to compete in GT racing, while the other six were designated as XJ220S. The XJ220S model, like this example, was comprised of five "standard" units and one additional "modified" version. They were produced as road-going cars built to comply with homologation requirements.

The Walkinshaw-built Jaguars were stripped of their aluminum body, save for the door skins. The original panels were replaced with carbon fiber and the XJ220Ss were also given a front splitter, wider sills and an adjustable rear spoiler. The additional body kit produced an even more menacing stance than that of the production XJ220. The carbon-fiber panels helped reduce the curb weight to a lithe 2,379 pounds, impressive for an 18-foot long Jaguar. The twin-turbo V-6 powerplant was overhauled to produce a whopping 680 horsepower and over 526 foot-pounds of torque.

The current owner of chassis number 784 has retained it for the last eight years. Over that period a great deal of time, effort and money have been expended to add substantial performance and value to this already impressive supercar. The owner opted to have a proper titanium exhaust system by Tom Walkinshaw Racing installed at a cost of nearly $20,000. An expert from Spain was flown in to install the exhaust as well as perform a major service on the engine. This included replacement of all belts, injector cleaning as well as recalibrating and updating of the computer software. The result of this work is an outstanding output of approximately 700 horsepower. The brakes and clutch have also been serviced.

The XJ220S was painstakingly repainted to match the Lamborghini color of Reventon Gray, making this supercar even more intimidating in a very contemporary color. Furthermore the leather interior was completely refurbished, and Infiniti projector headlights were also added. The original magnesium wheels were also refurbished and fitted with brand new tires. Since the early 2000s the owner has added about 1,200 miles to the odometer and only precious few since the cosmetic and mechanical overhaul completed this past year. It has been shown and won accolades at SEMA and is followed by a loyal group of devotees. Most other examples of the rare XJ220S reside in museums or in vast car collections and as a result have attained a mythical status. These special Jaguars deliver style and performance that is truly on par with more contemporary supercars yet arguably remains the most undervalued member of the species.

Ford EcoSport compact SUV?Video?

Ford has released an all-new EcoSport Compact SUV,which will debut in New Delhi.

The EcoSport takes Ford's 'Kinetic' design theme a step forward and accentuates key features that have defined the car's lines, the front gets an even more aggressive high-mounted trapezoidal grille between slit-eyed LED headlamps.

The big news is that it�s powered by Ford�s new 1.0-liter turbo three-cylinder engine that�s supposed to eventually replace all 1.6-liter normally aspirated units. This new engine will have 120 hp and will be mated to a five-speed manual in India.

Ford will also offer the EcoSport with a 1.5 litre petrol four-cylinder engine in some markets, producing 80kW and 140Nm of torque and using 5.9 l/100km of fuel, along with a 1.5 litre diesel that delivers 66kW and 204Nm, using 4.3 l/100km of fuel.




Press Release

Ford Previews All-New EcoSport at New Delhi Auto Expo As New Product Momentum in Asia Continues to Build

Ford's global product family grows with a new compact SUV, Ford EcoSport

• New EcoSport will arrive with the most advanced level of design, quality and sustainability in its class to attract new generations of consumers

• Unveiled by Ford Motor Company President and CEO Alan Mulally, the global compact SUV is the second of eight new vehicles that Ford plans to bring to India by mid-decade

• The vehicle will expand Ford's presence in Brazil, India, ASEAN markets and others to be announced at a later time, with world-class technology and quality, sharing the new B-class platform which is expected to sell more than 2 million units by mid-decade

Expanding its relentless push into the heart of Asia's car market, Ford introduces the all-new Ford EcoSport at Auto Expo 2012 this week. The new compact SUV will further augment Ford's offering in India, as well as in many other markets across the globe.

Modern and innovative, the all-new Ford EcoSport was designed to combine best-in-class design, technology, quality and safety aimed at attracting a new generation of consumers in different global markets.

Created as the latest One Ford global product, the EcoSport will be a key model in expanding Ford's presence in major worldwide growth markets, including India, Brazil and the ASEAN markets. It has been developed in South America at one of Ford's eight global product development centres in conjunction with teams from Asia, Europe and North America to meet the needs of markets across the globe.

"The all-new Ford EcoSport reflects our commitment to serve our customers with the cars and trucks they truly want and value," said Alan Mulally, president and CEO, Ford Motor Company. "Our engineering team used their years of EcoSport experience to make every aspect of the next-generation EcoSport even stronger."

The all-new Ford EcoSport exemplifies the DNA of Ford global vehicles and its versatility broadens the horizons of mobility and use. Its genuine SUV confidence starts in the stability of the chassis, reinforced by the body's robust build, high torsional stiffness and high levels of protection for its occupants. Yet, its innovative design reduces the weight and ensures good fuel efficiency.

Contemporary new EcoSport shape
The all-new EcoSport's contemporary shape conveys confidence while combining refinement and an adventurous spirit in an intelligent and modern package. It sports key SUV cues such as the confident stance, command driving position and signature spare wheel mounted on a swing-gate at the rear of the vehicle.

The EcoSport's hardy character and strong stance give it the appearance of a larger vehicle, while retaining the agility and practicality of a compact car. It features high ground clearance and integrated lower body cladding for robustness.

The back of the vehicle is marked by a large rear window which wraps around to the sides and oblique shaped taillights. This characteristic defines the striking personality of the EcoSport family: a sporty and casual car, for consumers who want to stand out and who want more from life, but in an intelligent and sustainable way.

New global products for growth markets
Previewing the vehicle design first at the 11th Annual Auto Expo in New Delhi gives Ford the opportunity to introduce EcoSport to consumers in one of the world's biggest automotive growth markets ahead of its future global rollouts.

The new EcoSport was developed on Ford's new global B-segment platform, which will be the basis for an array of new small-car products from Ford in the coming years. By mid-decade, the new Ford B-platform family of vehicles will represent more than 2 million units of annual production as compact cars continue to drive global growth.

The EcoSport has been a market phenomenon since it was launched in South America in 2003 as the region's first affordable SUV, selling 700,000 vehicles in nine years. It created a new segment and popularized features that many consumers had wanted.

The EcoSport will be produced at ultra-modern, flexible assembly plants in Brazil, India, and other markets to be announced at a later time. The EcoSport as a global vehicle is an example of the technical ability of Ford's global engineering and high level of integration of the design and engineering centres around the world.

The project was led by Ford's Development Center in Cama�ari, Brazil, one of the most specialized in the development of compact cars. The team leveraged Ford engineering strength and SUV expertise from around the world to create the all-new EcoSport.

"The new EcoSport is a significant milestone for our global product development process," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "It proves that great small-car models for growth markets can be created in growth markets, using One Ford to leverage our global design and engineering expertise."

EcoSport's development was shaped by market research in all of the regions where it will be sold. This helped create a unique vehicle, focused on the needs and desires of consumers. It will eventually be sold in nearly 100 markets worldwide.

Fuelling expansion in Asia and beyond
The all-new EcoSport is a significant linchpin in Ford's aggressive global plan to achieve its goal of increasing worldwide sales by nearly 50 percent by mid-decade to 8 million vehicles a year. Of that figure, 60 to 70 percent is expected to come from the Asia Pacific and Africa region.

"We've promised to bring more than 50 new vehicles and powertrains to Asia Pacific and Africa by mid-decade and the all-new EcoSport continues to deliver on that pledge," said Joe Hinrichs, president, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa. "Endowed with traits that customers in markets like India will want and value, this exciting compact SUV will define a new segment in the small car market."

The EcoSport is the second of eight products slated to be launched in India by mid-decade and will bring about further momentum in a business transformation that was kick started by the Ford Figo and strengthened by the new Ford Fiesta sedan. Ford India's shift from niche automaker to volume player is supported by several new investments in the country.

Ford recently broke ground in Sanand, Gujarat as part of an investment of approximately USD 1 billion to build new vehicle manufacturing and engine plants. Ford also announced earlier an investment of USD 72 million by this year (2012) to expand its already operating powertrain facility in Chennai. Ford's total investment in India to date is approximately USD 2 billion.

The new EcoSport will be produced in the integrated Chennai manufacturing facility which has been transformed with an annual production capacity of 200,000 units and is now positioned as a Ford regional centre of excellence for compact-car engineering and production. Ford EcoSport models will be also produced at the plant for export to international markets.

"Following the success of the game-changing Ford Figo and �tech-tastic' Fiesta sedan, the all-new Ford EcoSport will certainly broaden our showroom offering in India, keeping in step with the aspirations of our customers," said Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India. "With its tremendous value story, we're confident this compact SUV will greatly bolster our presence in the competitive Indian market."

Strengths Under EcoSport's New Shape
Designed to offer balanced performance on paved roads as well as off-road terrain, the all-new Ford EcoSport is ideal for the urban consumer who wants the versatility to escape the city.

Developed to world-class product standards via the Ford global product development system, the next-generation model delivers on key traits customers all around the world demand:

Smart - New technology and features from Ford will be central to the all-new Ford EcoSport ownership experience. It will offer innovative equipment normally not found in this class of vehicle.

Green - Fuel efficiency was a key factor in the development process, as Ford targets the EcoSport to deliver leading fuel economy in its segment.

Safe - The all-new Ford EcoSport has been engineered to meet the most demanding safety standards in the various markets where it will be sold. Its weight-optimized, highly resistant body, developed with advanced software and design tools, combines zones aimed to absorb the forces of impact with an extremely rigid cell to protect its occupants.

Quality - The all-new Ford EcoSport will deliver impressive levels of quality and craftsmanship, reflecting its new world-class design and engineering story, and has endured rigorous developmental testing around the globe. Low maintenance costs and great durability were also key objectives in the development process.

All-New, Fuel-Efficient 1.0-litre Ford EcoBoost Engine for India to Debut in All-New Ford EcoSport

• All-new engine for the Indian market will debut in the all-new Ford EcoSport - offering the performance of a conventional 1.6-litre engine with less than 140g/km CO2 emissions

• Ford is introducing its global EcoBoost powertrain technology for the first time in India with the three-cylinder EcoBoost engine

• This newest and smallest member of the global family of EcoBoost engines features advanced turbocharging technology, direct injection, improved twin variable camshaft design and intelligent ancillaries to deliver performance that belies its small size

Ford is bringing its global EcoBoost powertrain technology to India for the first time in the form of its newest and smallest-ever EcoBoost engine. With only three cylinders and 1.0 litre of displacement, the latest EcoBoost engine will provide fuel-efficient power for the all-new Ford EcoSport.

Despite its small capacity and proportions, the engine delivers power and performance that will rival a traditional 1.6-litre petrol engine while emitting less than 140g/km CO2. It will have 120 PS of power and be mated to a five-speed manual transmission, giving the Ford EcoSport a footprint that is small enough for urban driving yet robust enough for a trip out of the city.

The new 1.0-litre is the latest addition to Ford's global family of EcoBoost engines, which currently range in capacity from 1.6 to 3.5 litres. Downsized EcoBoost engines feature turbocharging, direct injection and other technologies and replace larger engines with no loss of performance and with lower fuel consumption.

Ultimately, this all-new engine will be made available in Ford models in China, Europe, North America and other regions.

"The capable EcoSport is a perfect showcase for the advanced small-displacement petrol engine, demonstrating the strength and breadth of Ford's development and engineering capabilities," said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Global Powertrain Engineering.

"The 1.0-litre EcoBoost delivers great low-speed responsiveness, power, torque and smoothness. To produce an engine with such impressive performance and fuel economy clearly reflects our commitment to be class-leading in fuel economy around the world."

Compact and responsive
Developed at Ford's Dunton Technical Centre in the U.K., this direct-injected EcoBoost engine features a new compact, high performance turbocharger design. The extremely fast response of the turbocharger and its ability to reach nearly 250,000 rpm results in virtually no turbo lag and peak torque of 170 Nm from 1,300-4,500 rpm.

The all-new EcoBoost engine also features an exhaust manifold cast into the cylinder head, which lowers the temperature of the exhaust gases and in turn enables the engine to run with the optimum fuel-to-air ratio across a wider rev band.

An advanced "split cooling" system reduces fuel consumption by warming the engine more quickly and - unique to the 1.0 engine -cast iron has been selected for the block, reducing the amount of energy needed for warm-up by up to 50 percent compared with aluminium.

Intelligent ancillaries such as a variable air-conditioning compressor and oil pump also reduce demand on the engine - improving economy and emissions - while special coatings for engine components and intricate development of engine geometry result in minimal frictional losses.

Like its larger-capacity siblings, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine will use twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) to further improve performance and economy. Ford has also employed an all-new camshaft actuator to speed up response times without sacrificing durability.

Smooth and refined
In the all-new 1.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine, the emphasis in development has been on delivering both smooth and refined performance.

Engine refinement is improved thanks to an innovative design that immerses the two main engine drive belts in oil - resulting in quieter and more efficient running but with the durability of a chain. Careful attention has also been paid to mitigating the natural vibrations of the three-cylinder design.

Rather than employ the traditional method of adding energy-draining balancer shafts, Ford engineers have deliberately "unbalanced" the flywheel and pulley to offset the engine configuration. Ford believes these innovations combined with optimised engine mounts will deliver a truly refined performance feel perfected during 720,000 kilometres of tests - including 360,000 kilometres of durability trials and 10,000 kilometres of environmental testing.

"Fitted with a long list of innovative technologies, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost is one of the most technically advanced and efficient engines Ford has ever designed and produced," said Bakaj. "This new engine demonstrates Ford's laser focus on improving fuel economy without compromising performance. It will be an engine that not only surprises and delights our customers but also offers them great value in the lower cost of ownership."

Detroit Debut: 2013 Porsche 911 Cabriolet?Video?

Porsche has releases the new 911 Cabriolet,which will debut at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show next week.

The Carrera Cabriolet is powered by a 3.4-liter flat-six engine with 350 hp, while the Carrera S Cabriolet features a larger 3.8-liter flat-six with 400 hp. Both engines are mated to a standard seven-speed manual transmission and a seven-speed dual-clutch PDK being available as an option.

The 2013 model will be available as the Carrera Cabriolet and the Carrera S Cabriolet starting at �100,532 and �114,931 in Germany and MSRP $93,700 and $108,000 in the U.S., respectively.




Press Release

Porsche unveils the 911 Cabrio to the public for the first time in Detroit

US deliveries in 2011 increase by 15 per cent to 29,023 vehicles

Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is getting 2012 underway with a world premiere: The sports car manufacturer is unveiling the Cabrio version of the new 911 for the first time at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit (9 - 22 January). As one of the world's largest auto shows, the Detroit Motor Show traditionally ushers in the new automotive year. The show in the automotive capital is regarded as an important international marketplace and forum for trends and opinions that is of particular significance for the North American market.

"The USA is and remains an important market for Porsche with good growth prospects," said Bernhard Maier, Porsche AG Board of Management Member for Sales and Marketing. "Detroit was deliberately chosen for the world premiere of the new 911 Cabrio because the USA is far and away our largest 911 Cabrio market." The Coup� variant of the sports car classic will be available in the USA starting in February 2012 with the Cabriolet following a few months later, providing a fresh impetus.

In 2011, Porsche's dealers in the USA sold 29,023 Cayennes, Panameras, 911s, Boxsters and Caymans to US customers. That was 15 per cent more than in the previous year. The most successful model in 2011 was the Cayenne with 12,978 units (+55.6%). Shortly before the change of model, Porsche even managed to boost 911 sales by 4.9 per cent to 6,016 vehicles. In the New Year 2012, the Zuffenhausen company anticipates selling more than 30,000 vehicles in the United States.

To achieve this, the sports car manufacturer is fielding numerous new models in the United States: the premiere of the new 911 will be followed by the 430 hp Panamera GTS in spring. This will subsequently be followed by the Cayenne Diesel as Porsche's first compression-ignition car in the USA. The compact Cajun off-road vehicle will also be celebrating its debut in 2013.

"By building a new headquarters in Atlanta in the US State of Georgia we are underlining our growth ambitions in the region," said Bernhard Maier. The complex, adjacent to the new terminal of Atlanta's international airport, will comprise not just modern, energy-efficient offices for approximately 400 employees but also the technical service department as well as a training centre and circuit where customers can test the Porsche vehicles' outstanding driving characteristics. The new US headquarters, which will for the first time centralise all administrative, training and sales functions and financial services, is scheduled for completion in the second half of 2013. Porsche Cars North America has been based in Atlanta for the past 13 years. Porsche also plans to build an additional customer test facility in Carson in California, between the airports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Porsche is investing more than 100 million US dollars in the Atlanta head office and test facility in Carson.

2012 Renault Koleos Bose

Renault has releases the 2012 Koleos Bose special edition. According to the carmaker, the Renault Koleos Bose Special Edition, is coming with Bose side badging, aluminum colored door mirror housings, Bose sound system with seven loud speakers and a subwoofer, CD player with MP3 playback, a 60/40 split rear bench seat without the Easy Estate system, the Bose badge aluminum sills and some visible grey stitching.

Interior styling - 60/40-split rear bench seat without �Easy Estate� system(- �Bose�-badged aluminium sills(- Specific Black Lacquer interior trim details(- Mixed black fabric upholstery with visible grey stitching

Power comes from a 2.0-liter dCi diesel engine with 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque. It can be paired to a six-speed manual with front-wheel drive or six-speed manual with all-wheel drive or six-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive.

Prices for New Renault Koleos Bose� Edition start from �29,400 in France. Order books open in January 2012.




Press Release

Koleos takes front stage once again with the release of a new 'Bose� Edition' version

• Early 2012 will see the New Renault Koleos range extended with the introduction of a limited edition Bose� Edition version.
• In addition to a Bose� audio system that has been tailor-engineered to match the properties of Koleos' cabin, the new version will feature specific exterior styling and interior appointments.
• The Bose� Edition version of the Phase 1 Koleos proved extremely successful, accounting for almost 30 percent of the model's sales in 2011 across Europe.
• Prices for New Renault Koleos Bose� Edition start from �29,400 in France. Order books open in January 2012.

Available in some 20 countries worldwide, the initial Bose� Edition limited edition version of the model accounted for almost 30 percent of Phase 1 Koleos' sales across Europe in 2011. This popularity did not only concern Koleos, however, since M�gane and Laguna have both also benefited from the innovative partnership Renault enjoys with Bose�.

To build on this success, this limited edition has been carried over to New Renault Koleos and is poised to appear in Renault's French showrooms next March. Its return is seen as an opportunity to pursue the positive dynamic which followed the launch of New Koleos in September.

New Renault Koleos Bose� Edition is positioned as an attractive core-range version, which combines the refined listening pleasure delivered by Bose� Premium sound, with modern, distinctive styling. Based on the Carminat equipment level, it is powered by the reliable and highly efficient 2.0 dCi 150 engine which can be mated to one of three types of transmission: six-speed manual/front-wheel drive, six-speed manual/4x4 or six-speed automatic/4x4.

Koleos Bose� Edition's appeal has been further enhanced thanks to the incorporation of a number of specific styling details, including:

- aluminium-coloured door mirror housings,
- extra-tinted rear glass,
- coloured 17-inch alloy wheels,
- and Black Lacquer interior trim details, plus mixed black fabric upholstery.

imited edition Koleos Bose� Edition = Carminat equipment level, plus:
(for a description of the Carminat equipment level, see the 'French Range' press release dated July 5, 2011)

Exterior styling

- "Bose" side badging
- Aluminium-coloured door mirror housings
- Extra-tinted rear glass

Equipment

- Bose� Sound System with seven loudspeakers and woofer, CD player with MP3 playback
- Plug&Music digital connectivity (USB + jack)

Interior styling

- 60/40-split rear bench seat without "Easy Estate" system
- "Bose"-badged aluminium sills
- Specific Black Lacquer interior trim details
- Mixed black fabric upholstery with visible grey stitching

Chief options available for the limited edition Koleos Bose� Edition

- 18-inch "Australe" aluminium alloy wheels: �500
- European mapping for Carminat TomTom navigation: �120

Available body colours

Glacier White / Perle White / Mars Grey / Min�ral Beige / Metallic Black

Citroen C3 Picasso Code Special Edition

French carmaker Citroen has releases the C3 Picasso Code for the UK market

The car is based on the most successful model of the range, the HDi 90 manual VTR+ version and comes with new equipment that complements the already generous list of standard features.,

The C3 Picasso Code Special Edition for the UK is available in four exterior colors, the Polar White, the Cherry red, the Belle Ile Blue and the Thorium Grey. The special edition of the French car is coming with curtain airbags, cruise control, air conditioning, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, chrome lower bumper inserts, black door handles with chrome inserts, longitudinal roof bars, black painted bumpers and a fresh set of 17 inch wheels.

Interior changes are limited to unique floor mats, but the model is nicely equipped with air conditioning, cruise control and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Citroen C3 Picasso Code Special Edition is coming with a 1.6 liter diesel engine, developing 90 horsepower and emitting 120 g/km of CO, with an estimated 61.4 mpg fuel consumption, for a price of 15.695 GBP.




Press Release

INTRODUCING CITRO�N'S NEW C3 PICASSO CODE SPECIAL EDITION

Citro�n has introduced a stylish new special edition into its award-winning C3 Picasso range - C3 Picasso Code.

The C3 Picasso Code, which replaces the previous Blackcherry special edition, is based on the best-selling HDi 90 manual VTR+ version, with added equipment.

Complementing a generous specification that already includes air conditioning, a Connecting Box (Bluetooth� system with USB socket), curtain airbags and cruise control with speed limiter, the C3 Picasso Code gains a �Look Pack' that features:

• Polar White or Cherry Red 17" �Clover' alloy wheels (depending on body colour)
• Chrome lower bumper inserts
• Shiny black painted door handles with chrome inserts
• Obsidian Black painted front & rear bumpers
• Obsidian Black door mirrors with shiny black surround & base plate
• Longitudinal roof bars
• Shiny black vent surrounds
• Carpet mats

There are four body colours to choose from - Polar White, Cherry Red, Belle Ile Blue and Thorium Grey. The Polar White wheels are available with the Belle Ile Blue or Cherry Red body colours and add Polar White painted side rubbing strips and a white rear number plate surround with chrome detailing. The Cherry Red alloy wheels are available with the Polar White or Thorium Grey body colours and bring Cherry Red painted side rubbing strips and a Cherry Red number plate surround with a chrome insert.

The new model's refined and efficient diesel HDi 90 powerplant returns an impressive 61.4mpg on the combined cycle and is eligible for free VED in the first year thanks to its sub-120g/km CO2 emissions.

The C3 Picasso Code special edition is �on sale' now priced from �15,695, which is just �300 more than the HDi 90 manual VTR+ version on which it is based.