LA Debut:2014 Acura RLX

2014 Acura RLX will debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show on November 28 . The RLX Concept first debuted at the New York Auto Show this past April.

The new Acura RLX will come with a range of new technologies unique to Acura, including the Precision All Wheel Steer system, the next-generation AcuraLink Communication System, Lane Keep Assist System, Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking System and the all-new Jewel Eye LED headlamps.

The standard powertrain will be a new direct-injected 3.5-liter V-6 engine delivering a reasonable 310 horsepower and powering the front wheels only. It's not clear when the hybrid option will be offered.

The interior of the RLX features an 8-inch display screen and a seven-inch touch screen that uses the latest AcuraLink system with features such as stolen vehicle tracking.



Press Release

Acura to Debut Flagship 2014 RLX Sedan at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show

The production model of the all-new 2014 Acura RLX will debut on November 28, 2012, the first press day of the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, it was announced today. The new Acura flagship sedan will employ an array of new technologies unique to Acura, including the Precision All Wheel SteerTM system, the next-generation AcuraLink� Communication System, and the all-new Jewel EyeTM LED headlamps to deliver an entirely new level of performance, sophistication and comfort.

The front-wheel-drive version of the 2014 RLX will utilize Acura's new Precision All Wheel SteerTM system. This system automatically makes slight adjustments to the relative rear wheel (toe) angles by utilizing electrically controlled actuators to deliver an extraordinary level of cornering control and steering precision. The front-wheel-drive RLX will come equipped with an all-new 3.5-liter direct-injected VTEC� V-6 engine producing 310 horsepower (SAE net).

The RLX will feature the first application of the next-generation AcuraLink�, which incorporates built-in two-way cellular communication to deliver a variety of new convenience features, including airbag deployment notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote locking and unlocking, security alarm notification and concierge service. Acura's exclusive Jewel EyeTM LED headlamps use a dual-stacked array of multiple high-intensity LED lamps, with ultra-reflective optical lenses and high-gloss trim, to provide powerful down-the-road illumination, while simultaneously giving the RLX a distinctive and bright-eyed look in both daytime and nighttime conditions.

The Acura RLX will offer an extensive array of passive and active safety features. These include a Collision Mitigation Braking SystemTM and the first application of Acura's Lane Keep Assist System. In addition, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning will be offered as standard equipment on the RLX. Passive safety features will include front, side and side-curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger, and a driver's knee airbag. The RLX also incorporates the second generation of Acura's Advanced Compatibility EngineeringTM (ACETM) body structure, with reinforced front frame members for further enhanced frontal crash energy management. The RLX is expected to achieve a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA and the new TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS status from IIHS.

Paris Debut: Suzuki S-Cross teaser

Suzuki has unveiling new teaser for the Suzuki S-Cross concept, which will debut at the 2012 Paris motor show on September 27th. The production model, which is set to be launched by the end of 2013, will replace the current SX4 crossover sold in some of the European markets.

The new concept �embodies an �Emotion x Quality x Aerodynamics� design theme�. From the first teaser, we know that this means the five-door S-Cross will blend the looks of the Kizashi saloon with some more rugged styling elements, like a bash plate on the front bumper.

The rear-end image follows a similar preview from August teasing the front-end, which revealed the headlight design, an LED daytime running light strip and a section of the grille, which sits upright and wears a large Suzuki �S� badge.





Press Release

S-CROSS - FURTHER TEASER IMAGE AND WEB INVITATION

The S-CROSS, a concept car heralding a C-segment crossover model from Suzuki will be making its world debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show from 27 September to 14 October*.

Suzuki's crossover concept S-CROSS embodies an "Emotion x Quality x Aerodynamics" design theme, which is typified by distinctive dynamic lines that start on the front bumper, sweep across the doors, and continue to the rear of the body. Design elements which suggest stability and solidity also help create a cutting-edge crossover look.

Further information about the S-CROSS and other Suzuki activities can be obtained at the Suzuki Press Conference, scheduled for 7.30 a.m. on 27 September in Hall 5.2 - Aisle B - Stand 509. http://www.globalsuzuki.com/paris2012-invitation/

*The 2012 Paris Motor Show will be open to the press on 27 and 28 September and then to the general public from 29 September to 14 October.

Paris 2012 Debut: Hyundai i30 three-door

Hyundai announced launch of a new three-door version of its successful i30 hatchback at the 2012 Paris Motor show. The three-door Hyundai i30 joins the five-door hatchback and the wagon to extend Hyundai�s �made for Europe� C-segment range to appeal to even more buyers.

Essentially an Elantra GT three-door for Europe, the new i30 is part of the Korean automaker�s �Made for Europe� C-segment range. Buyers in Europe will be able to select from six different engines, including a 1.6-liter diesel that claims to have the best power-to-efficiency ratio in the segment.

The rakish hatchback has a more angular glasshouse than the five-door hatch and Tourer estate. It has a revised grille, fog lamps, daytime running strips and a reshaped lower bumper.

The i30 three-door will be offered in Europe with a choice of six engines, together with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Hyundai hasn't announced any plans to bring the three-door i30 to the U.S.



Press Release

NEW GENERATION i30 THREE-DOOR TO DEBUT AT 2012 PARIS MOTOR SHOW

• Third member of New Generation i30 family to broaden range's appeal
• Dynamic styling incorporates new front, side and rear design features
• Designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, for Europe

High Wycombe, 14 September 2012 - Ahead of its world debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the New Generation i30 three-door has today been revealed. The third member of the New Generation i30 family, the three-door joins the five-door hatchback and the Tourer to extend the broad appeal of Hyundai's �made for Europe' C-segment range to an even wider audience.

Central to the appeal of the three-door is its distinctive, sporty styling. Incorporating Hyundai's �fluidic sculpture' form language, the new model's sharply-raked beltline, more angular glasshouse silhouette and longer front doors provide it with a more dynamic profile, and the effect is enhanced by changes to front and rear styling.

A new, black-finished mesh insert and central bar accentuate Hyundai's hexagonal grille, which is flanked by new, sportier fog lamp clusters consisting of round spots connected to LED daytime running light strips. The mesh treatment is continued in the clusters, and the front-end design is completed by a newly-profiled lower bumper.

At the rear, the remodelled lower bumper area includes new horizontal, sculpted fog lamps that contrast with the upright units of the five-door. These lights and a new black insert at the bottom of the bumper create the impression of a wider, sportier rear design. Exclusive 16-inch alloy wheels complete the exterior transformation.

Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor Europe, said: "The New Generation i30 three-door has been conceived solely for Europe, and will strengthen Hyundai's presence further in the segment where we have seen our greatest success since 2007. Just as important, its sporty looks - offering a fresh interpretation of fluidic sculpture - will generate greater brand awareness and enhance consumer perceptions of Hyundai in Europe."

New Generation i30 three-door retains the positive characteristics of the five-door, providing high standards of quality, equipment and comfort. Drivers will experience Europe-tuned ride and handling, and can alter the settings of the FLEX STEER system to change steering assistance depending on their preference and prevailing conditions.

The New Generation i30 is offered with a choice of four engines and five power outputs, together with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. The highlight of the powertrain range is the �U-II' 1.6-litre diesel engine, generating 128PS yet emitting only 97g/km of CO2. Together, these figures deliver the best power-to-efficiency ratio in the segment.

The New Generation i30 provides the best evidence yet of Hyundai's commitment to producing cars in Europe, for Europe - combining the design and engineering expertise of the team at Hyundai's European R&D Centre in Germany with the proven manufacturing excellence of the company's Czech factory.

Buyers of the New Generation i30 will benefit from 5 Year Triple Care, comprising a five-year unlimited warranty, five years' roadside assistance, and five years of vehicle health checks.

The New Generation i30 three-door will be officially unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show during the company's press conference at 17:00 (CET) on Thursday 27 September 2012, on the Hyundai booth.

2014 Ford Transit and Transit Connect Debut?Video?

Ford has unveiled the 2014 Transit and Transit Connect, which will go on sale in late next year. The most important is the all-new 2014 Transit, which will replace the E-Series/Econoline van in the U.S. market.

2014-Ford-Transit-Connect-Panel-Van-pr.jpgFord claims the new Transit Connect will have increased cargo capacity and lower operating costs than the outgoing model, with a flexible and functional cargo area equipped with innovative features designed to increase productivity.

In the Euro market, all Transit models will offer front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, and will be powered by the latest 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel.

In North America, customers can choose from several engines, including the proven 3.5-litre EcoBoost or a powerful diesel option. Each model will feature rear-wheel drive and at least 25 percent better fuel economy than a comparable E-Series.

The Transit Connect passenger vehicle, on the other hand, adopts revised styling that borrows cues from the Escape / Kuga. Interior pictures were not released, but Ford says the model has a stylish cockpit with a car-like design and the latest driver assistance technologies.



Press Release

FORD REVEALS ALL-NEW GLOBAL TRANSIT AND TRANSIT CONNECT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES AT �GO FURTHER' EVENT

• Ford unveils its new generation of Transit commercial vehicles, developed on all-new global platforms for sale in Europe, North America and other worldwide markets
• Tough, functional and professional, the all-new Ford Transit brings a new level of capability and versatility to the medium commercial van market; it replaces the heavier two-tonne Transit in Europe and worldwide markets, and replaces the E-Series in North America
• Stylish all-new Ford Transit Connect delivers outstanding performance across load carrying ability, dependability and fuel economy, for a best-in-class cost of ownership package

AMSTERDAM, Sept. 6, 2012 - Ford today revealed a new generation of world-class Transit commercial vehicles at its "Go Further" event.

Developed under its "One Ford" global product strategy in Europe, the Ford Transit and Ford Transit Connect models will be sold in Europe, North America and other worldwide markets, with product ranges tailored to the needs of customers in each region.

"These new products will carry more, work harder, last longer, and cost our customers less to operate - just as Ford Transits have done for 47 years," said Barb Samardzich, vice president Product Development, Ford of Europe. "The unprecedented launch of two all-new Transit models will extend Ford's leadership in serving commercial vehicle customers around the world."

The introduction of the new generation Transit and Transit Connect models is a major step in Ford's commitment to completely redesign its entire commercial vehicle line-up for Europe by the end of 2013.

Using the latest global platforms, the two models highlight Ford's new approach to delivering the next generation of class-leading commercial vehicles to meet the needs of customers in all worldwide markets.

The new range builds on almost 50 years of experience in creating market-leading commercial vans and was engineered at Ford's Centre of Excellence for commercial vehicles in Europe; applying global product development resources.

The all-new Ford Transit replaces the heavier two-tonne Transit derivatives in Europe and other worldwide markets, and will eventually replace the popular Ford E-Series range in North America. Tough, functional and professional, new Transit brings new levels of capability and versatility to the medium commercial van market.

Offering a comprehensive range of body styles and derivatives, with multiple wheelbases, roof heights and new chassis cowl versions, all-new and more capable Transit is tailored to the needs of key worldwide markets.

For Europe, a full range of Transit bodystyles and derivatives, offering front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, will be powered by the latest 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel.

In North America, customers can choose from several engines, including the proven 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 or a powerful diesel option; each features rear-wheel drive and at least 25 percent better fuel economy than a comparable E-Series. Multiple roof heights and wheelbases will be available. North American Transit vans will be manufactured in Kansas City, alongside the Ford F-150.

The stylish all-new Ford Transit Connect will deliver new standards for the sub-one-tonne segment for load-carrying ability, cost of ownership and dependability.

Available in a choice of short and long wheelbase versions, the new Transit Connect will offer European and North American customers the most flexible and functional loadbox in the segment, with a host of innovative features to enhance everyday productivity.

Transit Connect features the latest low-CO2 powertrain technologies to deliver best-in-class fuel economy in all of its target markets. In Europe, the engine line-up will include highly-efficient downsized diesel and petrol engines, while the U.S. market will benefit from a tailored range of gasoline powertrains.

The new model has a stylish cockpit with car-like design and craftsmanship, and offers the latest Ford interior technologies and driver assistance features.

The Ford Transit brand has established a legendary reputation for toughness and dependability, and the new global Transit products have been engineered to extend that tradition. Both the all-new Transit and all-new Transit Connect have been subjected to Ford's ultra-stringent commercial vehicle testing and durability standards, covering millions of miles of arduous testing in laboratories, at proving grounds and on customer fleets.

"Our new global Ford Transit products will be totally fit for purpose," said Samardzich. "These are the strongest, most capable and most efficient commercial vans we have ever built - this is the start of a new chapter in the Transit success story."

In Europe, deliveries of the all-new Transit and Transit Connect are due to start by the end of 2013.

In North America, the all-new Transit and Transit Connect are scheduled to go on sale by the fourth quarter of 2013.

The two new global models join the Transit Custom in Ford's renewed commercial vehicle line-up for Europe. Targeting the one-tonne market, the all-new Transit Custom is now on sale across European markets. It will not be introduced in North America but will be launched in other selected other global markets later.

Paris Preview: Peugeot 208 GTi

Peugeot has unveiled the 208 GTi concept car, which will debut at Paris and hit UK shores in spring 2013. The cabin of the red example in the photos sports a matching theme with red saddle-stitching setting off the black leather and cloth upholstery, flat-bottomed steering wheel, gloss red door grabs and dash accents and red-lit instruments. Emphasising its performance intentions, it features sports seats, drilled aluminium pedals and aluminium gear knob.

The 208 GTI will be powered by the same 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, used in the Peugeot RCZ, Mini Cooper S and Citroen DS3 Racing. It's tuned to the same 197bhp as the top RCZ model and is mated to a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox. 0-62mph is said to be less than 7.0 seconds.

Visually, the three-door-only 208 GTi features new halogen headlamps, gloss black mesh grille with chrome inserts, matching rear skirting with trapezoidal chrome dual exhausts, silver mirror caps and � in a nod to the 205 GTi � a chrome window sill strip.

The car�s interior, too, has been redesigned with dark colour schemes, punctuated by red highlights � and the striking effect is bolstered further by the inclusion of carefully created components. From the seat belts to the steering wheel insert, each component is individually endearing, but also part of a refined, unique and sporty whole.




Press Release

Production model confirmed for the new 208 GTi due in Spring 2013
Regenerates the values of the iconic 205 GTi
Powerful, economical, low CO2 - the modern GTi performs on many levels
Following the successful launch of the new 208 in June 2012, Peugeot has rejuvenated the diverse Supermini car segment. This new model revolutionises customer choice with its elegance, style, compactness, occupant space and equipment. The 208 has been an instant success and the 208 GTi will deliver even stronger desirability with exhilaration, performance and panache.

Intended for demanding individuals, 208 GTi owners will benefit from sophisticated choices of the materials and colours employed. The car's dynamism is expressed first of all by its external identity, specific and immediately recognisable, due to its characteristic posture. Defined on a widened track by 10mm at the front and 20mm at the rear, these three-door models are specially identified by bodywork components which enhance the overall effect, with wheels that hug the arches and with body sills and wing extensions that enhance its visual appearance.

Particularly eye catching and visible both by day and night, the light signature of the front face is refined by new halogen headlamps, equipped with a latest generation light guide. These carefully designed lamps with a rectangular internal structure use LED technology for the directional indicators and daytime lighting. Tightly enclosing the main beam headlamps, the floating trim of which calls to mind a cat's pupil, they give the expression of an iris.

These lamps frame a special 208 grille and on the GTi the mesh contributes to the dynamism, making the lamps stand out. The gloss black grille draws the eye with bright chrome inserts, which reinvent the sport chequered flag effect but in 3D. The end result is a front appearance which is technological and endearing while being sophisticated.

Attention to detail has also taken precedence in the design of the passenger compartment, to create a most pleasant environment. This applies even when stationary as it becomes evident at first glance when the door is opened, revealing the aluminium sill stamped with the Peugeot name. Dark colour schemes exist throughout the upper section and the 208 GTi offers a unique ambiance themed with red highlights.

The dashboard houses a high-mounted instrument panel with an innovative and distinctive light signature. Echoing the LED functions of the headlamps, the dials are surrounded with satin chrome beads backlit by LEDs, whereas the needles move on a brushed aluminium background.

The passenger compartment is also punctuated with carefully designed components. So, the vents, the side decorations of the touchscreen, the dashboard decoration, the steering wheel insert, the seat belts, the front and rear door crossbars all blend with the same interior ambiance. The aluminium pedal bracket and footrest provide the final touch to this technological and refined interior.

208 GTi, re-generation of the legend

Peugeot has made its mark in the history of motor sport. Whether through its models, its success in competition or its infamy through advertising and promotions, the Marque's DNA has the best genes for creating the modern performance GTi. The expectation was simple: to create a playful and chic sports car, a contemporary interpretation of the legend that is a Peugeot GTi.

At first glance, the eyes are impressed initially by presence, with a vehicle which affirms its identity: sporty and refined. There can be no doubting the sportiness of this new 208 derivative. Crossing the gloss black rear skirt, the exhaust emerges with a trapezoid chromed double tailpipe, an innovative design emphasising the uniqueness of this model. The chromed trim strip decorates the window lower edge culminating in a signature accent that pays tribute to the illustrious 205 GTi.

Furthermore, the quarter panel trim proudly bears the GTi logo, in bright chrome accentuated in red highlights. Regardless of the exterior colour chosen, this red punctuates throughout the vehicle: on brake callipers, grille lower bead, Peugeot lettering on the tailgate and on the grille. In addition, the mesh of the grille has a 3D chequered motif, with chromed inserts in the gloss black grille. The whole is subtly enhanced by the touches of bright chrome on the fog lamp trim surrounds, the grille upper trim and the door mirrors.

Opening the doors reveals a passenger compartment that reflects the paintwork. From the sill, embossed with the name Peugeot, the passenger compartment is notably sporty. With a colour scheme combining red, black and satin chrome and red GTi overstitching throughout, the interior is striking, down to the smallest detail.

Resolutely sporty, the seat combines full grain Club Nappa leather and Caro Weave cloth, made more dynamic by a red line detail. The dashboard with red overstitching has a decoration of red graduating to black, matching the door crossbars. The vehicle performance information is provided via the high-mounted instrument panel. Technological, it is equipped with a colour matrix, surrounded by dials with a chromed bead back-lit in red by LEDs. On their brushed aluminium background, decorated with a gloss black chequered motif, the white needles rise through to the red zone.

The driver is well supported in the cossetting seat structure, harnessed in black seat belts (with red edging) allowing an excellent driving position that is clear and comfortable. The feet naturally find the aluminium pedals and footrest, the heels in contact with the unique 208 GTi floor mats with black surround and again, overstitched in red. Intuitively, the hands rest on the small black full grain perforated leather steering wheel with red overstitching. The left hand easily and naturally finds the aluminium gear lever knob, with red side insert and the overstitched leather handbrake lever.

"The 208 was an excellent base for developing a sports hatchback. We have worked with particular attention on the steering response, the chassis dynamics and the rigidity of the suspension. The 208 GTi successfully combines performance, safety and driving pleasure." Marie Beaumont, 208 GTi Dynamics Manager

The 208 GTi delights its driver with an incisive driving experience due to the involving chassis dynamics, providing superb driving sensations. Springs, calibration of the shock absorbers, anti-roll bar, enhanced front subframe and rear crossmember rigidity, plus that the suspension and wheels are specific to this latest Peugeot GTi.

Agile and reactive, the 208 GTi balances from one turn to the next with complete precision. Controlled by the steering, the settings of which have been revised to increase firmness, the front suspension returns the information perfectly and responsively. The rear suspension is also well tuned for safe and involved driving. Fitted with 205/45 tyres, the 17" diamond Carbon wheels, with Storm paint and matt varnish, house 302mm ventilated discs at the front and 249mm at the rear. Cooled by dynamic air intakes, they provide controlled and incisive braking.

The 1.6-litre THP 200bhp petrol engine expresses itself through a reworked exhaust system. As soon as the ignition is switched on, it emits an appealing sound that delights the ears, at all engine speeds. Coupled with a manual gearbox with six, close-ratio gears, the engine draws the full potential from this chassis. With its maximum torque of 275Nm and its maximum power of 147kW (200bhp), the 208 GTi[1] has the potential of acceleration to the highest level. 0 to 62mph is reached in less than 7.0 seconds. In-gear re-acceleration is equally impressive, with the 208 GTi accelerating from 50 to 75mph in less than 7.0 seconds in 5th gear. This performance benefits from the improvement achieved from lightening the weight of the vehicle.

Light in weight, at 1160kg, the 208 GTi achieves a real feat by emitting CO2 at just 145g/km. A playful sports car, powerful and safe, with an enchanting sound, which is also a practical hatchback, the 208 GTi will delight its drivers every day, the (fully disengageable) ESP watching over them.

The announcement of this new Peugeot 208 GTi follows closely on from the launch of 208 which has been an instant success, now with 9,000 UK orders since order books opened.

British buyers will be delighted with this modern take of a true Peugeot GTi classic.