Nissan 370Z Nismo (2014)

In conjunction with the U.S. debut of the new 2013 Nissan Juke Nismo - and the ongoing expansion of the Nismo brand worldwide - Nissan gave attendees at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show a preview of the 2014 Nissan 370Z Nismo. Set to go on sale at Nissan U.S. dealers nationwide in summer 2013, the Nissan 370Z Nismo follows the new Nismo design theme with distinctive new exterior and interior accents.

Pierre Loing, Vice President, Product and Advanced Planning and Strategy, Nissan Americas said: "The 370Z Nismo, since its introduction as part of the original Nissan 350Z lineup, has embodied the spirit of Nismo - race-proven engineering that is attainable. With the enhancements for the 2014 model year and the addition of the new Juke Nismo, we're unifying the look and feel of these distinctive Nismo models and paving the way for additional Nismo vehicles to follow."

With the current Nissan 370Z Nismo setting the bar as a tuner-Z® enthusiast's dream straight from the factory and fully warranted - offering 350 horsepower, racing-inspired exterior and interior styling, a specially tuned suspension and unique super-lightweight forged alloy wheels - the enhancements for 2014 are designed to up the car's already strong visual impact. On the exterior, new dark gray coloring is added to the front and rear fascias, lower side sills, side mirrors and Nismo rear spoiler, with each element (except side sills) featuring Nismo-style red pinstripe accents. In addition, Solid Red replaces the previous Magma Red as one of four Nissan 370Z Nismo exterior color choices. Interior enhancements include the addition of a new steering wheel with Alcantara appointments and red accents, and a red Nismo tachometer.

The Nissan 370Z Nismo's outstanding performance is anchored by an advanced Nissan FM (Front Midship) platform, refined 4-wheel independent suspension and 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) rated at 350 hp @ 7,400 rpm and 276 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm. The VVEL system helps optimize intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time. The Nissan 370Z Nismo's enhanced engine power and acceleration (versus non-Nismo 370Zs) is provided through use of an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design and muffler tuning, along with optimized ECM (Engine Control Module) calibration.

Just one transmission is offered, a close-ratio 6-speed manual with Nissan's SynchroRev Match® synchronized downshift rev matching system. The SynchroRev Match® function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the speed of the next gear position, essentially "blipping" the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves the smoothness of gear shifts by reducing the typical "shock" when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer to shift on their own.

The Nissan 370Z Nismo also features a tight, rigid body structure with a strut tower bar brace and a pair of performance dampers, which quickly and efficiently react to help control body vibrations from road input via the tires, contributing to the Nissan 370Z Nismo's outstanding handling and performance feel. The Nissan 370Z Nismo's double-wishbone front/4-link rear suspension design suspension is specially tuned for exceptional handling, including higher spring and stabilizer bar rates and increased roll stiffness and front and rear damping factors (compared to non-Nismo models).

The 2014 370Z Nismo rides on unique 5-spoke Nissan-branded 19-inch RAYS forged aluminum-alloy wheels (19x9.5-inch front, 19x10.5-inch rear) with a Gun Metallic finish. The wheels are mounted with Bridgestone Potenza S001 Y-rated high-performance tires (245/40ZR19 front, 285/35ZR19 rear). Braking is provided by Nismo Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear vented rotors with 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers.

The braking system includes a variable ratio brake pedal, high-rigidity brake hoses, R35 Special II fluid and red-finish calipers.

Along with the new color treatments, the 2014 Nissan 370Z Nismo exterior includes an extended front nose design and a fully integrated chin spoiler - providing a sense of dynamic movement while enhancing airflow and downforce for enhanced aerodynamic performance. The 370Z Nismo is 6.2 inches longer than the standard 370Z Coupe. Special side sills and a unique rear bumper help control airflow under the vehicle, while the functional rear spoiler increases downforce. Four exterior colors are offered: Pearl White, Magnetic Black, Gun Metallic and Solid Red.

Inside, the Nissan 370Z Nismo's driver-centric interior includes Nismo logo seats with black and red fabric and red stitching, a Nismo tachometer, steering wheel with Alcantara wrap and red parallel stitching, smooth leather-wrapped shift knob and aluminum-trimmed pedals. A special serialized plaque of authenticity, located on the vertical panel above the floor-mounted console, is matched to each Nissan 370Z Nismo identifying its unique serial and model year designation.

The sporty woven cloth seats feature standard 8-way driver's/4-way passenger manual adjustments and adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints. Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Start, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature and automatic climate control. An AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system is standard. Also available is a Bose® Package featuring an in-dash 6CD changer, two additional speakers (six total), two subwoofers, Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System, auto-dimming inside mirror and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver. There are no other options offered.

Said Loing: "The great thing about the 370Z Nismo, like the Juke Nismo, is that there is solid functionality behind every element - race-inspired but ready for the street - and with pure Nismo style."

Source : http://www.netcarshow.com

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Porsche 911 Turbo S (2014)

The Porsche model offensive in the anniversary year of the 911 is reaching new heights. 50 years ago, the 911 made its debut at the 1963 Frankfurt International Auto Show. And just ten years later, the first 911 Turbo prototype was at the IAA. On this 40th anniversary Porsche is now presenting the new generation 911 Turbo and Turbo S - the technological and dynamic performance peak of the 911 series. New all-wheel drive, active rear axle steering, adaptive aerodynamics, full-LED headlights and the up to 560 hp flat six-cylinder engine with bi-turbo charging underscore the role of the new generation 911 Turbo as a circuit racing car, everyday car and technology platform. Playing an equally crucial role are the entirely new chassis in lightweight design with a 100 mm longer wheelbase and larger 20-inch wheels. The PDCC active anti-roll system, which is being offered for the first time in 911 Turbo models, increases dynamic performance even more. This system is standard equipment in the Porsche 911 Turbo S, as is the Sport Chrono Package with dynamic engine mounts and PCCB ceramic brakes; all of these features are also available as options in the 911 Turbo. The results: The new 911 Turbo S shortens the lap time for the North Loop of the Nürburgring to well under 7:30 minutes - naturally with standard production tyres. The standard sound symposer intensifies the driving experience; it transmits induction sounds of the turbo engine to the passenger compartment via a speaker diaphragm.

The performance partners in the powertrain area are the further advanced engines and the new PTM all-wheel drive system. The turbocharged 3.8-litre six-cylinder engine with direct petrol injection produces 520 hp (383 kW) in the 911 Turbo and 560 hp (412 kW) in the S model. Porsche continues to be the only carmaker to offer two turbochargers with variable turbine geometry for a petrol engine. Power is transferred to the drivetrain via the seven-speed dual clutch transmission (PDK), which now enables an auto start/stop function with engine shutoff that now activates earlier during coasting to a stop as well as a coasting function. Together with the new thermal management system for the turbo engine and the PDK transmission, fuel efficiency technologies have reduced NEDC fuel consumption by up to 16 per cent to 9.7 l/100 km; these figures apply to both models.More power, fuel economy improved by 16 per cent

New all-wheel drive with electro-hydraulic control

For an even faster and more precise power distribution to the two axles, Porsche developed a new all-wheel drive system (PTM) with electronically controlled and activated multi-plate coupling. The system is equipped with a new water cooling function, so that it can direct even more drive torque to the front wheels if necessary. Simultaneously, the optimised interplay of the engine, transmission and all-wheel drive systems takes the new top 911 to even better sprint capabilities. The 911 Turbo with the optional Sport Chrono Package accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, which is even one-tenth better than the value of the previous 911 Turbo S. The new Porsche 911 Turbo S handles the standard sprint to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds. The car's top speed is 318 km/h (197 mph).

Widest body of all 911 cars

The two new top models display their performance visually more than ever. The characteristic, expansively wide rear body panels of the new generation 911 Turbo are 28 mm wider than on the 911 Carrera 4 models - they feature a nearly level surface, about the width of a hand, between the C-pillar and the outer edge of the car body. Other differentiating characteristics include two-tone forged 20-inch wheels - on the Porsche 911 Turbo S they have hub wheel locks. The Turbo S is also making its appearance with new full-LED headlights that feature four-point daytime running lights and dynamic, camera-based main beam control, which can be ordered as an option for the 911 Turbo.

Rear axle steering sustainably improves handling

The introduction of rear axle steering in all turbo models immensely improves both circuit racing and everyday performance of the two new top sports cars. The system consists of two electro-mechanical actuators instead of the conventional control arms on the left and right of the rear axle. The steering angle of the rear wheels can be varied by up to 2.8 degrees, depending on vehicle speed. At speeds up to 50 km/h, when the front wheels are turned the system steers the rear wheels in the opposite direction. This actually corresponds to a virtual shortening of the wheelbase by 250 mm, which gives the 911 Turbo unrivalled performance in bends. The system lets the car turn faster into the bend and offers more dynamic steering response. This noticeably simplifies manoeuvring and parking.

At speeds above 80 km/h, the system steers the rear wheels parallel to the turned front wheels. This is equivalent to a virtual lengthening of the wheelbase by a significant 500 mm and gives the sports car tremendous stability, especially at high speeds. At the same time, the steering input by the driver leads to significantly faster build-up of lateral force at the rear axle, which initiates the change in direction more spontaneous and harmoniously.

Active aerodynamics improve efficiency and performance

Porsche developed an active aerodynamic system on the new 911 Turbo models for the first time — Porsche active aerodynamics (PAA). It consists of a sturdy, retractable three-stage front spoiler, whose segments can be pneumatically extended, and a deployable rear wing with three adjustable wing positions. This makes it possible to tune the aerodynamics of the 911 Turbo to fulfil driver wishes for either optimal efficiency (speed position) or top dynamic performance. In the performance position, all segments of the front spoiler are fully extended, and they generate considerable downforce at the front axle. Similarly, the rear wing is extended to its maximum height with the greatest angle of attack. This also generates more downforce at the rear axle. Dynamic performance is improved to such an extent that lap times at the North Loop of the Nürburgring are improved by up to two seconds due to this system alone.

New interior with high-end features

The interior was completely redesigned in both 911 Turbo models, and it builds on the 911 Carrera family. The S model is particularly well equipped, offering such features as an exclusive interior in a black/carrera red colour combination and adaptive sport seats plus with 18-way adjustment and memory. In addition, the seat backrest shells are leather upholstered with double cap seams and various elements in carbon look. Like on the previous models, the Bose sound system is installed as standard; for the first time, a Burmester system is also available as an optional feature. A radar-controlled cruise control system, camera-based road sign recognition and speed limit recognition are other new options being offered.

The new top models of the 911 model series arrive on the market at the end of September 2013. In Germany, the 911 Turbo costs 162,055 euros; the new Porsche 911 Turbo S costs 195,256 euros, including VAT and country-specific features. In the UK, the Turbo is priced from £118,349 and the Turbo S from £140,852. In the United States, the 911 Turbo is priced from $148,300 while the 911 Turbo S begins at $181,100, not including a destination charge of $950.

Source : http://www.netcarshow.com

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Aston Martin Rapide S (2014)

The stunning new Aston Martin Rapide S is making its debut with yet more luxury and yet more power on offer in its quintessentially elegant four-door silhouette.

The iconic British car maker's new luxury GT has been sympathetically redesigned and painstakingly re-engineered to reassert its position as the world's most beautiful, and beautifully balanced, four-seat sports car.

Aside from the extensive design and engineering improvements, the luxurious new Aston Martin Rapide S - which replaces the outgoing Rapide in markets worldwide - is now even more refined thanks to a range of additions to the four-seater's sumptuous interior.

Still instantly recognisable as an Aston Martin, of course, the new Aston Martin Rapide S now boasts an imposing and assertive new 'face', created by virtue of the impressive and striking new full grille.

Imbuing the new car with an even more sporting, forceful demeanour, the revised front end design is matched at the back by a striking new rear deck profile which includes a more pronounced boot lid 'flip'. The aerodynamic and aesthetic upgrades both reinforce the sporting nature of new Aston Martin Rapide S and work to counteract lift at higher speeds.

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Audi SQ5 3.0 TFSI (2014)

The new Audi SQ5 shown at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show is the first ever to be powered by a gasoline engine - in this case one producing 260 kW (354 hp) and 470 Nm (346.65 lb-ft) of torque. The new top-of-the-line model, which was designed specifically for markets such as the United States, Canada and China, uses a 3.0 TFSI engine with forced induction. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 5.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

The new Audi SQ5 is powered by a free-revving, supercharged, three-liter V6 engine with a displacement of 2,995 cc. Its compressor sits in the 90-degree V of the cylinder banks and is belt-driven by the crankshaft. Two rotors inside the supercharger spin at over 20,000 rpm. The air gap between them is just a few thousandths of a millimeter. The supercharger compresses the intake air to as much as 0.8 bar; two intercoolers then cool it for greater power.

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Audi RS5 Cabriolet (2014)

Dynamic performance where the sky's the limit - the new Audi RS5 Cabriolet entices with a scintillating combination of power and elegance. The four-seat convertible, which is built in Neckarsulm by quattro GmbH, combines its distinctly sporty character with the exhilaration of open-top driving.

The high-revving V8 FSI develops 331 kW (450 hp) from its 4.2 liters of displacement, accelerating the Audi RS5 Cabriolet from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.9 seconds. The seven-speed S tronic and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system reliably transmit power to the road. The chassis also boasts a wide array of high-tech solutions, ranging from carbon fiber brake discs to the sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC). Sophisticated assistance and infotainment systems round out the offering.

The 4.2-liter FSI delivers 430 Nm (317.15 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm. It produces 331 kW (450 hp) at 8,250 rpm. The long-stroke naturally aspirated engine develops 79.5 kW (108.1 hp) per liter displacement and special flaps in the exhaust tailpipe vary the sound. The convertible accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.9 seconds - the best in its class. As an option, Audi can increase the top speed from 250 (155.34 mph) to 280 km/h (173.98 mph). The combined fuel consumption of the powerful V8 is 10.7 liters per 100 km (21.98 US mpg).

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