Volvo XC60, 2009

 

 

 

 

•  Volvo XC60, 2009

The new Volvo XC60 is the first vehicle in a new generation of the contemporary cross-over concept. It is a combination of a traditional city vehicle and an XC vehicle aimed for young, professional urban people with an active life. Volvo XC60 is a sporty and dynamic car with tasteful exterior and interior design and versatile functionality.

Exterior
Volvo XC60 has a characteristic XC design language, with a blend of passenger- and coupe-like car shapes - including a touch of well-known Volvo design elements. The formula-drive stance, with big wheels "in the corners", lifted visual platform and a very high waistline - all contribute to a sturdy and robust impression. The V-shape design, i.e. front spoiler, LED lamps, bonnet, goes all the way to the rear.

The rear design is characterised by the tail lamps with micro optics and LED technique. The lamps, distributing light in a special way, give a characteristic "Volvo" design impression.

Integrated roof rails
The roof rails provide a solid and tight impression. They are available in two versions - Charcoal (standard) or Silk-Metal - and built into the car at the factory.

Body
The advanced front structure consists of deformation zones of different grades of steel, each one with a certain role in a collision. The structure is designed to help providing increased protection in a frontal collision.

Side structures of different grades of steel and a number of tubes and members are all designed to "move" the body to the side, help reducing the risk of passenger compartment intrusion. Volvo's Side Impact Protection System helps absorbing the forces in order to maintain an adequate space for the passengers.

Lower cross member
The front structure has been supplemented by a lower cross member that adapts the front to the height of a normal-sized passenger car. This enables the other car's deformation zones to function as they were intended to provide protection for the car's occupants.

News - panoramic roof
The panoramic roof is a new detail that replaces the traditional sunroof. It is divided into two sections and gives the interior an airy and fresh feeling. The roof glass is tinted and laminated.

Laminated glass contributes to increased security
Laminated glass can be chosen in all of the car's windows to make break-in considerably more difficult.

Roll Stability Control (RSC) and Roll-Over Protection System (ROPS)
Roll Stability Control is an active function that intervenes in situations when the car is exposed to forces that could cause it to roll over. The function helps stabilise the car and reduces the risk of rolling over in an accident.

If a rollover accident should occur the Roll-Over Protection System helps to protect the passengers. An inclination sensor included in the Roll Stability Control continuously reads the cars roll rate. If threshold values are exceeded, the system takes action by for example deploying the inflatable Curtains. The Roll-Over Protection System is a complex system that includes the body's safety structure as well as the SRS components.

Interior
The interior is driver oriented and designed to create a dynamic feel. The lines on panels and surfaces connect different interior panels with each other to create a harmonious style with "loops." Thick and thin lines contribute to the XC profile.

The characteristic and floating centre console gives a dynamic and sporty impression. The centre console is slightly angled towards the driver to enhance the driver dynamics. The visual "X" in the seats and backrests enhances the dynamic appearance.

Practical loading area
The loading area has a lockable load floor covering two storage areas, one for personal items and another for soiled or wet items. The load cover extends over the entire loading area. The rear door prevents the floor hatch from being opened when the car is closed and locked.

Three interior levels
The following interior levels are available for the Volvo XC60:

• Full textile - a combination of two different textiles and available in Off-Black or Soft Beige.
• T-Tec and textile - available in Anthracite Black/Off-Black or Soft Beige/Mocca.
• Leather in Off-Black or Soft Beige - offered with the accent colours Lemon Green/Off-Black or Soft Beige/Espresso Brown.

Two wood inlays
Two different wood inlays are available: Classic Wood and Nordic Light Oak. The standard base theme is called Charcoal, and another inlay theme is called Brushed Aluminium.

Power tailgate
The optional power tailgate can be opened automatically in three ways - via the remote control, by a button in the light panel or by opening the tailgate with the handle. The automatic opening feature is very convenient if you approach the car loaded down with shopping bags.

Three-section rear seat
The three-split (40/20/40) rear seat and backrest offer two separate seats with an armrest in the middle, or three seats with safety belts for each occupant. The seat cushions are fixed and the backrest(s) can be individually folded.

Six-cylinder turbo engine
The 3-litre, six-cylinder turbo engine is transversely mounted and very compact. The engine delivers 285 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, from low up to high revs. The turbo-six provides a high level of driving pleasure, with quick throttle response at all speeds, ideal for quick overtaking, for example.

Five-cylinder turbo-diesel in two variants
The Volvo XC60 is available with two five-cylinder turbo-diesel engines, producing 163 hp and 340 Nm or 185 hp and 400 Nm. The diesel engines combine low fuel consumption with sporty driving characteristics. The driveability is very good even with a heavy load or when driving with a trailer. Both engines are equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to help reduce the amount of harmful particles in the exhaust gases.

Six-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic
The compact, six-speed automatic transmission has been engineered to handle the high torques developed by engines such as the T6 and the powerful D5 diesel engine. Geartronic enables the automatic transmission to be used as a manual gearbox as well.

Six-speed manual transmission
The manual six-speed gearbox provides good tractive power in each gear in order to combine rapid acceleration with high top speed.

All Wheel Drive (AWD) for enhanced stability
All Wheel Drive is an electronically controlled system that distributes engine power between the front and rear wheels quickly and automatically, depending on which wheel pair (front or rear wheels) has the best grip at the moment. The system helps enhance stability and reduces under/over steering, and contributes to increased driver control and a comfortable ride.

Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) for stabilising car and trailer
Trailer Stability Assist is intended for stabilising the car and trailer. The system detects if the trailer starts "snaking"; a phenomenon that may occur at certain speeds depending on the mass of the trailer and how it is loaded. If Trailer Stability Assist senses snaking tendencies, it brakes the car's individual wheels to counteract the oscillation. Trailer Stability Assist is activated at speeds between 60 and 160 kph.

Further developed Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC)

Volvo's Dynamic Stability and Traction Control system has been further developed and registers the car's roll rate continuously, giving the opportunity to detect slowly built up skids at an early stage. Generally, the system helps stabilise the car in evasive manoeuvres, particularly when the car is exposed to high lateral forces.

Hill Descent Control (HDC) for steep inclines
Hill Descent Control controls the car's speed automatically when driving down steep inclines. The Hill Descent Control function makes it possible for the driver to focus completely on driving when descending steep hills. The driver can control the speed with the brake pedal or the accelerator when Hill Descent Control is activated.

Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept (FOUR-C)
Volvo's FOUR-C function monitor's the chassis' movements and makes it possible to choose a chassis setting that suits a certain driving style. The driver can choose between three settings: Comfort, Sport and Advanced.

Speed-dependent power steering contributes to easier steering
The Volvo XC60 is equipped with speed dependent and progressive power steering to make steering easier at low speeds. One of three steering force levels can be selected to suit different drivers and driving conditions.

News - City Safety
City Safety is a new function, sensing if vehicles ahead are moving slower or standing still. By measuring the car's speed and distance to the vehicle ahead, City Safety is able to calculate the braking force needed when approaching the other vehicle. In a situation where the calculated braking force needed reaches a certain level, and the driver has not reacted, the City Safety function senses that a collision is imminent.

The function is a standard feature that is active if the car's speed is below 30 km/h (19 mph). In situations where the difference in speed between two vehicles is 15 km/h (9 mph) or less, a collision can be avoided completely. In a potential collision situation in which the difference in speed between the vehicles is between 15-30 km/h (9-19 mph), City Safety alone cannot prevent a collision. However, the consequences of the impending collision can be mitigated considerably because the system will intervene to reduce speed when the collision occurs.

News - Pre-Prepared Restraints
Pre-Prepared Restraints - a new function - is able to prepare/adapt the belts and airbags to an expected crash load in low or mildly severe frontal collisions before the actual impact happens. This means that the belts and airbags get some 'extra' time to prepare before the impact and help making the safety belts and airbags even more effective. Remember to always use safety belts when driving or travelling in a car. Pre-Prepared Restraints is a standard feature in Volvo XC60.

Collision Warning with Autobrake alerts the driver
Collision Warning with Autobrake alerts the driver if the distance to a vehicle ahead suddenly decreases. The function contributes in giving the driver a fair chance to avoid a collision. The system's braking function prepares for heavy braking and brakes the car automatically (with up to 50% of the maximum braking power) if the driver has not reacted to the warning signal. Collision Warning with Autobrake is an optional feature.

Infiniti FX37, 2009

 

 

 

• Infiniti FX37, 2009

A genuine fusion of sports car and SUV, the Infiniti FX37's dramatic styling - shared with the Infiniti FX50 - sets it apart from the crowd. Built on Infiniti's FM (front-midships) platform, the Infiniti FX37 blends sports car proportions with the character of a 4x4. That means a long bonnet and wheelbase, short overhangs and a coupé-like roofline, with the stance and strength of an SUV.

Engine
The Infiniti FX37 is powered by the 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine delivering 320PS at 7,000 rpm and a healthy 360Nm of torque (comparable figures for the V8 FX50 are 390PS and 500Nm).
A member of the multi-award winning VQ engine family, the all-aluminium 24-valve twin cam unit features a bed-plate construction. A technique that has been used in motor racing for many years, the resulting two-part construction of the cylinder block is more rigid than a single piece casting.

It is a configuration that signifies a high-performance sporting engine designed for the highest strength and reliability. Other benefits include reduced vibration levels and higher engine speeds to be reached consistently without damage.

The engine, which is fully Euro 5 compliant, incorporates VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology to optimise efficiency and, in turn, the balance between power, response, fuel efficiency and emissions. VVEL continually alters valve lift and therefore the quantity of air in the combustion chamber. The result is a more powerful combustion phase increasing torque and power.
Precise mapping of the ECU, meanwhile, helps the engine provide a progressive 'swell' of power and torque, providing a 'building wave' of acceleration rather than a peaky power delivery.

Infiniti FX37 comes with a new seven-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) as standard providing a wider spread of transmission ratios for improved fuel consumption and drivability. The seventh speed is effectively an overdrive ratio, returning improved fuel economy on a steady throttle without compromising in-gear flexibility for overtaking.

Shift points are tuned to keep the engine in the largest part of the torque curve, ensuring there is always a healthy reserve when the driver wants to overtake. The linked ASC system switches between three different programs depending on input from the major control systems throughout the car. Manual shifts can be made via paddle shifts mounted behind the steering wheel.

Chassis
Suspension design is fully independent and uses lightweight aluminium components to reduce weight as much as possible. With a double wishbone set up at the front, a multi-link arrangement mounted on a subframe behind and an extremely rigid bodyshell, Infiniti FX37 combines agility with exceptional ride comfort.

In keeping with its crossover role, Infiniti FX37 features Infiniti's ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) four-wheel drive technology. The system uses an active torque distribution management system with an active centre clutch for smooth starts, greater grip and better manoeuvrability on slippery surfaces without compromising the vehicle's rear-wheel drive performance characteristics on dry roads. Torque distribution is anything from 50:50 up to 0:100, front to rear. Unlike permanent 4x4 systems, which can deaden the steering feel and dull the driving dynamics, the electromagnetic torque transfer at the heart of ATTESA E-TS intelligent 4WD's system permits an element of oversteer for a more sporting drive.

When Infiniti FX37 accelerates from a standing start, ATTESA E-TS system provides power to all four wheels. Once up to speed, if the system's sensors detect that all-wheel drive is not needed, up to 100 percent of the power is sent to the rear wheels. This rear-bias offers better handling balance and improved fuel efficiency.

In common with the entire Infiniti range, Infiniti FX37 has been fine tuned for European road conditions. As well as revised settings for the suspension and steering and enhanced NVH protection, Infiniti FX37 has been given bigger brakes better to cope with Europe's higher average speeds. This, in turn, has allowed 20-inch alloy wheels to be fitted as standard.

Styling
An all-new design, the latest generation FX range adopts Infiniti's signature double-arch grille and 'double wave' frontal styling. The profile is dominated by a strong shoulder-line set off by functional side vents behind the front wheels while the swooping roofline is topped by roof rails, which are fitted as standard. At the rear, distinctive LED taillights wrap around the side of the vehicle.

Helping to contribute to a low overall weight, all four doors are made from aluminium.
The interior provides a driver-oriented cockpit combined with a luxuriously sophisticated passenger compartment. Natural materials including wood and quilted leather can be found throughout while the dashboard features the Infiniti signature double-wave design. Three interior colour schemes are offered: black plus duo-tone beige and grey or brown and black. Power adjustable front seats are ventilated for the ultimate in comfort at all times.

Equipment
Other items of standard equipment include Intelligent Key with keyless go, and Bi-Xenon headlamps with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) which automatically controls the aim and patterns of the headlights, based on steering wheel angle and vehicle speed (the headlights can swivel headlights up to 17 degrees).

Also available is the Intelligent Cruise Control with Full Speed Range incorporating technology that maintains a set distance between the Infiniti FX37 and the vehicle in front in a speed range of 0 to 180 km/h, thus reducing the driver's workload in traffic.
An extensive equipment list also includes an electric sunroof, rear privacy glass, front fog lamps, light and rain sensors and a total of six airbags - front side and curtain.

The Infiniti FX37 comes standard with a rear view parking camera and display, full telephone communication via Bluetooth, an in-dash six-disc CD changer plus an Aux-In socket for mp3 players complete the package.
In common with other Infiniti models, FX37 has the advanced 'Scratch Shield' paint. A special highly elastic resin has been combined with a conventional clearcoat to increase the paint's flexibility to produce 'self healing' characteristics.

There are two major option packs: Sport and Multimedia. The Sport pack includes active Continuous Damping Control system with electronically controlled shock absorbers that continuously alter the damping settings to provide optimal ride and handling.

The pack also incorporates sports seats with inflatable cushions for added bolster and upper body support and 21-inch alloy wheels. Visual differences include smoked headlamps, black roof lining and the availability of black trim finishers inside the cabin.

The multimedia pack is based around a top-end Bose 11 speaker audio system and the latest satellite navigation system with voice recognition featuring an 8-inch full colour display on which it can display Bird View navigation and real time traffic information.

Also available as an option is Infiniti's Around View Monitor which uses small cameras mounted at the front, rear and on the sides of the vehicle to project an all-round view of potential obstacles.

A natural extension of Infiniti's rear view parking camera, Around View Monitor uses the colour monitor to display a bird's eye view of the car as it parks, enabling the driver to negotiate tight parking spots with ease.

Ford F-250 Super Duty, 2008

 

 

 

• Ford F-250 Super Duty, 2008

Ford F-Series Super Duty, the industry's leading heavy-duty work truck and a mainstay of businesses throughout America, has been overhauled for the 2008 model year. Ford's Super Duty pickup has been the leader in the over 8,500-pound truck segment since launch, offering best-in-class payload, gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR) and trailer tow ratings. The new Super Duty, which will go on sale in early 2007, will help ensure that Ford Motor Company maintains its nearly 30 years of leadership in the pickup truck business.

Offered in three cab styles - Regular Cab, SuperCab and Crew Cab - and with two bed lengths, the new Super Duty will feature a bold look inside and out, an all-new, more powerful, state-of-the-art Power Stroke  Diesel and a host of unique, innovative features not found on any other truck. And the line of Ford Super Duty trucks has been expanded for 2008, with an even more capable workhorse: the new F-450 pickup.

Ford's Super Duty set the standard in the over 8,500-pound truck segment when it was launched in 1998 as a 1999 model. Unlike competitors who simply modify their existing light-duty trucks, Super Duty utilizes its own unique architecture, designed and developed specifically to meet the needs and demands of the over 8,500-pound truck customer. This unique approach, with two dedicated architectures, is just one reason why the Ford F-Series has been America's best-selling truck for 29 years and why Super Duty has dominated its segment, outperforming and outselling the competition every year since launch.

For true truck customers, Super Duty is their life-blood, serving the multifaceted aspects of their lives. Whether towing a backhoe to the construction site or towing a boat to the lake, they demand a truck that is capable and dependable. Super Duty consistently meets those needs.

All-new F-450 pickup adds capability for customers who demand the most
Today's Super Duty customers are consistently searching for more capability. Ford research has shown that more than 90 percent of Super Duty owners tow, and their towing needs are growing. To meet that need, Ford is introducing the new F-450 pickup model. It combines the right axle, right powertrain, and right suspension to manage the loads of pulling a heavier trailer while maintaining a refined, comfortable ride.

The F-450 pickup rides on its own unique chassis. It incorporates a new rear leaf-spring suspension while u sing the radius arm front suspension from the F-450 chassis cab. This set-up provides for the tightest turning radius in its class, greatly improving maneuverability when towing.


According to a study by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA), towable RV shipments have grown steadily over the past five years, topping out at 323,000 units shipped in 2005, a 15.4 percent increase over 2004. In the same time frame, conventional motor coaches experienced a decline in sales, with shipments of the Type A variety down 18.1 percent in 2005.

The RVIA says that higher fuel prices and a desire for more flexibility are driving customers out of conventional motor coaches and into towable travel trailers and fifth wheels. And as these customers move to towable trailers, they will still expect to have the same level of luxury features - such as tile floors, granite countertops and big-screen TVs - as they had in their motor coaches. For example, almost 90 percent of fifth-wheel RVs shipped in 2005 had at least one fold-out room, according to RVIA data.

The 2007 F-350 Super Duty already offered best-in-class maximum payload of 5,800 pounds and maximum towing capacity of 19,200 pounds. The new 2008 F-450 pickup widens the capability gap, offering a maximum payload of more than 6,000 pounds and towing capacity of more than 24,000 pounds - a 5,000-pound increase over the class-leading F-350. All of this added capability comes with the same increased level of refinement found in the new F-250 and F-350.

All-new 6.4-liter Power Stroke ® Diesel is cleaner, quieter and more powerful
A more powerful 6.4-liter Power Stroke ® Diesel joins a powertrain lineup that already includes the segment's most powerful gasoline engine, the 362-horsepower 6.8-liter V-10 Triton.

Annual U.S. diesel truck registrations have increased to more than 500,000 a year from about 400,000 in 2001. Ford has long been the industry leader, selling 1.3 million diesel-powered F-Series pickups in the United States since 2001 alone. Ford sells more diesel-powered pickup trucks annually than Chevrolet and Dodge combined. Nearly three-quarters of all Ford Super Duty trucks sold are diesel-powered.

The new engine benefits from an innovative development process designed to more accurately reflect how Super Duty customers use their vehicles every day. The team began by collecting real-world data from working Super Duty commercial customers, tracking their daily duty cycles. That data was used to develop durability tests that more closely represented real-world use. To better assure durability, the tests were conducted using the most extreme and abusive conditions and run to five-times the life cycle that the hardest-working truck would ever experience.

The 6.4-liter Power Stroke  Diesel delivers 350 horsepower at 3,000 rpm and 650 lb.-ft. of torque starting at 2,000 rpm and utilizes Ford Clean Diesel Technology, which includes, among other features, a high-pressure, common rail fuel system, Piezo-electric fuel injectors and an advanced diesel particulate filter system to deliver strong performance while reducing particulate output by more than 90 percent and posting emissions numbers on par with gasoline engines.

High-tech, series sequential turbochargers provide improved response and better low-end performance. The unique system uses a small, electronically controlled, smart remote variable geometry turbocharger that comes on at low rpm to provide extra boost at take-off. As rpms increase, the larger fixed turbo joins the smaller turbo to boost power through the middle of the torque curve. As optimum speed is reached, the larger turbo takes over. Tests have shown zero-to-60 times of more than a second faster than the outgoing 6.0-liter.

Transmission choices include a six-speed manual with overdrive or a TorqShift™ five-speed automatic. The powertrains use a new unique mounting system that better isolates the powertrain and reduces vibration. Both two- and four-wheel-drive models will be available on the 2008 Super Duty