Ford Focus Estate, 2011

Ford Focus Estate, 2011

 

 

The next-generation Ford Focus Estate is the fifth vehicle to be revealed from Ford Motor Company's new global C-segment platform that will underpin at least ten vehicles around the world and account for two million units of annual production by 2012.
Revealed so far are the new Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX models at Frankfurt 2009, the next-generation Ford Focus 4-door and 5-door cars at the 2010 North American International Auto Show, and now the Estate at Geneva.

At Geneva, Ford is also confirming that a global performance vehicle will be developed as part of the next-generation Ford Focus range, and that it will be powered by a version of the 4-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine family.

Ford Focus Estate Targets Major Customer Base
The attractive next-generation Ford Focus Estate is a crucial model for the European market in particular, as around one third of all Focus customers choose this bodystyle. In some markets, such as Italy and Germany, the estate derivative represents more than half of all Ford Focus cars sold.

With its rakish appearance, the new Ford Focus Estate also makes a design statement and provides the ideal balance of dynamic looks and functional practicality. Full-length integrated roof rails enhance the estate's attractive kinetic design, while the tailgate has a self-closing function and neatly incorporates a compact roof spoiler.
Overall, the C-car segment in Europe remains relatively stable and accounts for around a third of total car sales with roughly five million C-cars sold annually. Although many premium manufacturers have also moved into the segment in recent years, it is among the volume makers that the competition is most fierce.

The market has seen significant fragmentation in the last decade thanks to the development of new bodystyle derivatives beyond the traditional four-door sedan, five-door hatchback and estate models.

By 2012, six bodystyles will cover 85 per cent of customer requirements in the segment in Europe - the four-door sedan, the five-door hatch, the estate, the five-passenger MAV, seven-passenger MAV and the small SUV.
While the Ford Focus Estate will initially launch only in Europe, it has been designed to share the wide range of technologies, fuel efficient powertrains, great driving quality and high levels of craftsmanship that all of Ford's new global C-cars will deliver.

The Ford Focus Estate debuts in the same vibrant Candy Red body colour which was first shown to great acclaim on the new Ford Focus five-door model unveiled at the North American International Motor Show in Detroit.

Ford Focus Estate, 2011

Ford Focus Estate, 2011

 

 

The next-generation Ford Focus Estate is the fifth vehicle to be revealed from Ford Motor Company's new global C-segment platform that will underpin at least ten vehicles around the world and account for two million units of annual production by 2012.
Revealed so far are the new Ford C-MAX and Grand C-MAX models at Frankfurt 2009, the next-generation Ford Focus 4-door and 5-door cars at the 2010 North American International Auto Show, and now the Estate at Geneva.

At Geneva, Ford is also confirming that a global performance vehicle will be developed as part of the next-generation Ford Focus range, and that it will be powered by a version of the 4-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine family.

Ford Focus Estate Targets Major Customer Base
The attractive next-generation Ford Focus Estate is a crucial model for the European market in particular, as around one third of all Focus customers choose this bodystyle. In some markets, such as Italy and Germany, the estate derivative represents more than half of all Ford Focus cars sold.

With its rakish appearance, the new Ford Focus Estate also makes a design statement and provides the ideal balance of dynamic looks and functional practicality. Full-length integrated roof rails enhance the estate's attractive kinetic design, while the tailgate has a self-closing function and neatly incorporates a compact roof spoiler.
Overall, the C-car segment in Europe remains relatively stable and accounts for around a third of total car sales with roughly five million C-cars sold annually. Although many premium manufacturers have also moved into the segment in recent years, it is among the volume makers that the competition is most fierce.

The market has seen significant fragmentation in the last decade thanks to the development of new bodystyle derivatives beyond the traditional four-door sedan, five-door hatchback and estate models.

By 2012, six bodystyles will cover 85 per cent of customer requirements in the segment in Europe - the four-door sedan, the five-door hatch, the estate, the five-passenger MAV, seven-passenger MAV and the small SUV.
While the Ford Focus Estate will initially launch only in Europe, it has been designed to share the wide range of technologies, fuel efficient powertrains, great driving quality and high levels of craftsmanship that all of Ford's new global C-cars will deliver.

The Ford Focus Estate debuts in the same vibrant Candy Red body colour which was first shown to great acclaim on the new Ford Focus five-door model unveiled at the North American International Motor Show in Detroit.

Ford Fiesta, 2011

Ford Fiesta, 2011

 

 

The Ford Fiesta is the next milestone under the ONE Ford plan to design and develop vehicles that meet the differing needs, wants and expectations of customers around the world. More than 500,000 Fiestas have already sold to customers in Europe and Asia.

Kinetics and aesthetics
Kinetic design imparts a sense of movement - even while standing still - harmonizing character elements to reflect global Ford identity, enabling Ford Fiesta to project its own air of confidence, style and individuality. Fiesta targets a youthful "design progressive" mind-set, a consumer group that values style and diversity as worthy assets.

Up front, Ford Fiesta sports the global Ford face, centering the Blue Oval badge on the grille over the signature inverted trapezoid lower grille opening. These subtle cues engender familiarity across the portfolio, providing aesthetic linkage between the distinctive new Ford Taurus, the fuel-efficient midsize Fusion and the bold Fiesta.

Adding eyes to the Ford Fiesta face are sweeping, elongated headlamps that frame and connect the hood to muscular, sculpted front fenders. Available in sporty five-door hatchback or four-door sedan body styles, Ford Fiesta provides ample space for occupants and their gear.
The Ford Fiesta design is further enhanced with a choice of nine vivid new colors. From Bright Magenta through Lime Squeeze to Blue Flame, Fiesta's broad color palette - more available colors than any other segment competitors - instills vibrant individuality.

Inside Ford Fiesta
Ford Fiesta is as dramatic on the inside as it is on the outside. Boldly sculpted surfaces, contrasting colors and comfortable, supportive materials make the interior as individual as the driver.

The instrument panel centerstack - focal point of the new Fiesta interior - was designed to feel as useful and familiar as the keypad on a mobile phone.

Soft, sculptured surfaces and the centerstack layout provide the Ford Fiesta with a sense of harmony. Intuitive switchgear placement, comfort zone seating and available ambient lighting allow a driver to maximize the mood with seven complementary colors - switchable among three levels of intensity - for interior accent lighting.

Fun, with fuel efficiency
Ford Fiesta's flowing sculpted hood covers a 1.6-liter DOHC I-4 engine with an estimated 119 horsepower and 109 ft.-lbs. of torque. Spirited performance and fuel-efficient economy are signature attributes with the Ford Fiesta expected to deliver best-in-class fuel economy at 40 mpg.

Ford Fiesta's advanced 1.6-liter engine features Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) allowing the engine to be downsized for fuel economy while continuously optimizing camshaft phasing for throttle response, performance and flexibility.
Big results from a small package are possible with several new technologies in this new global engine, including an advanced new front end accessory drive (FEAD) belt with stretchy dynamics to improve the engine's thermal dynamics. The elasticity in this new drive belt eliminates the need for a belt tensioner and contributes to overall fuel economy.

Ford Fiesta features a standard five-speed manual transaxle with gear ratios selected to offer spirited off-the-line performance and exceptional fuel economy for drivers who desire three pedals and a stick shift to maximize driving experience.
Specially tuned front struts, bushings, dampers, stabilizer bars and a rear twist-beam axle keep Ford Fiesta sure-footed and firmly planted. Sporty, European driving dynamics prevail.

Automatically game-changing
An available all-new North American industry-exclusive PowerShift six-speed automatic transmission combines the responsive performance and fuel economy of a manual transmission with the convenience of a traditional automatic in one advanced, dual dry-clutch package.

Twin internal clutches keep the PowerShift in constant mesh, always optimizing for maximum responsiveness or fuel efficiency, depending on input received from the driver's foot on the accelerator pedal.
This "dry" transmission operates with sealed internal lubrication, reducing internal friction and adding to Ford Fiesta fuel economy. The lack of pumps and hoses reduces under-hood complexity, saves weight and also contributes to fuel efficiency.
PowerShift has been proven in Ford's European market and will redefine North American small car segment expectations for responsive shifting and fuel efficiency.

Power steering conserves fuel
For confidence-inspiring on-road dynamics, Ford Fiesta features Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) which reduces complexity while saving weight and fuel. This advanced system is speed-sensitive - providing optimized assist based on speed, cornering forces and acceleration or deceleration.
The Ford is aggressively moving to EPAS across its product lineup. The system already is available in several Ford, Lincoln and Mercury nameplates, and by 2013 nearly 90 percent of Ford's lineup will offer this fuel saving technology.

EPAS also includes Pull-Drift Compensation to help Ford Fiesta track true regardless of road crown or side wind conditions. In addition, active nibble control helps detect and compensate for tire balance irregularity. Both features - enabled by EPAS - are class-exclusives.

Ford Fiesta, 2011

Ford Fiesta, 2011

 

 

The Ford Fiesta is the next milestone under the ONE Ford plan to design and develop vehicles that meet the differing needs, wants and expectations of customers around the world. More than 500,000 Fiestas have already sold to customers in Europe and Asia.

Kinetics and aesthetics
Kinetic design imparts a sense of movement - even while standing still - harmonizing character elements to reflect global Ford identity, enabling Ford Fiesta to project its own air of confidence, style and individuality. Fiesta targets a youthful "design progressive" mind-set, a consumer group that values style and diversity as worthy assets.

Up front, Ford Fiesta sports the global Ford face, centering the Blue Oval badge on the grille over the signature inverted trapezoid lower grille opening. These subtle cues engender familiarity across the portfolio, providing aesthetic linkage between the distinctive new Ford Taurus, the fuel-efficient midsize Fusion and the bold Fiesta.

Adding eyes to the Ford Fiesta face are sweeping, elongated headlamps that frame and connect the hood to muscular, sculpted front fenders. Available in sporty five-door hatchback or four-door sedan body styles, Ford Fiesta provides ample space for occupants and their gear.
The Ford Fiesta design is further enhanced with a choice of nine vivid new colors. From Bright Magenta through Lime Squeeze to Blue Flame, Fiesta's broad color palette - more available colors than any other segment competitors - instills vibrant individuality.

Inside Ford Fiesta
Ford Fiesta is as dramatic on the inside as it is on the outside. Boldly sculpted surfaces, contrasting colors and comfortable, supportive materials make the interior as individual as the driver.

The instrument panel centerstack - focal point of the new Fiesta interior - was designed to feel as useful and familiar as the keypad on a mobile phone.

Soft, sculptured surfaces and the centerstack layout provide the Ford Fiesta with a sense of harmony. Intuitive switchgear placement, comfort zone seating and available ambient lighting allow a driver to maximize the mood with seven complementary colors - switchable among three levels of intensity - for interior accent lighting.

Fun, with fuel efficiency
Ford Fiesta's flowing sculpted hood covers a 1.6-liter DOHC I-4 engine with an estimated 119 horsepower and 109 ft.-lbs. of torque. Spirited performance and fuel-efficient economy are signature attributes with the Ford Fiesta expected to deliver best-in-class fuel economy at 40 mpg.

Ford Fiesta's advanced 1.6-liter engine features Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) allowing the engine to be downsized for fuel economy while continuously optimizing camshaft phasing for throttle response, performance and flexibility.
Big results from a small package are possible with several new technologies in this new global engine, including an advanced new front end accessory drive (FEAD) belt with stretchy dynamics to improve the engine's thermal dynamics. The elasticity in this new drive belt eliminates the need for a belt tensioner and contributes to overall fuel economy.

Ford Fiesta features a standard five-speed manual transaxle with gear ratios selected to offer spirited off-the-line performance and exceptional fuel economy for drivers who desire three pedals and a stick shift to maximize driving experience.
Specially tuned front struts, bushings, dampers, stabilizer bars and a rear twist-beam axle keep Ford Fiesta sure-footed and firmly planted. Sporty, European driving dynamics prevail.

Automatically game-changing
An available all-new North American industry-exclusive PowerShift six-speed automatic transmission combines the responsive performance and fuel economy of a manual transmission with the convenience of a traditional automatic in one advanced, dual dry-clutch package.

Twin internal clutches keep the PowerShift in constant mesh, always optimizing for maximum responsiveness or fuel efficiency, depending on input received from the driver's foot on the accelerator pedal.
This "dry" transmission operates with sealed internal lubrication, reducing internal friction and adding to Ford Fiesta fuel economy. The lack of pumps and hoses reduces under-hood complexity, saves weight and also contributes to fuel efficiency.
PowerShift has been proven in Ford's European market and will redefine North American small car segment expectations for responsive shifting and fuel efficiency.

Power steering conserves fuel
For confidence-inspiring on-road dynamics, Ford Fiesta features Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) which reduces complexity while saving weight and fuel. This advanced system is speed-sensitive - providing optimized assist based on speed, cornering forces and acceleration or deceleration.
The Ford is aggressively moving to EPAS across its product lineup. The system already is available in several Ford, Lincoln and Mercury nameplates, and by 2013 nearly 90 percent of Ford's lineup will offer this fuel saving technology.

EPAS also includes Pull-Drift Compensation to help Ford Fiesta track true regardless of road crown or side wind conditions. In addition, active nibble control helps detect and compensate for tire balance irregularity. Both features - enabled by EPAS - are class-exclusives.

Infiniti M, 2011

Infiniti M, 2011

 

 

With the Infiniti M a new style of performance saloon - brimming with passion, craftsmanship and driver appeal - comes to Europe in 2010 as the world's newest luxury automotive brand Infiniti faces up to the traditional executive car hierarchy for the first time. Power, performance and technology all come together with signature Infiniti sophistication in the all-new Infiniti M Line which makes its official public debut in the USA, prior to European sales starting September 2010.

Featuring industry-first features, advanced Safety Shield technology and displaying Infiniti's unswerving commitment to passionate design and a rewarding drive, Infiniti's latest example of Inspired Performance will be the first Infiniti M to be available in all of Infiniti's 34 world markets - including Western Europe.

A more exclusive alternative to the traditional stalwarts of the executive class, such as the BMW 5-series and Mercedes E-Class, the Infiniti M Line goes on sale in European showrooms from September 2010 with petrol and diesel V6 power options, while an innovative petrol-electric hybrid is due to join the range in Europe in 2011.

The Infiniti M Line takes Infiniti's saloon range in Europe - which also includes the Infiniti G37 - to a higher new level, inside, outside and on the road, too. The Infiniti M combines rear-wheel-drive poise with impeccable luxury credentials in a 4945mm-long saloon with space to spare inside the best designed and finished cabin that Infiniti has ever offered. As flagship saloon for the brand, the Infiniti M Line also revels in the uniqueness that is Infiniti, from the flowing lines of the Essence concept car-inspired profile and the integrity of the natural materials used, to the pledge of an utterly hassle-free ownership experience.

Infiniti's most technologically advanced and beautiful saloon yet, the third-generation Infiniti M will bring with it to Europe its unimpeachable reputation for quality among American luxury car-buyers. Every Infiniti M model will also arrive designed and equipped to succeed in some of the world's toughest executive car markets, blending qualities that have made it a popular car in the US with the high-performance abilities needed to compete on European roads.

The new Infiniti M Line has been able to call on key Infiniti strengths in order to satisfy more demanding drivers. These include lightweight componentry, adaptive technology, race-bred engine design, sophisticated chassis design with almost perfect weight distribution and proven double-wishbone suspension with the availability in some models of Infiniti's acclaimed sports handling technology, 4-Wheel Active Steering (4WAS). To the benefit of looks, ride and cabin room, the M also benefits from one of the longest wheelbases in the class.

The new Infiniti M has its first outing - in the metal - at an unveiling in Beverly Hills, California, prior to US sales commencing in the spring of 2010. An earlier debut, in August this year, was as a "virtual" car created in 3D by video mapping - presaging a trend for "firsts" that the new Infiniti M Line is well placed to expand upon.

The body
The M's design is signature Infiniti, its subtle curves and complex surfacing endowing it with an emotional draw that goes beyond the colder, more austere class norm. Its deeply sculpted door surfaces and front bumper section add distinction and a sense of both aggression and intrigue. The body crease below the glasshouse is the clearest of many design cues picked up from Essence, the stunning Infiniti concept car that made its debut at the Geneva Auto Show early in 2009.

A look inside
The new Infiniti M has an interior every bit as carefully crafted as its exterior. The result of extensive research by engineers and designers into every aspect of the cabin, from the shape of the switches to the softness of the textures, the aim was to create Infiniti's best saloon car interior ever, with human warmth and an outstanding level of luxury appointments. And all with that most important of Infiniti traits: a clear focus on the driver.

Mission accomplished then. The Infiniti M cabin's wow factor begins as soon as a door is opened: there can be no missing the perception of quality in everything that is seen, touched and felt - right down to the smallest details. Combining vibrant, Japanese-influenced design and luxury materials, it is an immediately alluring, sensual place, as well as notably spacious. The M's wheelbase, at 2900mm, is longer than that of most competitors and this shows inside where there is plenty of room for five adults.

Blind Sport Intervention (BSI)
The latest in a list of world-first safety features from Infiniti, BSI takes blind-spot technology to another level by introducing an element of side collision protection. As well as giving the driver both visual and audible warnings of another vehicle in the blind-spot area which is detected by using radar, BSI intervenes if the driver ignores the warnings and attempts to steer into the other vehicle's path. The intervention is in the form of a directional adjustment, executed automatically. This is achieved by selective braking on one side of the car to create a "yaw" effect that eases the vehicle back into its original lane.

Active Noise Control (ANC)
By identifying undesirable sounds in the cabin and then playing back through the speakers sound waves of opposite phase, the original noises are cancelled out, making the M's interior a quieter, more restful place to be. The system is aimed at reducing undesirable low-frequency engine sounds only. Infiniti M models with the 16-speaker Bose® Studio Surround® sound system are equipped with Bose Engine Harmonic Cancellation (EHC) which is even more effective at controlling unwanted noises.

Infiniti Drive
The M's throttle sensitivity and transmission mapping are fine tuned according to which of four driver-selectable modes is engaged via a switch positioned behind the gear lever: Standard, Eco, Sport and Snow. The Eco mode utilizes green and yellow lights on the instrument panel to provide feedback on fuel efficiency. Eco mode also introduces a new Infiniti concept known as the Eco Pedal. If driving too aggressively, the driver will feel the accelerator pedal "push back" to indicate fuel is being wasted. Sport mode changes the automatic shift points and enhances throttle response for increased performance. It will also adjust the 4WAS for a nimbler feel and raise the ESP intervention level.

Forest Air
Infiniti believes the quality of the air within a car's cabin has a direct bearing on the well-being of driver and passengers. Which is why it developed Forest Air, Infiniti's most advanced climate control system that makes its debut in the Infiniti M Line (depending on model). The system offers unrivalled temperature, humidity and pollution control while re-creating the gentle breezes and subtle scents of an environment known to promote alertness and relieve stress: the forest.

ESP with Dynamic Cornering Enhancement
The Infiniti M Line benefits from Infiniti's latest electronic stability program which optimizes control of braking and engine torque on individual wheels to achieve smoother and more stable cornering. The system can apply selective braking to help create increased steering response when rapid changes of direction are required, such as in S bends or fast lane-change manoeuvres.

Safety Shield
For the 2011-model year M Line, Infiniti's 360-degree "bubble of protection" around the car known as the Safety Shield becomes more complete than ever. New features such as Blind Spot Intervention and Dynamic Cornering Enhancement are fully integrated into existing Safety Shield technology such as Intelligent Cruise Control (full speed range), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Distance Control Assist (DCA), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts.

Infiniti M, 2011

Infiniti M, 2011

 

 

With the Infiniti M a new style of performance saloon - brimming with passion, craftsmanship and driver appeal - comes to Europe in 2010 as the world's newest luxury automotive brand Infiniti faces up to the traditional executive car hierarchy for the first time. Power, performance and technology all come together with signature Infiniti sophistication in the all-new Infiniti M Line which makes its official public debut in the USA, prior to European sales starting September 2010.

Featuring industry-first features, advanced Safety Shield technology and displaying Infiniti's unswerving commitment to passionate design and a rewarding drive, Infiniti's latest example of Inspired Performance will be the first Infiniti M to be available in all of Infiniti's 34 world markets - including Western Europe.

A more exclusive alternative to the traditional stalwarts of the executive class, such as the BMW 5-series and Mercedes E-Class, the Infiniti M Line goes on sale in European showrooms from September 2010 with petrol and diesel V6 power options, while an innovative petrol-electric hybrid is due to join the range in Europe in 2011.

The Infiniti M Line takes Infiniti's saloon range in Europe - which also includes the Infiniti G37 - to a higher new level, inside, outside and on the road, too. The Infiniti M combines rear-wheel-drive poise with impeccable luxury credentials in a 4945mm-long saloon with space to spare inside the best designed and finished cabin that Infiniti has ever offered. As flagship saloon for the brand, the Infiniti M Line also revels in the uniqueness that is Infiniti, from the flowing lines of the Essence concept car-inspired profile and the integrity of the natural materials used, to the pledge of an utterly hassle-free ownership experience.

Infiniti's most technologically advanced and beautiful saloon yet, the third-generation Infiniti M will bring with it to Europe its unimpeachable reputation for quality among American luxury car-buyers. Every Infiniti M model will also arrive designed and equipped to succeed in some of the world's toughest executive car markets, blending qualities that have made it a popular car in the US with the high-performance abilities needed to compete on European roads.

The new Infiniti M Line has been able to call on key Infiniti strengths in order to satisfy more demanding drivers. These include lightweight componentry, adaptive technology, race-bred engine design, sophisticated chassis design with almost perfect weight distribution and proven double-wishbone suspension with the availability in some models of Infiniti's acclaimed sports handling technology, 4-Wheel Active Steering (4WAS). To the benefit of looks, ride and cabin room, the M also benefits from one of the longest wheelbases in the class.

The new Infiniti M has its first outing - in the metal - at an unveiling in Beverly Hills, California, prior to US sales commencing in the spring of 2010. An earlier debut, in August this year, was as a "virtual" car created in 3D by video mapping - presaging a trend for "firsts" that the new Infiniti M Line is well placed to expand upon.

The body
The M's design is signature Infiniti, its subtle curves and complex surfacing endowing it with an emotional draw that goes beyond the colder, more austere class norm. Its deeply sculpted door surfaces and front bumper section add distinction and a sense of both aggression and intrigue. The body crease below the glasshouse is the clearest of many design cues picked up from Essence, the stunning Infiniti concept car that made its debut at the Geneva Auto Show early in 2009.

A look inside
The new Infiniti M has an interior every bit as carefully crafted as its exterior. The result of extensive research by engineers and designers into every aspect of the cabin, from the shape of the switches to the softness of the textures, the aim was to create Infiniti's best saloon car interior ever, with human warmth and an outstanding level of luxury appointments. And all with that most important of Infiniti traits: a clear focus on the driver.

Mission accomplished then. The Infiniti M cabin's wow factor begins as soon as a door is opened: there can be no missing the perception of quality in everything that is seen, touched and felt - right down to the smallest details. Combining vibrant, Japanese-influenced design and luxury materials, it is an immediately alluring, sensual place, as well as notably spacious. The M's wheelbase, at 2900mm, is longer than that of most competitors and this shows inside where there is plenty of room for five adults.

Blind Sport Intervention (BSI)
The latest in a list of world-first safety features from Infiniti, BSI takes blind-spot technology to another level by introducing an element of side collision protection. As well as giving the driver both visual and audible warnings of another vehicle in the blind-spot area which is detected by using radar, BSI intervenes if the driver ignores the warnings and attempts to steer into the other vehicle's path. The intervention is in the form of a directional adjustment, executed automatically. This is achieved by selective braking on one side of the car to create a "yaw" effect that eases the vehicle back into its original lane.

Active Noise Control (ANC)
By identifying undesirable sounds in the cabin and then playing back through the speakers sound waves of opposite phase, the original noises are cancelled out, making the M's interior a quieter, more restful place to be. The system is aimed at reducing undesirable low-frequency engine sounds only. Infiniti M models with the 16-speaker Bose® Studio Surround® sound system are equipped with Bose Engine Harmonic Cancellation (EHC) which is even more effective at controlling unwanted noises.

Infiniti Drive
The M's throttle sensitivity and transmission mapping are fine tuned according to which of four driver-selectable modes is engaged via a switch positioned behind the gear lever: Standard, Eco, Sport and Snow. The Eco mode utilizes green and yellow lights on the instrument panel to provide feedback on fuel efficiency. Eco mode also introduces a new Infiniti concept known as the Eco Pedal. If driving too aggressively, the driver will feel the accelerator pedal "push back" to indicate fuel is being wasted. Sport mode changes the automatic shift points and enhances throttle response for increased performance. It will also adjust the 4WAS for a nimbler feel and raise the ESP intervention level.

Forest Air
Infiniti believes the quality of the air within a car's cabin has a direct bearing on the well-being of driver and passengers. Which is why it developed Forest Air, Infiniti's most advanced climate control system that makes its debut in the Infiniti M Line (depending on model). The system offers unrivalled temperature, humidity and pollution control while re-creating the gentle breezes and subtle scents of an environment known to promote alertness and relieve stress: the forest.

ESP with Dynamic Cornering Enhancement
The Infiniti M Line benefits from Infiniti's latest electronic stability program which optimizes control of braking and engine torque on individual wheels to achieve smoother and more stable cornering. The system can apply selective braking to help create increased steering response when rapid changes of direction are required, such as in S bends or fast lane-change manoeuvres.

Safety Shield
For the 2011-model year M Line, Infiniti's 360-degree "bubble of protection" around the car known as the Safety Shield becomes more complete than ever. New features such as Blind Spot Intervention and Dynamic Cornering Enhancement are fully integrated into existing Safety Shield technology such as Intelligent Cruise Control (full speed range), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Distance Control Assist (DCA), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts.

Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible, 2011

Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible, 2011

 

 

 

The Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible further strengthens Bentley's supercar range, following the introduction of the Bentley Continental Supersports Coupé in 2009. The new Supersports Convertible, with the same 630PS (621bhp/463kW) twin-turbocharged W12 engine, is the fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley has ever built, offering the ultimate Bentley driving experience in the world's most dramatic convertible.

A highly focussed, pure Bentley driving experience
With 630PS (621bhp) and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque from its pioneering FlexFuel engine and new 'Quickshift' transmission, the Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible is the fastest drop-top Bentley has ever built. It accelerates from 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds) and, conditions permitting, can continue onto a top speed of 202mph (325km/h).

The increased power and torque are transmitted to the all-wheel drive system via an uprated and rapid six-speed Quickshift transmission, which more than halves shift times (to just 93 milliseconds) and maximises the new Convertible's enormous potential. The revised gearbox also has the ability to deliver double downshifts (sixth to fourth gear, for example) and improves acceleration across the entire gear range. To cope with the additional power and torque, the planetary gear set of the ZF transmission is also strengthened.

Positive torque during downshifts is achieved through engine and gearbox electronic controller interaction for extra throttle and fuel injection during the overrun. During transmission upshifts, fuel and ignition are cut momentarily to give faster mechanical shift times through torque reduction, also improving shift quality and durability.

Designing the 'extreme' Bentley convertible- where form follows function
The evolution of the Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible's design is very much a case of form following function, with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin. Key engineering-led design changes to the Supersports include:
    * Revised front air intakes and new bonnet vents to improve airflow and cooling
    * Flared rear wings to accommodate wider rear track
    * Discreet bootlid spoiler benefitting aerodynamic balance at high speeds

The increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated an additional 10 per cent airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. With extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamics techniques, Bentley's designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style, featuring large vertical intake apertures. Twin bonnet vents were added to ensure positive air extraction.

From the front, the radiator, lower grille and dual bonnet vents are finished in a striking Smoked Steel finish. Derived from an innovative technology normally used to apply a coating to luxury watches and specialised industrial tools, Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) is a complex and time-consuming process that involves vaporised metal being deposited onto the surface of, in this case, stainless steel.

Giving a darker, more solid appearance, it is the first use of a PVD finish on stainless steel in the car industry. In addition to the Smoked Steel finishes, a gloss black finish to the headlamp casings and rear lamp clusters gives the Bentley Continental Supersports convertible's distinctive face and muscular rear additional visual impact.

Restyled - and more aerodynamic - door mirrors match the exterior paint choice and the window and door surrounds replace polished stainless steel with a Smoked Steel finish to match the front grille. Eye-catching, black gloss Bentley-branded brake calipers act on the carbon ceramic brakes. Surrounding the brakes are the unique 20-inch, forged alloy wheels with Smoked Steel-finish which are exclusive to Supersports models. Large diameter tailpipe trims round out the car's purposeful stance when viewed from the rear. Beneath the bonnet Supersports badges grace the cover of the 630PS (621bhp) W12 engine.

The Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible has an electrically operated, three-layer fabric hood with advanced acoustic insulation to provide superb levels of refinement and comfort when raised. A choice of eight hood colours are available, including a new Dark Grey Metallic option, which is achieved by weaving a 'grey' acrylic fibre with a semi-transparent 'metallic effect' fibre in a twill weave construction to create a directional colour effect.

Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible, 2011

Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible, 2011

 

 

 

The Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible further strengthens Bentley's supercar range, following the introduction of the Bentley Continental Supersports Coupé in 2009. The new Supersports Convertible, with the same 630PS (621bhp/463kW) twin-turbocharged W12 engine, is the fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley has ever built, offering the ultimate Bentley driving experience in the world's most dramatic convertible.

A highly focussed, pure Bentley driving experience
With 630PS (621bhp) and 800Nm (590lb ft) of torque from its pioneering FlexFuel engine and new 'Quickshift' transmission, the Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible is the fastest drop-top Bentley has ever built. It accelerates from 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.2 seconds) and, conditions permitting, can continue onto a top speed of 202mph (325km/h).

The increased power and torque are transmitted to the all-wheel drive system via an uprated and rapid six-speed Quickshift transmission, which more than halves shift times (to just 93 milliseconds) and maximises the new Convertible's enormous potential. The revised gearbox also has the ability to deliver double downshifts (sixth to fourth gear, for example) and improves acceleration across the entire gear range. To cope with the additional power and torque, the planetary gear set of the ZF transmission is also strengthened.

Positive torque during downshifts is achieved through engine and gearbox electronic controller interaction for extra throttle and fuel injection during the overrun. During transmission upshifts, fuel and ignition are cut momentarily to give faster mechanical shift times through torque reduction, also improving shift quality and durability.

Designing the 'extreme' Bentley convertible- where form follows function
The evolution of the Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible's design is very much a case of form following function, with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin. Key engineering-led design changes to the Supersports include:
    * Revised front air intakes and new bonnet vents to improve airflow and cooling
    * Flared rear wings to accommodate wider rear track
    * Discreet bootlid spoiler benefitting aerodynamic balance at high speeds

The increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated an additional 10 per cent airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. With extensive use of Computational Fluid Dynamics techniques, Bentley's designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style, featuring large vertical intake apertures. Twin bonnet vents were added to ensure positive air extraction.

From the front, the radiator, lower grille and dual bonnet vents are finished in a striking Smoked Steel finish. Derived from an innovative technology normally used to apply a coating to luxury watches and specialised industrial tools, Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) is a complex and time-consuming process that involves vaporised metal being deposited onto the surface of, in this case, stainless steel.

Giving a darker, more solid appearance, it is the first use of a PVD finish on stainless steel in the car industry. In addition to the Smoked Steel finishes, a gloss black finish to the headlamp casings and rear lamp clusters gives the Bentley Continental Supersports convertible's distinctive face and muscular rear additional visual impact.

Restyled - and more aerodynamic - door mirrors match the exterior paint choice and the window and door surrounds replace polished stainless steel with a Smoked Steel finish to match the front grille. Eye-catching, black gloss Bentley-branded brake calipers act on the carbon ceramic brakes. Surrounding the brakes are the unique 20-inch, forged alloy wheels with Smoked Steel-finish which are exclusive to Supersports models. Large diameter tailpipe trims round out the car's purposeful stance when viewed from the rear. Beneath the bonnet Supersports badges grace the cover of the 630PS (621bhp) W12 engine.

The Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible has an electrically operated, three-layer fabric hood with advanced acoustic insulation to provide superb levels of refinement and comfort when raised. A choice of eight hood colours are available, including a new Dark Grey Metallic option, which is achieved by weaving a 'grey' acrylic fibre with a semi-transparent 'metallic effect' fibre in a twill weave construction to create a directional colour effect.

Bentley Continental Supersports, 2010

Bentley Continental Supersports, 2010

 

 

The Bentley Continental Supersports is the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. It is the extreme Bentley, a muscular two-seater that delivers supercar performance and a highly focused driving experience. The Bentley Continental Supersports is also the first Bentley capable of running on both petrol (gasoline) and biofuel, pioneering the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector. This represents stage one of the company's commitment to make its complete model range compatible with renewable fuels by 2012. Available worldwide from autumn 2009, the Bentley Continental Supersports will be FlexFuel compatible in the majority of markets from launch with North American cars offering the capability by summer 2010, following regulatory approval.

The Bentley Continental Supersports began as an 'under the radar' project exploring the possibilities of weight reduction on the Bentley Continental GT but with more power and torque. A largely experimental process crystallised over a period of 24 months into an official new car programme, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of Bentley engineers and designers. The results are dramatic. With 630PS (621 bhp) and new 'Quickshift' transmission that halves shift times, the Bentley Continental Supersports sets new performance benchmarks for Bentley. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds) with a top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h).

The supercar performance is complemented by an array of chassis enhancements including retuned steering and suspension, utilising lighter weight components, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars. Agility is further sharpened by the 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system, a wider rear track, bespoke lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique electronic stability programme. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard fitment, benefiting steering response, grip and ride comfort, while saving weight. Overall, the engineering team have achieved a weight reduction of 110 kg (243 lb) compared with the Bentley Continental GT Speed.

The evolution of the Bentley Continental Supersports' design is very much a case of 'form following function' with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin. For example, the increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated additional airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. Bentley's designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style that features large vertical intake apertures and twin bonnet vents. Similarly, new flared rear wings that accommodate the 50 mm (2 inches) wider rear track are designed to emphasise the powerful stance of this ultra-high performance coupe. The resultant Supersports style combines the looks of the iconic Continental GT with a new and distinctive appearance that reflects its more extreme character.

The Bentley Continental Supersports is further distinguished from its Continental coupe stable mates by a unique dark-smoked steel finish to all exterior 'brightware', including front grilles, lamp bezels, window surrounds and wheels. A complex 'Physical Vapour Deposition' process is applied to all stainless steel components to give a lustrous and highly durable finish. A car industry first, this process is normally used as a coating on industrial tools, watches and even hip replacement joints.

Fully embracing the extreme spirit of the Supersports, Bentley's interior designers have created a unique ambience. The cockpit represents a dramatic reinterpretation of Bentley interior design in which carbon fibre and Alcantara not only convey a sporting and contemporary style but also reduce weight. The Bentley Continental Supersports is a strict two-seater featuring all-new lightweight sports seats with carbon fibre clamshell rear panels. In the rear compartment, the seats are replaced by a stowage deck with a carbon fibre luggage retaining beam. The new interior also provides a showcase for the skills of Bentley's craftsmen and women at the company's factory in Crewe, England. Signature premium grade leather and brightware are complemented by carbon fibre panels, replacing traditional wood veneers.

The Bentley Continental Supersports is capable of running on either petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two. E85 biofuel can offer a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO2 emissions on a 'well-to-wheel' basis. Well-to-wheel is a measurement of a fuel's net CO2 contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions. It is a way of quantifying how much CO2 a fuel emits from its growth or extraction (well) to its combustion or deployment (wheel). It includes refinement, distillation and transport of the fuel. The fuel supply system detects the blending ratio of the fuel in the tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel. The result is seamless power delivery in the Bentley tradition.

The 'Supersports' name is inspired by the original two-seater 3-litre Supersports model introduced in 1925, itself an evolution of the 3-litre Speed. The lightweight, 85 bhp Supersports was the first production Bentley to reach 100 mph and was also renowned for the application of Le Mans-winning race technology.

Bentley Continental Supersports, 2010

Bentley Continental Supersports, 2010

 

 

The Bentley Continental Supersports is the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. It is the extreme Bentley, a muscular two-seater that delivers supercar performance and a highly focused driving experience. The Bentley Continental Supersports is also the first Bentley capable of running on both petrol (gasoline) and biofuel, pioneering the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector. This represents stage one of the company's commitment to make its complete model range compatible with renewable fuels by 2012. Available worldwide from autumn 2009, the Bentley Continental Supersports will be FlexFuel compatible in the majority of markets from launch with North American cars offering the capability by summer 2010, following regulatory approval.

The Bentley Continental Supersports began as an 'under the radar' project exploring the possibilities of weight reduction on the Bentley Continental GT but with more power and torque. A largely experimental process crystallised over a period of 24 months into an official new car programme, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of Bentley engineers and designers. The results are dramatic. With 630PS (621 bhp) and new 'Quickshift' transmission that halves shift times, the Bentley Continental Supersports sets new performance benchmarks for Bentley. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds) with a top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h).

The supercar performance is complemented by an array of chassis enhancements including retuned steering and suspension, utilising lighter weight components, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars. Agility is further sharpened by the 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system, a wider rear track, bespoke lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique electronic stability programme. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard fitment, benefiting steering response, grip and ride comfort, while saving weight. Overall, the engineering team have achieved a weight reduction of 110 kg (243 lb) compared with the Bentley Continental GT Speed.

The evolution of the Bentley Continental Supersports' design is very much a case of 'form following function' with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin. For example, the increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated additional airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. Bentley's designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style that features large vertical intake apertures and twin bonnet vents. Similarly, new flared rear wings that accommodate the 50 mm (2 inches) wider rear track are designed to emphasise the powerful stance of this ultra-high performance coupe. The resultant Supersports style combines the looks of the iconic Continental GT with a new and distinctive appearance that reflects its more extreme character.

The Bentley Continental Supersports is further distinguished from its Continental coupe stable mates by a unique dark-smoked steel finish to all exterior 'brightware', including front grilles, lamp bezels, window surrounds and wheels. A complex 'Physical Vapour Deposition' process is applied to all stainless steel components to give a lustrous and highly durable finish. A car industry first, this process is normally used as a coating on industrial tools, watches and even hip replacement joints.

Fully embracing the extreme spirit of the Supersports, Bentley's interior designers have created a unique ambience. The cockpit represents a dramatic reinterpretation of Bentley interior design in which carbon fibre and Alcantara not only convey a sporting and contemporary style but also reduce weight. The Bentley Continental Supersports is a strict two-seater featuring all-new lightweight sports seats with carbon fibre clamshell rear panels. In the rear compartment, the seats are replaced by a stowage deck with a carbon fibre luggage retaining beam. The new interior also provides a showcase for the skills of Bentley's craftsmen and women at the company's factory in Crewe, England. Signature premium grade leather and brightware are complemented by carbon fibre panels, replacing traditional wood veneers.

The Bentley Continental Supersports is capable of running on either petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two. E85 biofuel can offer a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO2 emissions on a 'well-to-wheel' basis. Well-to-wheel is a measurement of a fuel's net CO2 contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions. It is a way of quantifying how much CO2 a fuel emits from its growth or extraction (well) to its combustion or deployment (wheel). It includes refinement, distillation and transport of the fuel. The fuel supply system detects the blending ratio of the fuel in the tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel. The result is seamless power delivery in the Bentley tradition.

The 'Supersports' name is inspired by the original two-seater 3-litre Supersports model introduced in 1925, itself an evolution of the 3-litre Speed. The lightweight, 85 bhp Supersports was the first production Bentley to reach 100 mph and was also renowned for the application of Le Mans-winning race technology.