auto-v magazine january 2015 issue

TEST DRIVE: NISSAN SKYLINE GT-R • FERRARI 458 ITALIA • CADILLAC ATS COUPE • YUKON SLEISSUE#001-01

THE BEST OR NOTHING!

THE 2016 S600MERCEDES-MAYBACH

NISSAN LEAFVOLVO XC90

CADILLAC ESCALADE ESVFERRARI FXX-KKAWASAKI H2-R

PLUS

ww

w.autovmagazine.com

issue #001-01

AUTO-V-CVR-001.indd All Pages 1/4/15 5:35 AM

RICHARD LUCAS CHEVROLET1077 US HIGHWAY SOUTH1. AVENEL NJ 07001W W W . R I C H A R D L U C A S C H E V Y . C O M

DEALERCHEVROLET

CHEVY AD.indd 2 1/4/15 1:02 AM

http://www.richardlucaschevy.com/

2015 silverado1500 double cab 4wd

CHEVY AD.indd 3 1/4/15 1:02 AM

w w w . a u t o v m a g a z i n e . c o m

follow us:@autovmagazine.com

Chairman:marcus reyes

Co-founder/ creative director:damion marshall

media contributors:mercedes-benz

nissanchevrolet

ferraridodge

kia kawasaki

lexuscadillac

audivolvo

maseratichryslerand GMC.

Advertise with us . For information about advertising space in Auto-V Magazine

Contact us [email protected]

03 | www.autovmagazine.com

master-header-auto-v-magazine.indd 1 1/4/15 1:34 AM

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Visual-M-Media/523789204395631?ref=stream&hc_location=timeline

https://twitter.com/autovmagazine

http://instagram.com/autovmagazine

http://www.autovmagazine.com/

w w w . f l y b o y m a g a z i n e . c o m

www.autovmagazine.com | 04

flyboy magazine-ad.indd 1 1/4/15 1:34 AM

http://www.flyboymagazine.com/

LETTER FROM THE EDITORSWelcome to the first issue of Auto-V Magazine. One year ago Visual-M Media,

started out with the vision of becoming one of the best auto blogs on the web. Fast forward a few months later and we began working with some of the best car dealer-ships on the east coast. As our audience grew, we noticed that our auto section took on an identity of its own, which birthed the idea of Auto-V Magazine. This maga-zine is dedicated to providing our readers with unique and interesting automobiles from around the world. We encourage our readers to send us feedback and stories at anytime. We hope you enjoy whats to come from Auto-V Magazine.

Thank you

Marcus Reyes & Damion Marshall

AuthorsMarcus ReyesDamion Marshall

Media ContributorsMercedes-Benz, Nissan, Chevrolet, Ferrari, Dodge, Kia, Kawasaki, Lexus, Cadillac, Audi, Volvo, Maserati, Chrysler, GMC.

CompanyVisual-M Media Inc.www.visualmmg.com

Auto-V Magazinewww.automagazine.com

Contact [email protected] | WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Authors Page.indd 2 1/4/15 1:22 AM

http://www.autovmagazine.com/

www.visualmmg.com

117: 2016 Mercedes Maybach S600

163: Chevrolet Chaparral 2X Vison GT

205: AUDI PROLOGUE

CONTENTSfeatures

07: 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

17: 2015 Nissan Leaf

29: Ferrari FXX-K

33: 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat

39: 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat

43: 2016 Kia Sorento

53: 2015 Kawasaki Ninja H2-R

141: Lexus LF-C2 Concept

147: Audi RS 7 Concept

169: Volvo XC90

179: Maserati 2014 L.A. Show Concepts

185: 2015 Chrysler 300C & 300S

Auto ProfilePage 15: Chevy Suburban, GMC Yukon

Page 16: Cadillac Escalade ESV,

ATS Coupe 2.0

EventsPage 57: 2014 Connecticut Int. Auto

Show

AwardsPage 219: 2014 Car Of The Year Awards

Articles

WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM | 06

Authors Page.indd 3 1/4/15 1:28 AM

Corvette Performance Personalization At The SEMA Show 2014 The all-new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray was the most awarded car of the year including being named the 2014 North American Car of the Year. For 2015, the Corvette is even better, with the introduction of the supercharged Corvette Z06, an all-new eight-speed automatic, the Performance Data Recorder and OnStar with 4G LTE.

Chevrolet is showing two unique Corvettes at the SEMA Show this week – a 2015 Stingray styled in collaboration with KISS front man Paul Stanley and a vintage third-generation Corvette built with NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson that fea-tures the 6.2L Gen V LT1 engine from the 2015 Corvette Stingray. In addition,

2015CORVETTEZ06 STINGRAY

07 | WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

2015 corvette .indd 2 1/4/15 1:41 AM

Chevrolet is featuring a collection of concept parts based on the 2015 Corvette Z06.

“Corvette has always meant different things to different owners,” said Harlan Charles, Corvette product manager”.

“Whether it’s a new Stingray or a mid-year Sting Ray, some use their Corvette as a dedicated track car, others use it as a grand touring car and others use it as a daily driver. That range is on display at the SEMA Show this week, serving as the inspiration for owners looking to make their Corvette an even more personal sports car.”


2015 corvette .indd 3 1/4/15 1:41 AM

As the front man for one of the most successful rock groups in history, KISS’ Paul Stanley is an artist with an affinity for great style. He worked with Chevrolet design-ers to personalize a 2015 Corvette Stingray coupe, creating the perfect instrument that reflects Stanley’s creativity applied to America’s sports car. “This car is undeni-able in terms of its aesthetics,” said Paul Stanley. “And it is also a world-class piece of machinery.”

First, Stanley selected the exterior scheme, with a unique candy red hue offset with Midnight Glaze Silver paint treatment on the roof, rear hatch, spoiler, outside mir-rors and the front grille. He also helped select unique interior enhancements, includ-ing quilted parchment leather seats, along with additional parchment leather accents in the Jet Black cabin. There is dark red accent stitching throughout.

Stanley’s Stingray features the available Z51 Performance Package, which includes a dry-sump oiling system, electronic limited-slip differential, larger front brakes and a cooling package for the differential and transmission.

The car rolls on Chevrolet Accessories forged aluminum wheels – 19-inch front/20-inch rear – in Carbon Flash Metallic. They’re used with Michelin P245/35ZR19 tires in front and P285/30ZR20 tires in the rear. Power comes from the 6.2L Gen V LT1 engine, rated at 460 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque with the available perfor-mance exhaust system. The LT1 features direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management.


2015 corvette .indd 4 1/4/15 1:41 AM

Stanley also selected the Stingray’s new, available eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission, which delivers world-class shift times that rival the best dual-clutch designs – while also enabling EPA-estimated 29 mpg on the highway.

“It was great working with Paul Stanley, because of his vision and passion for design and automobiles,” said Jim Campbell, U.S. vice president, performance vehicles and motorsports.

NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson collaborated with Chevrolet to personalize a vintage 1971 Corvette with exterior and interior updates, and an all-new Gen V LT1 crate engine.

“This car not only has the look, but the power train is going to make it sound fast and responsive,” said Jimmie Johnson. “ And it’s a 1971 classic.”

The LT1 crate engine brings modern technology to resto-mod vehicles, including continuously variable valve timing and direct injection. It’s rated at 460 horsepower.


2015 corvette .indd 5 1/4/15 1:41 AM

The crate engine from Chevrolet Performance is offered in wet sump (part number The crate engine from Chevrolet Performance is offered in wet sump (part number 19328728) or dry sump (part number 19329997) versions. Chevrolet also offers the electronic controller and harness (part number 19303137) and a front-end accessory drive system (part number 19329990), to support engine integration.

Some custom fabrication by the Chevrolet build team was required to install it in the classic “C3” Corvette. It’s matched with a new Super Magnum six-speed manual transmission also offered by Chevrolet Performance for retro-fit installations. The LT1 crate engine is available now with a suggested retail price of $11,000 for the wet sump version and $11,250 for the dry sump. The controller/harness kit lists for $2,250 and the front-end accessory drive kit is priced at $725. They will be available in January 2015.

Johnson’s resto-mod Corvette also has an updated chassis, with adjustable coil-overs replacing the original front and rear suspension components, for more precise handling. The track-proven brakes from a C6 Corvette Z06 have also been adapted to the car, giving it exceptional stopping power.


2015 corvette .indd 6 1/4/15 1:41 AM

Along with the all-new powertrain, the classic Corvette features a custom hood vent inspired by the current Stingray, along with restyled front fender vents and 18-inch wheels that emulate the design of the 15-inch rally wheels originally offered in 1971.

Johnson selected a unique silver-blue exterior color, with After Midnight dark silver trim accents and Satin Dark Android graphic accents.

Inside, Johnson selected original-style bucket seats trimmed in black leather with suede inserts. He also selected a suede-wrapped, three-spoke steering wheel, as well as carbon fiber accents. Johnson’s signature is also featured on the floor console, door panels and seat backs. “Jimmie Johnson is an enthusiast who has restored sev-eral classic Chevrolets and he knew exactly what he wanted – classic design support-ed by modern performance,” said Campbell.


2015 corvette .indd 7 1/4/15 1:41 AM

Corvette Z06 concept parts for Stingray

The performance of the all-new, 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 establishes it as one of the most capable supercars on the market – and one of the few to achieve sub-3-sec-ond 0-60 performance and a sub-11-second quarter-mile time.

It accelerates from a rest to 60 mph in only 2.95 seconds when equipped with the all-new, available eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission - and achieves it in 3.2 seconds with the standard seven-speed manual transmission. A quarter-mile sprint takes just 10.95 seconds with the eight-speed automatic and 11.2 seconds with the seven-speed manual.

Chevrolet Performance is also showing a collection of aero, chassis and suspension concepts components from the Z06. They demonstrate the possibilities of how Sting-ray owners could apply factory-engineered components from the Z06 to make their car even more capable on the track. “We are looking forward to the feedback from SEMA members and Corvette enthusiasts around the world about their interest in these concept Z06 parts,” said Campbell.13 | WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

2015 corvette .indd 8 1/4/15 1:41 AM

The concept parts include:

• Z06 stabilizer bars, control arms and the Z06’s unique composite transverse leaf spring

• Unique Bilstein shocks, tuned to match the chassis components of the Z06

• Z06 front and rear brakes (steel rotors) – featuring Brembo aluminum six-pis-ton front calipers and four-piston rear calipers; and 14.6-inch-diameter front rotors and 14.4-inch rear rotors

• Z06 front and rear brakes (carbon ceramic rotors) – the brakes from the Z06’s available Z07 package include 15.5-inch carbon ceramic matrix front rotors and 15.3-inch carbon rear rotors

• Z06 front brake ducts

• Z06 600-watt radiator electric fan for superior cooling capability

• Z06 front grille, which offers 17-percent greater airflow than the grille on the Stingray with the Z51 package – and it includes inlets that match the Z06 front brake ducts

• Z06 rear transmission oil cooler – a larger cooler assembly that replaces the one used on the Stingray’s Z51 package for about 15-percent more cooling capacity

• Z06 front auxiliary transmission cooler that essentially doubles the overall cooling capacity

• Z06 rear quarter-panel vents that provide approximately 25-percent greater airflow than the Z51 vents at track speed

• Z06 carbon fiber torque tube that is about 13.2 pounds lighter than the Sting-ray’s torque tube

• Z06 drive shaft couplers that are designed to stand up to higher exhaust heat than the Stingray and Z51 couplers

• Z06 carbon fiber underbody braces are 17-percent lighter than the Stingray’s aluminum braces, while offering comparable stiffness

• Z06 high-wing rear spoiler with wicker, based on the available carbon fiber aero package.


2015 corvette .indd 9 1/4/15 1:41 AM

AUTO PROFILES

2015 GMC YUKON SLE

The 2015 GMC Yukon SLE does not offer everything that the Denali model has, but make no mistake this truck still has a lot to offer. We discuss the exterior design from front to back and put you in the driver seat to get a full 360 view of the interior. After taking the Yukon SLE on the road we wanted to show you how impressive this SUV is. Check out the full video on the channel. Click Here

2015 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN LT

The 2015 Chevy Suburban LT, really impressed us when we test drove it. For some the exterior design might take some getting used too, but it will eventually grow on you. For our Auto Profile we discussed the exterior design and interior, along with the test drive. Check out the full video on the channel. Click Here


Auto profile.indd 1 1/4/15 1:49 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDMIkgT6-e0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fFUaYnivGM

2015 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV

The 2015 Cadillac Escalade ESV is one of the most imperssive SUV’s in the automotive world today. There was so much to discuss from the headlight design, to the new security system and the instrument cluster high-resolution 12.3-inch digital driver information center(DIC). Check out the full video on our channel. Click Here

2015 CADILLAC ATS COUPE 2.0T

The 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe 2.0T should not be left out of the discussion when it comes to the other coupes on the road. The ATS Coupe impresses with its beautiful design inside and out, and has a lot of features that embraces the new technology in the 2015 Cadillac cars. Check out the full Auto Profile on our channel. Click Here


Auto profile.indd 2 1/4/15 1:49 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHvb15Kg_c0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNovZoMhpUc

2015 Nissan LEAF – Affordable, Sustainable Mobility

Nissan LEAF was introduced in December 2010, as the world’s first affordable, zero emission car for the mass market. With that formula, consumer adoption has taken off, making LEAF the world’s best-selling, 100-percent electric vehicle.

For 2015, Nissan LEAF continues to make it “easy to be green,” offering the space and range to meet everyday needs, while also providing an exceptional value propo-sition due to zero spending on gas, lower operating and maintenance costs and a starting price after tax incentives competitive with a comparable gas-powered car.


2015 Nissan Leaf.indd 2 1/4/15 1:58 AM

Along with saving money, Nissan LEAF buyers are discovering its value as a primary everyday vehicle – with High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) access (check local reg-ulations), range that is more than twice the average driver’s daily need and LEAF’s fun-to-drive instant, smooth acceleration and handling character. The estimated driving range for the 2015 LEAF on a fully charged battery is rated by the EPA at 84 miles and MPGe ratings are 126 City, 101 Highway and 114 Combined. In addition to zero tailpipe emissions and convenience of charging at home, LEAF drivers enjoy a smooth, quiet ride with its running noise of just 21 decibels measuring less than a typical ceiling fan (26 dB). The 2015 Nissan LEAF is available in three trim levels: LEAF S, SV and SL, along with option packages offering advanced systems such as Around View Monitor and Energy Efficient Series Bose premium audio system.

Nissan Leaf

2015



Enhancements for 2015 include a new MorningSky Blue exterior color (late avail-ability), the addition of Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant and Voice Destina-tion Entry for SV and SL grades, and new standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels for the SV grade (late availability). Also, the base LEAF S grade receives standard “B-Mode,” which engages regenerative braking more aggressively while decelerating. All 2015 LEAF models include three drive modes: Normal, Eco-Mode and B-Mode.

A Dedicated Electric Vehicle (EV) Platform, Innovative Battery DesignThe front-wheel drive LEAF uses a dedicated EV platform with batteries housed in the floor for optimum vehicle packaging and weight distribution. The body design includes a rigid-mounted battery frame, which helps provide greater body rigidity compared to a conventional compact car. LEAF rides on a 106.3-inch wheelbase,

with a 175.0-inch overall length, 69.7-inch width and 61.0-inch height. Nissan LEAF provides room for five adults and 24 cubic feet of cargo space. Placing the batteries in the floor of the vehicle provides optimum weight distribution to help enhance handling and allows for five-passenger seating by not intruding into the cabin space.

LEAF’s 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack contains 48 compact modules of four cells each (192 cells total), which allows a high degree of packaging flexibility. The bat-teries are designed to maximize driving range and minimize charging time. Unlike



conventional cylindrical batteries, the thin, compact laminated cells offer more flexi-bility in design applications. The battery powers a high-response 80kW AC synchro-nous motor, rated at 107 horsepower and 187 lb-ft of torque, which drives the front wheels through a single-speed reducer.

Nissan LEAF offers a number of charging options. A charge port is located in the front body for the 240V charger and portable trickle-charge cable (110V). A charge port light and lock are standard. The available Quick Charge Port (standard on SL, optional on S, SV) allows charging to 80 percent capacity in 30 minutes at public charging stations using a CHAdeMO fast charger. There is also a standard photovol-taic solar panel spoiler on SL models, which supports charging of the 12-volt battery for vehicle accessories.

LEAF SV and SL grades feature a 6.6 kW onboard charger that require less than five hours at 240V for a full charge. The system is an option on LEAF S, which in stan-dard form utilizes a 3.6 kW onboard charger. All LEAF models come with a stan-dard portable trickle charge cable.

Unlike a conventional internal combustion engine, LEAF has 100 percent of its torque available from start, delivering smooth, consistent acceleration and driving feel similar to a conventional V6 engine. Smooth ride and handling are provided



through use of an independent strut suspension with stabilizer bar in front and a torsion beam rear suspension with integrated stabilizer bar. Nissan LEAF utilizes a vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power steering system, while responsive braking is provided by power-assisted front vented disc/solid rear disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.The standard regenerative braking system in LEAF helps increase range. By applying the brakes or reducing speed by letting off the accelerator, the electric motor acts as an electric generator, converting energy that would otherwise be wasted into battery energy. The “B-mode” (standard on all grades) allows the driver to engage an even more aggressive level of regenerative braking while decelerating, such as when going down hills. B-mode is offered in addition to the normal and Eco drive modes. Eco mode increases regenerative braking, assists in limiting motor output and reduces HVAC power output.

Because Nissan LEAF does not have an internal combustion engine, Nissan has incorporated an “Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians” system, which is de-



signed to alert pedestrians that a vehicle is approaching.

When driving at low speeds, the system emits a sound from a speaker at the front of the vehicle. When the vehicle’s speed reaches 19 mph, pedestrians are able to hear the car moving and the “approaching sound” automatically turns off. If the vehicle speed drops below 16 mph, the sound comes on again.

Exterior Designed for “Smart Fluidity”The uniquely styled Nissan LEAF exterior features a fusion of sophisticated aero-dynamic management with the design freedom provided by the EV layout. The smooth, elegant movement of the body starts from the low, compact hood, moves through the iconic shoulder character line and on toward the large rear spoiler.The distinctive exterior styling is characterized by sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting headlights. The headlights split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, reducing wind noise and drag.

LED low-beam headlights, which consume about half of the electricity of halogen headlights, are standard on LEAF SL and optional on SV. Heated outside mirrors are standard on all grades. In the rear, the slim-type aerodynamic LED taillight design and crisp corners combine with the aerodynamic rear bumper with rear diffuser to manage the aerodynamics of the rear end without compromising rear interior room-iness. Nissan LEAF’s coefficient of drag is 0.28.



The exterior also utilizes a flat underbody (including a large front flat floor cover, electric motor area undercover, front undercover and rear diffuser with fins) to help manage airflow under the vehicle. An innovative vortex-shedding, roof-mount-ed antenna is one of many design elements used to help reduce wind noise. Oth-er noise-reduction features include a quiet-operation windshield wiper motor, a sound-insulation windshield design and a dual-isolated, motor-mounting system. The five-door hatchback design also features chrome door handles, aerodynamic outside mirrors and a large greenhouse to provide a bright interior environment.Two different wheel designs are offered: 16-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers for LEAF S and split five-spoke, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels for LEAF SV (late availability) and SL. Bridgestone Ecopia 205/55R16 all-season tires are used with the S grade, while 215/50R17 Michelin Energy Saver all-season tires are standard on SV (late availability) and SL.

Seven exterior colors are available: Gun Metallic, Brilliant Silver, Super Black, Cay-enne Red, new-for-2015 MorningSky Blue (late availability), and Glacier White and Pearl White are now available on all trims (late availability)

23| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM


Distinctive “EV Touch” InteriorThe roomy Nissan LEAF interior offers a pleasingly modern design with a bright, welcoming atmosphere. The wide, high tech instrument panel design is dominated by a twin combination meter display in front of the driver and a center “floating” C-stack with a 4.3-inch color LCD display (S grade). A 7.0-inch display is standard on SV and SL grades. The digital “eyebrow” display at the top of the instrument pan-el provides high visibility for the Eco indicator and speedometer, while the lower liquid crystal meter display houses the percentage style state-of-charge meter, power meter, battery temperature gauge, multi-function display, remaining energy gauge, capacity level gauge and distance-to-empty display.

The flat panel center C-stack cluster includes the color monitor for the standard RearView Monitor and control of the audio and climate systems, as well as the Nis-san Navigation system (standard on SV and SL) and Around View Monitor (avail-able on SV and SL). The display also provides access to the CARWINGS telematics system (standard on SV and SL), which is connected to a Nissan data center, (sub-scription required, no charge for 36 months).



Nissan LEAF drivers can use web-enabled mobile phones to turn on climate control and set charging functions remotely via the available CARWINGS telematics system (SV and SL models only), even when the vehicle is powered down. An onboard tim-er can also be programmed to start the charging event (standard on all grades).Standard on SV and SL grades is the Nissan Navigation System with NavTraffic (Sir-iusXM subscription required, sold separately). EV-IT highlights include an “Eco route” feature for the available navigation system that includes suggested power-sav-ing alternative routes, plus Google local search, Pandora link for iPhone and iPod cover art. The system also displays “reachable area,” as well as showing a selection of nearby charging stations.

The Google Places search function allows LEAF owners to look for area restaurants, shops and other points of interest and browse user reviews using Google’s POI data-base to get the most up-to-date information at all times.

Added to the EV-IT system for 2015 are Voice Destination Entry (VDE) and Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant (part of NissanConnectSM), drivers can manage in-coming text messages via voice control without taking their hands from the wheel or eyes off the road. Drivers are alerted to an incoming text and, after initiating the system, can hear the text read out loud and respond via voice recognition, or via the steering wheel switches using pre-set answers such as “driving, can’t text,” “on my way,” “running late,” “okay” or a custom message.



The 2015 Nissan LEAF interior also includes standard heated front bucket seats and a 60/40 split folding heated rear seat and rear HVAC duct. LEAF SV seat fabric is made with partially recycled materials. Recycled materials are also used for the back door trim, roof trim and headliner, carpeting and a number of other interior pieces such as the door panels and center console storage cover. LEAF SL includes standard leather-appointed seats. Rear cargo space measures a full 24 cubic feet with the 2nd row seat upright. There is 30 cubic feet of cargo space with the standard 60/40-split rear seat folded down.

The center console area includes the palm shifter for the “by wire” drive selector. The standard heated, three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel houses controls for cruise control (now standard on all grades), audio system and standard Blue-tooth Hands-free Phone System. SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately) is also standard, with HomeLink Universal Transceiver standard on SL models.



Three audio systems are offered, starting with an AM/FM/CD with MP3/WMA CD playback capability, four speakers and 4.3-inch color LCD display for LEAF S. LEAF SV and SL add two additional speakers, the 7.0-inch display and Pandora link for iPhone. The Energy Efficient Series Bose premium audio system is part of the Premi-um Package option on SV and SL grade vehicles.

Two interior colors are offered: Black (S, SV, SL) or Light Gray (SV only).Standard LEAF safety systems include Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and occu-pant classification sensor, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags, roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat out-board occupant head protection, three-point ALR/ELR seat belts (driver’s seat ELR only) with pretensioners and load limiters, child seat upper tether anchor, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system and child safety rear door locks. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS) are also stan-dard on all LEAF models.

Three Well-Equipped Models, Three Option PackagesThe 2015 Nissan LEAF is offered in three well-equipped models, the LEAF S, LEAF SV and LEAF SL. Standard features include a six-way manual driver’s seat, four-way manual front passenger’s seat, trip computer (instant and average energy consump-tion, driving time, outside temperature and autonomy range), Automatic Tempera-ture Control (ATC), center console storage, RearView Monitor and 3.6 kW onboard charger. Other standard equipment includes Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, power windows with driver’s window one-touch auto up/down, power door locks with auto locking feature, remote charge door release, two cupholders, four bottle holders, variable intermittent windshield wipers, a 12-volt power outlet and 16-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers.

The Nissan LEAF SV model adds Nissan Navigation system, 7.0-inch color LCD screen, CARWINGS telematics, six-speaker audio system, Pandora link for iPhone, 6.6 kW onboard charger, a hybrid heater system that provides superior cold weather performance while consuming less energy, auto-dimming inside mirror, partially recycled cloth seat fabric, passenger side map pocket and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (late availability). The 2015 LEAF SL model adds a photovoltaic solar panel spoiler, fog lights, auto on/off headlights, cargo cover, HomeLink Universal



Transceiver, Quick Charge Port, leather-appointed seats and LED low beam head-lights. Three option packages are offered, allowing buyers to further select the exact equipment and features for their needs. The Quick Charge Package (S grade only) includes the 6.6 kW onboard charger and Quick Charge Port. The LED Headlights + Quick Charge Port Package (SV grade only) includes LED low beam headlights, auto on/off headlights, fog lights and Quick Charge Port. Finally, the Premium Package (SV and SL grades) offers the advanced Around View Monitor and Energy Efficient Series Bose seven-speaker audio. A Roadside Assistance program is offered for 36 months at no charge, as is service for the CARWINGS telematics system. The ad-vanced lithium-ion battery pack carries an industry-competitive limited warranty of eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Under an expanded New Elec-tric Vehicle Limited Warranty, Nissan will protect against battery capacity loss below nine bars of capacity as shown on the vehicle’s battery capacity level gauge for the first five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.

The 2015 Nissan LEAF is assembled in the United States at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tenn., assembly plant, with battery assembly taking place next door in the country’s largest lithium-ion automotive battery plant. Nissan is currently the only automaker that manufactures its own electric vehicle (EV) batteries.



Ferrari’s FXX-K debuts At The Finali Mondiali

The new research and development programme for Ferrari’s Client-Test-drivers unveiled at Yas Marina. FXX-K, the new research and development program being embarked upon by Ferrari with a highly select group of Client-Test-drivers, will be unveiled this weekend during the Finali Mondiali at the Yas Marina circuit in Abu

Ferrari FXX-K


Ferrari FXX-K.indd 2 1/4/15 2:05 AM

Dhabi. The program centers around a laboratory-car based on Maranello’s first hy-brid, LaFerrari. The K in the new car’s moniker refers to the KERS kinetic energy recovery technology used to boost performance on the track. The FXX-K joins the non-competitive XX Programs managed by the Corse Clienti Department in Ma-ranello and thus far aimed at the owners of the exclusive FXXs and 599XXs.



Unfettered by homologation and racing regulations, the FXX K was developed to be completely uncompromising, incorporating technological innovations that will guarantee an unprecedented driving experience. The car’s enormous potential can be summed up in a few short but telling figures: an overall power output of 1,050 cv of which 860 are produced by the conventional V12 engine with the remaining 190 cv delivered by the electric motor, plus total maximum torque exceeding 900 Nm.

A focus on delivering maximum efficiency at every stage of every track lap has re-sulted in extensive but integrated work on the entire car body in terms of both active and passive aerodynamics. The FXX-K also incorporates highly effective downforce generation and aero balance concepts debuted and developed in the GT category of the WEC, which Ferrari won on three consecutive years. The result is downforce of 540 kg at 200 km/h.



Vehicle dynamics are further improved by the adoption of Pirelli slicks complete with sensors that monitor longitudinal, lateral and radial acceleration, as well as temperature and pressure. This ensures an accurate analysis of the interaction be-tween the tyre and track surface, providing even more vital data to enable the trac-tion control system to guarantee maximum performance.



Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Wins “Star of the Show” Award At 2014 South Florida International Auto Show

In its auto show debut at the 2014 South Florida International Auto Show in Miami late last week, the 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat was awarded the “Star of the Show” from the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA). “The new Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat has quickly captured the world’s imagination,” said Bill Adam, SAMA president. “Other automotive manufacturers have made high horsepower vehicles over the years, but none comes close to this one. Dodge has built a family capable performance sedan that is sinister and powerful looking, while still able to achieve impressive gas mileage, making this car the 2014 Star of the Show.”

2015 Dodge Charger S R T Hellcat


2015 Dodge Charger SRT HellCat.indd 2 1/4/15 2:29 AM

2015 Dodge Charger S R T HellcatThe new 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is powered by the new supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® V-8 engine. Its 707 horsepower matches the highest rating of any V-8 engine in Chrysler Group’s celebrated history – that of the 2015 Dodge Chal-lenger SRT Hellcat – making it the quickest, fastest and most powerful production sedan in the world, as well as the most capable and technologically advanced four-door muscle car in America. The supercharged HEMI V-8 engine is mated to the new segment-first TorqueFlite 8HP90 eight-speed automatic transmission.

The unrivaled four-door performance numbers tell an impressive story with an NHRA-certified, quarter mile in 11.0 seconds, 0-60 miles per hour (mph) in 3.7 sec-onds, 0-100-0 mph in under 13 seconds and a top speed of 204 mph.



“Thanks to the Southern Automotive Media Association for this prestigious award recognizing our new ultimate performance sedan and its unrivaled capabilities,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO — Dodge and SRT Brands. “We’re proud that in its auto show debut, the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is carrying on the buzz that began earlier this year when our Challenger SRT Hellcat surprised the muscle car world.”

Additional performance attributes of the new Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat include the largest brakes ever offered in a Chrysler Group vehicle – 15.4-inch Brembo two-piece rotors with six-piston calipers, 20-by-9.5-inch wide forged-aluminum wheels with Pirelli P Zero performance tires and adaptive damping three-mode suspension.Dodge and SRT designers have re-sculpted and refined nearly every body panel of the new Charger with functional performance cues, including heat extractors in the hood, unique front and rear fascias and dramatic LED lighting in both front and rear.

The 2015 Charger SRT models feature restyled driver-focused interiors with premi-um, soft-touch materials, a new 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) customizable dig-ital instrument gauge cluster and a new instrument panel center stack with the latest generation 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen media center. The 2015 Dodge Charger 35| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM


SRT Hellcat will be built at the Brampton, Ontario, Assembly Plant. Production is slated to begin in the first quarter of 2015.

• Industry accolade comes courtesy of the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA) in the 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat’s auto show debut

• Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is the quickest, fastest and most powerful sedan in the world, featuring a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 Hellcat engine that pro-duces 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque



CADILLAC PLATINUM AD.indd 2 1/4/15 2:20 AM

MCGUIRE CADILLAC INC910 RTE 1N WOODBRIDGE, NJ 07095

FEATURING THE ALL-NEWCUE– CADILLAC USER EXPERIENCE

W W W . M C G U I R E C A D I L L A C . C O M

DEALERCADILLAC

PLATINUMTHE NEW STANDARD FOR LUXURY

CADILLAC PLATINUM AD.indd 3 1/4/15 2:20 AM

http://www.mcguirecadillac.com/

The Beast Is Unleashed: 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat On Way To Dealerships

The wait is over. The highly anticipated new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat with its supercharged whine is about to roar into Dodge dealerships across the Unit-ed States. Dodge and SRT received more than 4,500 orders for the new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat in just the first five days after orders opened in September. Those 707-horsepower muscle cars are now leaving the Brampton (Ont.) Assembly plant where they were built and making their way to Dodge customers across the country.

2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is most powerful and fastest muscle car ever with 707 horsepower, supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 engine and a certified ¼-mile elapsed time of 11.2 seconds at 125 miles per hour on street tires 22 miles per gallon (mpg) achieved with segment-exclusive TorqueFlite eight-speed automat-ic transmission; new six-speed manual contributes to 21-mpg highway rating.

The 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT HellCat


2015 Dodge Challenger SRT HellCat.indd 2 1/4/15 2:33 AM

The 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT HellCat

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $59,995 (excluding destination)

“The introduction of the new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat has ignited the general market’s interest in the muscle car segment,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO, Dodge and SRT brands. “The reaction from our customers and the gener-al public has been beyond even our positive expectations, and we will work to build a Challenger Hellcat for every customer who wants one.”

The 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is the fastest muscle car ever with a Nation-al Hot Rod Association-certified ¼-mile elapsed time of 11.2 seconds at 125 miles per hour (mph) with stock Pirelli P275/40ZR20 P Zero tires. With drag radials, the ¼-mile run dropped to just 10.8 seconds at 126 mph.

The fastest muscle car ever is also the most powerful muscle car ever, thanks to the Challenger SRT’s HEMI Hellcat, which delivers an unprecedented 707 horsepower



and 650 lb.-ft. of torque. The 6.2-liter V-8 is also the first factory-built supercharged HEMI. Equipped with Chrysler Group’s segment-exclusive TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, the new Challenger SRT Hellcat has earned a highway fu-el-economy rating of 22 miles per gallon (mpg) from the U.S. Environmental Pro-tection Agency (EPA). Not to be outdone, the Challenger SRT Hellcat earns an EPA highway rating of 21 mpg when equipped with the new-for-2015 six-speed manual transmission.

In addition to the awe-inspiring horsepower, the new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat has been redesigned and totally re-engineered to be the most true-to-form muscle coupe on the market with performance-enhancing technologies inside and out, including the new TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual and an all-new interior inspired by the classic 1971 Challenger.



The 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat has a starting U.S. MSRP (Manufactur-ers Suggested Retail Price) of $59,995 (excluding $995 destination, includes $2,100 gas-guzzler tax; $1,700 gas-guzzler tax on models with the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic).



2016 Sorento Makes North American Debut At Los Angeles Auto Show

With its roads and freeways as the foundation of driving adventures encompassing sunny surf-side beaches, rugged snow-covered mountains, starkly beautiful deserts and a wide variety of other destinations, Kia Motors America (KMA) chose Los An-geles for the North American debut of the all-new 2016 Sorento CUV.

Kia Sorento

2016


2016 Kia Sorento.indd 2 1/4/15 11:24 AM

Owing many of its design inspirations to the highly regarded Cross GT concept that was unveiled in 2013, Kia’s design and engineering teams focused on a stronger body structure, delivering premium-grade NVH reduction and providing the driving con-fidence to enable the active lifestyle CUV owners covet. Sorento buyers have their choice of three engines, including a new 2.0-liter turbo-charged four cylinder, the silky smooth 3.3-liter V6 and an improved 2.4-liter nor-mally aspirated inline-4. Standard premium features and luxurious amenities will be



available across five trim levels – L, LX, EX, SX and SXL – when U.S. sales begin in the first quarter of 2015. Pricing will be announced closer to Sorento’s launch date.

• With a new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine option as well as a stronger body structure, longer wheelbase and dynamic driving improvements, Sorento delivers a premium utility experience

• Kia’s popular U.S.-built Sorento is the first vehicle in North America to offer Clari-Fi1 digital music restoration technology by Harman

“The core principles in the development of the all-new 2016 Sorento were simple: Deliver class-up premium materials and features in a capable, confidence-inspiring CUV,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, Product Planning, KMA. “During the de-velopment process, engineers started from the ground up by reinforcing an already stiff body structure. This added rigidity pays dividends when conditions are less than perfect and helps deliver a premium driving experience.



By painstakingly crafting a vehicle with significant reductions in NVH and substan-tial gains in overall driving comfort and dynamics, the 2016 Sorento sets a new stan-dard for Kia in the highly competitive mid-size CUV segment.”

Inspired ExteriorReimagining the Sorento was no easy task for Kia’s designers, as the previous gener-ation was lauded for its exceptional design. Not unlike the sophisticated Cross GT concept, which debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in 2013, the new Sorento finds some of its design inspiration in nature, as well as in the journey to nature’s outdoor adventures, revealing a vehicle of exceptional exterior presence that is larger than the outgoing model in nearly every way.

Overall, the all-new Sorento takes on a brawnier, more planted stance, communi-cating its edginess and rugged personality. The clean profile is easily recognizable as Sorento, enhanced with stronger shoulders and a long hood to deliver a more aero-dynamic and sleek appearance. Combining a significantly longer 109.4-inch wheel-base (up 3.1 inches) and overall width that’s broadened to 74.4 inches (increased by



0.2 inches) the Sorento’s packaging is more efficient and allows for greater interior room. The aggressively styled front end, with its narrower headlight design, is an evolution of the upper fascia seen on the Cross GT concept and bears a strong family resemblance to the all-new highly praised Sedona multipurpose vehicle. Distinctive LED positioning lights set the Sorento apart from others in the midsize CUV seg-ment.

Sitting below the headlights, the lower intake and fog lamp pockets are more promi-nent, creating a sportier appearance, which blends harmoniously with the overall de-sign proportions. Premium enhancements include available LED rear dimensional tail lamps and LED fog lamps. The Sorento’s muscular body sits atop four new alloy wheel designs ranging from 17 to 19 inches, depending on trim level.

Class-Up InteriorWith an overall interior theme focused on the stability of a horizontal plane, the de-sign motif provides a strong foundation for the premium textures and high-quality materials found throughout the 2016 Sorento’s cabin. The liberal application of soft-touch materials is particularly evident around the instrument panel, center console and door panels.



Depending on trim level, the ready-for-adventure 2016 Sorento comes with standard 40/20/40 second-row folding five-passenger (4-cylinder models) or 50/50 folding third-row seven-passenger (V6 models) seating configurations. The seating system of the new Sorento is designed to offer optimum comfort and ideal seating positions to fulfill the needs of every occupant.

For added luxury, also available are heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, 14-way power driver and 8-way power passenger seats, driver’s seat thigh ex-tension, a 4-way headrest with one-button adjustment, dual-zone HVAC and Kia’s second-generation panoramic sunroof, as well as available premium Nappa leather trim seating surfaces, similar to those found in Kia’s luxury flagship sedan, the K900.

Second- and third-row passengers will enjoy enhanced comfort thanks to a 0.5-inch increase in rear passenger space for both rows and a roomier flattened second-row center floor. Access to third-row seating is improved with 1.5 inches of additional boarding space, while headroom throughout the cabin is also increased.

Overall cargo volume in the new Sorento increases from 72.5 cu.-ft. to 74 cu.-ft., while cargo volume behind the 3rd row increases from 9.1 cu.-ft. to 11 cu.-ft., pro-viding increased space for essentials and active-lifestyle equipment without sacrific-ing rear-passenger room.

In addition, an easy-folding lever allows various seating arrangements, flexible lug-gage space and greater overall versatility. Users can fold the second-row seatback without opening the rear door by pulling the lever mounted on the luggage-area side trim. This feature allows quick and easy loading of large cargo.

The available premium sound system is well suited to Sorento’s now-more-upscale interior environment. Piping in music from an available 630 watt, 12-speaker Infin-ity 2 stereo system with an 11-channel amplifier, audiophile sound has gone mobile in the Sorento with the addition of Clari-Fi music restoration technology.

Clari–Fi scans all types of compressed audio files for lost music details and intelli-gently corrects waveform deficiencies based on existing music information and au-dio source quality. It then recaptures the missing highs and lows, restores the vocals to their natural tone, returns to a true stereo sound and removes unwanted distor-tions and artifacts.



Progressive Technology – UVO3New in the 2016 Sorento, four additional UVO eServices are now available: Geo-fencing, Speed Alert, Curfew Alert and Driving Score. Additionally, with the introduction of the Kia App store, select apps can be downloaded for free from iTunes 4 or Google PlaySM5. The Kia app connector is now available for partner-ship with the content community, including Pandora 6, iHeart Radio7and Yelp 8. Many more new technologies for comfort and convenience are featured in the new UVO system, including Siri 4 “Eyes Free9” and Local Search – powered by Google – for finding locations, addresses and points of interest. Sirius XM Travel Link10, offering access to traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports scores, stock informa-tion and movie times, keeps you well connected while taking those weekend excur-sions in the Sorento.

Accessed through a crystal-clear 8-inch capacitive-touch color screen, the available navigation11 system features SD card storage for MAP DATA and USB 2.0 support for high-speed updates as well as integrated rear backup camera,Bluetooth12 hands-free support and UVO voice recognition. A 4.3-inch TFT color touch screen is stan-dard and also incorporates Bluetooth, and UVO voice recognition capability.



A New Driving ExperienceThe core of the all-new 2016 Sorento is its significantly modified platform. The en-hanced structure increases torsional rigidity by 14 percent over the previous gener-ation. Fifty-three percent of the unit-body consists of advanced high-strength steel, a 115 percent increase over the outgoing model. Liberal application of industrial strength adhesives, the use of dual-seal lip joints as well as large diameter and laser welding techniques combine to make the 2016 model the most robust Sorento ever.

The all-new 2016 Sorento offers a number of safety features, including seatbelt an-chor pretensioners and six airbags, help give Sorento drivers the confidence and peace-of-mind they need when driving their families on the nation’s highways and bi-ways. All Sorento models come standard with active safety features such as Elec-tronic Stability Control (ESC)13, Traction Control System (TCS)13, Brake Assist System (BAS)13, Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)13, Electronic Brake Force Distri-bution (EBD)13 and Antilock Braking System (ABS)13.

Additional technologies such as Roll Over Mitigation (ROM)13 and Cornering Brake Control (CBC)13 on AWD models also were added as standard equipment for improved dynamic control and safety.



New available driver aid technology, including Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)14, Forward Collision Warning System (FCWS)14, Smart Cruise Control (SCC)14, Blind Spot Detection (BSD)14, Rear Cross Traffic Alert14 and Surround View Monitor (SVM)14, help provide Sorento owners with a more convenient daily driving experience.

The 2016 Sorento combines a strong base with additional design improvements to reduce NVH and provide a comfortable and quiet driving experience. Updates to the rear suspension include a redesigned rear cross-member span that’s longer than the outgoing model for improved wheel travel over harsh roads and revised bushings to help reduce road noise. Vertically mounted rear shocks contribute to a comfort-able ride no matter what the driving conditions.

Up front, the Sorento’s revised suspension geometry and responsive steering system result in a quick and nimble behind-the-wheel feel. Ride and handling are opti-mized with the application of an “H” shaped subframe, four-point bushing mount-ings, and Hydraulic Rebound Stopper-type shock absorbers.

The available Rack-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS) features direct mounting of the electric motor on the steering rack, enhancing steering response and improving handling.



Sorento continues to offer an advanced AWD system that automatically routes pow-er to the wheel with the most traction. When conditions call for more sure-footed capability, the 4WD Lock Mode splits engine power evenly between the front and rear drive shafts. The system also provides drivers the added stability of Torque Vec-tor Cornering Control (TVCC). The TVCC system is activated when yaw and steer-ing sensors detect unwanted understeer.

The spirited front- or all-wheel drive experience is brought to life with a choice of three engines, including a 2.4-liter inline-4 GDI, a 3.3-liter V6 GDI and a new 2.0-li-ter inline-4 GDI turbocharged powerplant. The 2.4-liter engine, with new Electron-ic Intake Continuously Variable Valve Timing (E-CVVT–) delivers a capable 185 horsepower.

On the other end of the engine range, the Sorento’s V6 gallops to the tune of 290 horses on the open road and is now able to tow up to 5,000 lbs. In the middle, the new turbocharged I-4 provides a best-of-both-worlds scenario, making a stout 240 horsepower while also delivering commendable fuel efficiency15. All three engines channel energy through an electronically controlled six-speed automatic gearbox featuring Sportmatic shifting.



Kawasaki Reveals Their New Ninja H2R Motorcycle

Kawasaki has unveiled the 2015 Ninja H2R, and it’s simply the most powerful pro-duction motorcycle ever. Its supercharged 998cc inline-4 pumps out an incredible 300 hp, substantially more than even a top flight MotoGP racer has. Many additional details have not yet been revealed, including price, but with about 50 percent more power than Kawasaki’s top of the line $15,899 ZX-14R ABS superbike, you can ex-pect it to cost a bit more than that. In fact, the closest thing to it in recent years was the limited edition 2014 Ducati 1199 Superleggera, each of the 500 built selling for $65,000.

KawasakiNinja H2-R


2015 Kawasaki Ninja H2-R.indd 2 1/4/15 2:38 AM

BUILT BEYOND BELIEFThe Kawasaki Ninja H2™R motorcycle is an engineering marvel, made possible only through the sourcing of technological expertise from multiple divisions of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. The Gas Turbine division was crucial in the development of a hyper-efficient supercharger —the only one of its kind; custom components we rec-reated to near-impossible tolerances by the Machinery division; and the Aerospace division crafted the distinctive carbon-fiber bodywork of this aerodynamic master-piece. The result is a system of carefully crafted premium components that work in concert to create an unbelievably powerful machine—one that’s more than worthy of the legendary H2 name.



2014 Connecticut International Auto ShowThe 2014 Connecticut International Auto Show, kicked off this year in Hartford, CT with auto manufacturers from all around the world. Though the venue was not as big as the other international auto shows, the line-up of cars on the show floor was enough for the media and public to enjoy. We were able to capture some stunning photos of the cars on the show floor for you all to enjoy!

2014


2014 Conn Auto Show.indd 2 1/4/15 11:36 AM

2014



With the world premiere in Guangzhou and the presentation in Los Angeles, the new Mercedes- Maybach S-Class will be unveiled almost simultaneously in its two key markets of China and the USA. At 214.6 inches long and with a wheelbase of 132.5 inches, the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz model range is 8.1 inches larger in both dimensions than the S-Class Sedan. Rear passengers benefit from this increased size as well as from standard equipment that includes executive seats on both the left and right sides and other exclusive details. In the rear, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is also the world’s quietest production sedan. The US will launch with the Mercedes- Maybach S600 in April 2015.

2016Mercedes-MaybachS600


Mercedes-Maybach S600.indd 2 1/4/15 12:01 PM

“The history of prestige vehicles made by Daimler extends back to the earliest days of the motor car. We have now commenced a new chapter with the Mercedes-May-bach S-Class,” points out Ola Källenius, member of the Divisional Board of Mer-cedes-Benz Cars responsible for sales. “As an addition to the portfolio of S-Class se-dans, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class sets new standards in the luxury segment. The vehicle satisfies the very highest requirements in terms of exclusivity appointments and comfort.” “Perfection down to the last detail and a new dimension in seating and resting comfort for the rear passengers are the hallmarks of the new Mercedes-May-bach”, says Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Devel-opment.



“Our exceptionally successful new S-Class already defines the pinnacle of automo-tive engineering in a host of technical disciplines such as safety, efficiency, climate control and noise characteristics. The Mercedes-Maybach now sets the benchmark in the luxury segment even higher.”

Mercedes-Maybach: a new sub-brand offering peerless exclusivityThe Mercedes-Maybach S-Class melds the perfection of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class with the exclusivity of Maybach. Mercedes-Maybach motor cars epitomize peerless exclusivity. Some of the features that distinguish these vehicles from production models include extra spaciousness with lavishly designed, prestigious interiors of-fering an extensive scope of individualization. As a result, the cars fulfil the require-ments of even the most discerning customers worldwide.

Mercedes-Maybach is not an equipment line – it is a sub-brand that in the future will provide Mercedes-Benz vehicles in an even more exclusive form. Alongside Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Maybach is thus the second sub-brand in the Mer-cedes-Benz brand world. Providing both prestige and exclusivity, it is aimed at cus-tomers for whom status is important.

The US market launch of the Mercedes-Maybach S600 is scheduled for April 2015. Its V12 biturbo engine has an output of 523 hp. With a displacement of 5980 cc, the maximum torque of 612 lb-ft is available from 1900 rpm.119| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM


Inside the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the level of wind noise is impressively low and in the rear, despite the large windows, betters even the quietest car in the world – the S-Class Coupe. For passengers in the rear, the Mercedes- Maybach S-Class is the world’s quietest production sedan.

In its exterior design, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class combines stylish, effortless su-periority with trend-setting exclusivity. The vehicle makes modern luxury come alive in an exceptional way. Along with the extended wheelbase, emphatic lines suggest power and dynamism. Due to the side profile’s special design, characteristic design elements for the S-Class are retained such as the sweeping, dome-shaped roofline.

The key distinguishing feature is the new side line: by comparison with the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class, the striking rear door has been shortened by 2.6 inches and therefore appears to meld seamlessly into the overall composition. The door has no triangular window because this has been relocated into the C-pillar. As a result, the rear seats are situated beyond the door cutout, which creates a feeling of exceptional privacy and exclusivity. The elegant Maybach Manufaktur logo – a double M inside an arched triangle – adorns the C-pillars on both sides.



In the interior of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, passengers are enveloped in lounge-style, modern luxury. With its clear architecture, refined materials and stylish controls, the vehicle embodies a sensuous elegance. For an exclusive look, the front center armrests with exclusive nappa leather or optional semi- aniline upholstery feature embossed Maybach crests. Another special feature in the dashboard is the analogue clock with an IWC design.

The high quality standards of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are impressively ev-ident from the doors, which even have handstitched door trim as part of the stan-dard equipment. This extravagance is part of the interior’s luxurious, hand-finished “Manufaktur” character. Exclusive features used in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are trim parts in wood/chrome and leather at shoulder height in the door panels, chrome-plated tweeter grilles and fiber- optic cables for the ambient lighting to the side on the armrest. Together they create a unique atmosphere conveying a sense of capacious style.

As the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz model range, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class satisfies the very highest requirements in terms of luxury appointments and comfort. In addition to all the amenities of the conventional S-Class, a number of exclusive interior touches underscore the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class’s ambition to lead. These include the exclusive Maybach perfume AGARWOOD for fragrancing as part of the



AIR-BALANCE package and two silver-plated, handcrafted champagne flutes. The standard Burmester® High-End 3D surround sound system offers a unique optical and acoustic experience. As a visual highlight, the tweeters in the rear doors of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are particularly sophisticated and can also be moved towards the passengers in a spiral motion.

A sense of spaciousness: setting new benchmarks for sleeping and resting comfort in the rearFor the driver and any front passenger, there have been no compromises compared with a “normal” S-Class. Here, however, the real sense of spaciousness is to be found in the rear.

The benefits of extending the wheelbase by 7.9 inches are felt entirely in the back of the vehicle where the specification has been refined even more. Due to the roofline, it was also possible to further raise the head clearance.Here is a comparison of two important dimensions relating to comfort:

V222 Mercedes- Benz S550 and S600 Sedan X222 Mercedes- Maybach S600 SedanEffective headroom in rear* (in.) 37.4 37.9

Kneeroom in rear* (in.) 6.5 12.8



With executive seat and sliding sunroofAnother advantage of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are the standard-fit executive seats on the left and right. These rear seats offer a unique level of comfort thanks to a special adjustment kinematics system. In contrast to the norm, the backrest is adjusted separately while the footwell and seat reference point remain unchanged. The cushion can be adjusted separately, with inclination and horizontal adjustment combined.For the executive seats, the maximum backrest angle is 43.5 degrees. The most upright backrest position of 19 degrees allows relaxed working in the rear. The reclining seats feature a calf support, which is freely adjustable for length and angle. As standard, the luxury head restraints come with an extra cushion.

The Chauffeur package is also part of the standard equipment. A “chauffeur posi-tion” for the front passenger seat is one of the key components: due to changes to the kinematics system, the rear seat occupant on the front- passenger side has 3 inches more footroom compared with a normal front passenger seat in the furthest forward seat position. In addition to this “chauffeur position”, the front passenger seat can be folded forward and the rear seat placed in an extended recline position for breaks. EASY ADJUST luxury head restraints come as standard for the driver and passen-ger, and the one on the front-passenger side is folding.



For the rear passenger, the Chauffeur package also includes a heel support, which extends from under the front passenger seat. This allows a reclined position that sets new standards in the automotive sector with respect to sleeping and resting comfort. Individual seat functions in the rear, and those of the chauffeur seat, are of course electrically operated via the typical Mercedes control panels in the rear doors. The rear armrest has a double cup holder, storage space and wood trim. The Mer-cedes-Maybach also includes individually adjustable multicontour seats, for exam-ple, and an ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot- stone principle The optional Executive Rear Seat Package PLUS (center console in the rear) is a visual continuation of the front console on the center tunnel. It is equipped with innova-tive thermo cup holders, which use Peltier technology to cool or warm drinks over a longer period of time.

Like an aircraft seat, the center console is available with two tables which can be eas-ily folded in or out using one hand. Two articulated joints on the stem and underside of the table enable it to be adjusted to almost any position. The table supports and surface are made of a light alloy, combining great stability with a high-quality look. The table surfaces have leather inserts to provide a comfortable writing surface.

To deliver maximum climatic control in the rear compartment, there is a second, standard-fitted dual automatic climate control system in the rear with two addition-al climate zones for the rear seats. A control panel on the back of the center console allows the temperature and air distribution to be set individually for the left and right sides. For targeted climate control, there are two nozzles in the center console and also on the B-pillars and in the rear footwell. Using COMAND, the driver can conveniently adjust the automatic climate control system for the back of the vehicle too. As exclusive standard equipment in the Mercedes-Maybach S600, there is the AIR-BALANCE package including ionization, enhanced air filtration and fragranc-ing with AGARWOOD, the exclusive Maybach perfume.



Aeroacoustics: in the back of the world’s quietest production sedanInside the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the level of wind noise is impressively low and, despite the large windows, it is even quiter the quietest car in the world – the S-Class Coupe. For passengers in the rear, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is the world’s quietest production sedan. Extensive measurements were also taken in ex-perimental vehicles considering the fully reclined position in the rear. That is be-cause positioning the passenger away from the side windows and towards the rear window and triangular windows creates a new acoustic situation.

Special seals optimize the noise insulation, thereby ensuring excellent aeroacous-tic performance in the rear. These include seals over the C joints in the rear doors, which have a hose profile rather than the usual lip seal, as well as bonded triangular windows with a special seal.



Other measures in the rear compartment are a generous area of insulation around the single seats extending from the seat cushion over the rear panel to the parcel shelf. Intelligent air ducting around the parcel shelf reduces the intrusion of noise, and sealed inertia reels on the seat belts prevent possible disturbing sounds. The tex-tile underbody and wheel arch lining have an insulating and absorptive effect, which reduces high-frequency tire noise in the interior.

A new aeroacoustic wind tunnel at the Mercedes-Benz Technology Center in Sin-delfingen became operational in September 2013 and played a crucial part in achiev-ing excellent, quiet running. For example, the conveyor belt/balance system there is integrated into a turntable with a diameter of twelve meters. This means that test vehicles can also to be subjected to an angled flow of air in order to simulate cross-winds.

As a result, experts in aeroacoustics were able to study the perfect design for the door structure of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class under wind load. The door seal must fit closely even when subjected to a constant or gusty sidewind such as would be encountered when passing a truck, on bridges, in wooded areas or when driving on a coastal road. Despite negative pressure on the side away from wind, the door must never be pulled more than a few millimeters away from the seal. Large doors are particularly susceptible to this phenomenon because strength is a product of (negative) pressure and area.



Exterior design: elegant and exclusiveIn its exterior design, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class combines stylish, effortless superiority with trend-setting exclusivity. The vehicle makes modern luxury (in the truest sense of the word) come alive in an exceptional way. Along with the extend-ed wheelbase, emphatic lines suggest power and dynamism. Due to the side profile’s special design, characteristic design elements for the S-Class are retained such as the sweeping, dome-shaped roofline.

The key distinguishing feature is the new side line: by comparison with the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class, the striking rear door has been shortened by 2.6 inches and therefore appears to seamlessly meld into the overall composition. The door has no triangular window. This has been relocated into the C-pillar. As a result, the rear seats are situated beyond the door cutout, which creates a feeling of exceptional privacy and exclusivity. The triangular windows and other glass areas alike have chrome surrounds. The B- pillar is also covered in chrome. The elegant Maybach Manufaktur logo – a double M inside an arched triangle – adorns the C-pillars on both sides. What is more, exclusive 20-inch forged, light-alloy wheels are available for the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. Instead of delicate spokes, their de-sign features large surfaces to underline the flagship model’s high-quality look.



Overall the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is 8.1 inches longer than the S-Class, all of which is the result of the extension between the B and C-pillar. All this additional space is used to boost comfort for rear passengers.Subtle yet noticeable changes in both the front and rear area differentiate the longest S-Class from its smaller siblings. Three double louvres in chrome within the radiator trim have a formative influence on the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class’s elegant look. Additional vertical chrome trim discreetly but deeply underlines the special appeal of this extraordinary vehicle. This theme is taken up once again in the design at the tail end.

• The key features of the front end design:• Dominant radiator trim with large radiator opening and three double louvres in

chrome• Subtle vertical chrome trim• Double trim in the air intakes on the right and left• Double trim in the bottom end piece of the bumpers



The emphatic design for the sides draws to an effective conclusion at the rear. The chrome double louvres deployed at the front are continued in the rear area, empha-sizing high quality and elegance.

Key features of the rear end design:

• Horizontal lines emphasise the vehicle’s width• Two tailpipe trim elements in chrome integrated into the bumper with vertical

partition• Chrome double louvres in the bottom section of the bumper covering add the

perfect finishing touch to the vehicle• Maybach lettering on the trunk (mounted on the left in direction of travel)

Interior design: the essence of modern luxury“To create only the very best from the very best a car that fulfils every last wish and stands out for its supremely refined elegance and power” is the aim according to a Maybach brochure dating from 1930. This continues to be the case today. In the interior of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, passengers are enveloped in modern luxury. With its clear architecture, refined materials and stylish controls, the vehicle embodies a sensuous elegance. The Exclusive trim package, which is fitted as stan-



dard, increases the sense of perceived value still further, particularly in the rear of the vehicle. Sensuously curved, fine-wood trim with a handcrafted feel surrounds the entire rear seating system. The seat-back lining, doors and nozzle coverings are resplendent in fine wood.

For an exclusive look, the front center armrests with nappa leather or exclusive nap-pa leather upholstery feature embossed Maybach crests (and also the armrests in the rear in conjunction with the First-Class rear suite). Another special feature in the dashboard is the analog clock with an IWC design. The numbers are individually milled and applied, underlining the analogue clock’s exclusive design. Both the num-bers and indicators are made of fine metal.

The high quality standards of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are evident from the doors, which even have handstitched door trim as part of the standard equipment (in nappa leather with exclusive leather as an optional extra). This extravagance is part of the interior’s luxurious, hand-finished “Manufaktur” character. Exclusive features used in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are trim parts in wood/chrome and leather at shoulder height in the door panels, a nappa leather roof liner, chrome-plat-ed tweeter grilles and fiber-optic cables for the ambience lighting to the side on the armrest. Together they create a unique atmosphere conveying a sense of capacious style.



V12 engineThe US market will launch with the Mercedes-Maybach S600. Its V12 biturbo engine has an output of 523 hp With a displacement of 5980 cc, the maximum torque of 612 lb-ft is available from 1900 rpm. The Mercedes- Maybach S600 completes the sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 5.0 seconds, while the top speed is 155 mph (electronically lim-ited). The most important features of the V12 engine are the all-aluminium crank-case, one-piece chain drive, forged crankshaft in high-grade quenched and tempered steel, forged pistons, dedicated ignition coil with multispark ignition, hollow-stem outlet valves filled with sodium and a low-temperature coolant circuit with separate expansion reservoir.

At a glance: Mercedes-Maybach S600 Sedan Number of cylinders/arrangement 12/V Displacement (cc) 5980 Rated output (mph at rpm) 523 at 4900-5300 Rated torque (lb-ft at rpm) 612 at 1900-4000 Acceleration 0-60 mph (seconds) 5.0 Top speed (mph) 155

Bodyshell: exemplary stabilityFrom the outset, the bodyshell for the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class was developed alongside the two shorter S-Class models and thus benefits from the innovative solu-tions deployed there. The new S-Class has already won the world’s most prestigious award in car body construction: at the annual EuroCarBody Conference in Bad Nauheim in October 2013, it beat off the competition to achieve first place. Decisive factors included the highly innovative aluminium hybrid construction of the S-Class vehicle body featuring various materials such as cast aluminium and high-strength steels, along with the efficient use of appropriate joining technology such as alu-minium MIG welding, self-piercing riveting and the first use of RobScan welding on aluminium in large-scale production.Based on this exemplary substructure the Mercedes-Maybach bodyshell, which has the largest side panel made in series pro-duction in a single piece, was optimized further. Repeated reinforcements at the base of the B-pillar – the engineers talk vividly of the shoe-shaped reinforcements on the S-Class turning into “boots” here on the Mercedes-Maybach and at the transition from the almost square door cutout to the wheel arch provide additional rigidity. Despite the much longer length, NVH conduct is trend-setting for its class. Among



other factors, the attachments for the reclining seats in the rear have been enlarged to avoid subtle vibrations a modification that likewise benefits the S-Class.

Safety: intelligent assistance systems and innovations for the rearLike the S-Class, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class comes standard with numerous new assistance systems that make driving even more comfortable and safer. Intel-ligent Drive systems include PRE-SAFE Brake with Pedestrian Recognition, DIS-TRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, BAS PLUS with Cross- Traffic Assist, Active LaneKeeping Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and Night View Assist Plus.With the standard PRE-SAFE active belt buckles, seatbelt airbag, and seat cushion airbag, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class possesses further innovative safety features that are not even available as options from other brands. Executive seats in the rear as standard come with the innovative seat cushion airbag. The airbag is located un-der the seat cushion upholstery, but on top of the plastic seat shell, which is moved by the seat mechanisms. This means that the airbag is always in the right position relative to the occupant.

In an accident, with the occupant in a reclined position on a flat seat cushion, with-out additional measures there would be a danger of the pelvic area sliding beneath the belt strap (submarining). This can be prevented by the cushionbag, as it raises the front section of the seat cushion upholstery. The airbag is only activated if the seat is in the reclined position during a crash. It is not activated in the upright posi-tion, as there is then no danger of submarining.



Reducing belt slack: PRE-SAFE active seat belt bucklesWith the PRE-SAFE active seat belt buckles, an electric motor automatically rais-es and lowers the buckle. This makes for easier seat belt attachment and reduces any belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax. Passengers are also secured more firmly in both the sideways and lengthways direction. The seat belt buckle extender follows the integral Mercedes-Benz safety concept. By systematically implementing safety as a priority, this concept covers all phases of automobile safety: from safety while driving to safety in hazardous situations, and from protection in an accident to minimisation of the consequences. The innovation is classic Mercedes-Benz, im-proving safety and comfort in one. This is because fastening seat belts in the rear is also made much simpler: the seat belt buckle emerges from the upholstery when the rear doors are opened and is provided with an illuminated insertion slot. Simplifying use of the seat belt in this manner may increase the percentage of rear passengers who buckle up. It also makes it easier to assist children or people who require help in fastening their seat belts.

The seat belt buckle extender is furthermore integrated into the Pre-Safe anticipatory safety system. This means that in cases where Pre-Safe is activated in critical driving situations, there is also reversible belt tensioning in the rear via the seat belt buckle extender. The restraint system and passengers are thus better prepared for a possible accident situation. In this way, the Pre-Safe active seat belt buckle extender comple-



ments the pyrotechnical belt tensioning which has featured as standard on all outer rear seats in Mercedes-Benz vehicles for many years now, and is triggered in the event of an impact exceeding a certain severity.The seat belt buckle extender is a mo-torised belt buckle which can be extended upwards by up to 50 mm and retracted by up to 40 mm. The belt buckle is attached via a cable to a nut which runs on a spindle, translating the electric motor’s rotary movement into a linear movement.

An airbag for seat beltsThe seat belt airbag is an inflatable seat-belt strap that reduces the load on the rib-cage in a front impact and is thus able to reduce the risk of injury to passengers in the rear. Because dummy measurement technology is not capable of quantifying the benefits resulting from a wider belt strap, such as the lower force exerted on occu-pants in the rib area in particular, the safety experts at Mercedes have been working extensively with virtual human models too. Such computer-generated models make it possible to obtain detailed findings on the biomechanical strain during an acci-dent. Should the crash sensors detect a severe frontal impact, the airbag control unit triggers deployment and inflation of the beltbag. A gas generator then inflates the multi-layered belt strap with tear seams to nearly three times its normal width. The resulting larger surface area is able to better distribute the force acting on the seat occupant. This lowers the risk of injury. The beltbag is used in exactly the same way as a conventional seat belt. The belt strap’s design is different from that of the stan-dard belt though, and received top marks in practical trials for being extremely com-fortable to wear and for its extra-soft belt strap edge.

Other protective measures: windowbag and thorax-sidebagIf the central electronic control unit detects a side crash, the windowbag and tho-rax-sidebag are deployed on the side of the vehicle on which the impact occurs. To ascertain the lateral acceleration, the central crash sensor has support from exterior satellite sensors located at the base of the B-pillars. Pressure sensors in all four doors also help to estimate the severity of the impact.

Equipment and appointments: an exclusive perfume and handcrafted champagne flutesAs the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz model range, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class satisfies the very highest requirements in terms of luxury appointments and comfort. In addition to all the amenities of the conventional S-Class, a number of exclusive interior touches underscore the ambition to lead of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.



Here is an overview of the most important exclusive highlights:• Of course, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class comes standard with the AIR-BAL-

ANCE packagewhich includes fragrancing, ionization and even more efficient filtration compared with the basic vehicle. A premium room fragrance has been designed exclusively for this model and theAGARWOOD bottle itself is adorned with Maybach lettering. Agarwood speaks of the centuries-old tradition of per-fume. Oud derived from the wood of the Agar tree has long been one of the most precious ingredients – more valuable even than gold – and lends this fragrance its inimitable presence. The luminous golden warmth of resin marries with a striking woodiness, richly contrasted with smokiness. With its refined and elegant charac-ter, agarwood makes a statement.

• Any journey in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can be celebrated in style with two high-quality, handcrafted champagne flutes. These silver-plated flutes have been made for the on-board bar by Robbe & Berking, silversmiths in Flensburg, Germany. The prestigious company has a long tradition and well over half of the 200 largest yachts in the world carry silver from Robbe & Berking. Fine restau-rants around the globe with several hundred Michelin stars between them are also customers of this luxury brand.

• As standard the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is fitted with a panoramicsliding sun-roof. This roof system and its large glass areas make for an especially bright and friendly ambience in the interior. It consists of a fixed panoramic glass roof in the rear section and a top-sliding power sunroof so that the interior can be ventilated as desired. For the first time, the sliding sunroof is optionally available with op-tional MAGIC SKY CONTROL technology from Mercedes-Benz: the glass can be switched to light or dark at the touch of a button.

• Small roller sunblinds for the triangular windows in the C-pillar reflect the great attention to detail. Together with the electric roller sunblinds in the rear doors, they protect passengers in the rear from prying eyes and direct sunlight if desired. When not in use, the roller sunblinds for the triangular windows are concealed out of sight in the side panels.

• The continuous business console, part of the optional First-Class rear suite, is lon-

ger than in the normal S-Class and offers extra stowage space.



• A range of exclusive paintwork will be available as an option for the Mer-cedes-Maybach S-Class. These paint finishes are produced as part of a “Manufak-tur” process (hand-finishing section) at the plant in Sindelfingen. After the first clear coat is applied, the surface of all vehicles is roughened (intermediate sand-ing) and then a second and final clear coat is painted on. This adds extra depth to the paint finish.

• In addition to the leather options for the S-Class, a designo roof liner in nappa leather is standard exclusively for the Mercedes-Maybach. The leather trim ex-tends to sunblinds, roof grab handle, pillar trim, both vanity mirrors in the rear with diamond quilting pattern, and the frames of the Burmester 3D loudspeak-ers. Elaborate topstitching on the three interior colours of nappa leather available (black, porcelain and crystal grey) attest to the high level of craftsmanship in-volved in each vehicle’s fabrication.

“Piano lacquer flowing lines” trim will be available from mid-2015. Derived from piano lacquer trim, 0.8 mm wide lines are milled into the wood veneer to accentu-ate the form using a special “Manufaktur” (hand-finishing) process. Lighter stripes appear from the plastic layer below and create an extremely high-quality sense of visual depth. Once worked in this particular complex way, the trim is then painted with a high-gloss finish and polished. The result is discernible differentiation from standard.

Burmester sound systems: specially tuned and also set up for the rear of the vehicleThe standard Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system offers a unique opti-cal and acoustic experience. As a visual highlight, the tweeters in the mirror triangle of the driver’s door and their counterparts in the rear doors are particularly sophisti-cated in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. They rotate through 360 degrees when the head unit is turned on, moving ten millimetres towards the passengers in a spiral motion. This movement aligns the tweeters to give the optimum sound impression. If the ambient lighting is switched on, the tweeters are illuminated in one of the sev-en available colours. The Burmester high-end 3D surround sound system provides its unrivalled listening experience by virtue of 24 high-performance speakers and 24 separate amplifier channels with a total output of 1540 watts. Its intelligent combi-nation of analogue and digital amplifier technologies leads to an unparalleled mix of fine, natural sounds and high power reserves.



Popular with buyers and the media: the S-Class’s successJust a short time after the model change, the new S-Class has already taken the top sales position in its segment worldwide. Since then it has consistently remained on the path of success: one year after the market launch in all core markets, Mer-cedes-Benz has delivered more than 100,000 S-Class vehicles to customers.

The car has also attracted numerous accolades from the media. For example, inter-national motoring journalists this year chose the S-Class as “World Luxury Car”. When selecting the best cars of 2014, the readers of trade journal “auto, motor und sport” declared the sedan the winner in its segment. Specialist American magazine “Ward’s Auto World” has honoured the Mercedes-Benz S-Class for its outstanding interior design. In 2013 the S-Class received the coveted title of “Car Of The Year” in China, an important sales market. That same year, 320,000 readers of AUTO BILD and COMPUTER BILD chose the S-Class as the best networked car and gave it the “Connected Car of the Year” award.

The concept: the ultimate in prestige and stylish travelAs an addition to the portfolio of S-Class sedans, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class sets new benchmarks in the luxury segment. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class melds the perfection of the S-Class with the exclusivity of Maybach. Impressive spacious-ness, elegant design and high-quality materials create an ambience of the highest



standard, particularly in the rear of the vehicle. Aspects such as premium craftsman-ship, impressive luxury, Maybach excellence, uniqueness and individualization es-tablish a connection between Mercedes-Maybach and the S-Class. Strictly speaking, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has no direct competitors because it is positioned above the existing S-Class segment but below the segment for ultra-luxury vehicles.

The Grand Mercedes: prestigious, high-end motor carsSize and style combined with technological advances and sublime comfort – these are the shared attributes of prestigious vehicles made by Daimler. Their history dates back to the earliest days of the automobile. As well as conveying passengers in maximum comfort, these luxurious high-end vehicles play an important part in helping their owners to make a dignified impression as befits their status. In terms of style they also always reflect their time. The tradition of prestige vehicles from Mercedes-Benz and the original brands has its roots in the early 20th century and initially went on to 1981 when the final Mercedes-Benz 600 left the factory build-ings in Sindelfingen. In 1991 the 600 SEL, the top-of-the-range model in the S-Class 140 model series and at the same time the first Mercedes-Benz production car with a V12 engine, brought the tradition back to life in more than name alone. By 2002, luxury sedans from the Maybach brand were maintaining the connection with pow-er in the high-end segment. In turn the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class sets another new standard.

1903: the start of a unique traditionAt the beginning of the 20th century, the Mercedes and Benz brands were already shaping the luxury automotive segment and offering customers top-of- the-range models to meet their requirements of comfort and prestige. One early example is the luxurious Mercedes-Simplex 60 hp touring coach from 1904 that Emil Jellinek, father of the brand’s namesake Mercédès Jellinek, drove on the French Riviera and caused a sensation. The Mercedes-Benz 630 continued this tradition in the 1920s followed by the 770 model known as the Grand Mercedes from 1931. Its era came to a temporary end in 1939. After the second world war the stakes had changed in Ger-many and Western Europe. People were suffering greater hardship, their needs were existential, their standards more modest. However, Chairman of the Management Board Wilhelm Haspel declared back in December 1947 that: “… what is missing is a vehicle that gold- plates the name Mercedes-Benz again.”



1951 comeback: Mercedes-Benz 300 “Adenauer”The gap was closed in 1951 with the Mercedes-Benz 300. Although nowhere near as ostentatious as the Grand Mercedes of the 1930s, this was the most spacious, com-fortable and fastest German sedan of its time and the first prestige vehicle of the post-war period. Facelifted several times, the 300 remained part of the range until 1962 and was the highly prized official car of the German Chancellor. Even today it is referred to as the “Adenauer”.

By 1963 the economic miracle was in full swing. Germany was back and this also extended to automotive engineering. The headline of a press release issued by Daim-ler-Benz AG leaves no doubt: “The ‘Super Mercedes’ model 600 – the exclusive ve-hicle for grand luxury.” It went on to say that “Mercedes-Benz is creating a link with the company’s pre-war tradition of being present in the world’s small group of out-standing prestige vehicles – in the form of a luxuriously appointed car which offers the highest degree of handling safety.” The 600 was the first Mercedes-Benz pro-duction passenger car with a V8 engine. It set standards in ride comfort and safety worldwide. With a production period of 18 years between 1963 and 1981, the model 600, alongside the SL of the 107 model series, is one of the cars that was made for the longest amount of uninterrupted time at Mercedes-Benz.



Until 2002 the top-of-the-range versions of the S-Class assumed the leading position in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio of cars. The Grand Mercedes then found its natural successor in every respect: luxury vehicles made by the Maybach brand over the next ten years. The first prototype was presented in 1997 at the Tokyo Motor Show under the name “Mercedes-Benz Maybach”. It would take 17 years for this combination of names to become a reality, though, in the guise of the 2014 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. With new highlights from 2014, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is steering the unique tradition of prestige vehicles into the future.



Hublot Ad.indd 2 1/4/15 3:18 AM

http://www.hublot.com/en/watches/new

Hublot Ad.indd 3 1/4/15 3:18 AM

http://www.hublot.com/en/watches/new

Lexus LF-C2 Concept Dazzles At The 2014 LA Auto Show

Beautiful sunshine, warm weather, and winding roads are the perfect complements to the Lexus LF-C2 concept that made its global debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show today. The LF-C2 concept is a design study in the form of a 2+2 roadster and explores key styling themes involved in the Lexus brand’s future, bolder styling di-rection. The LF-C2 is also a luxury Grand Touring concept inspired by the brand’s passion for driving.

“The LF-C2 concept shows what’s in store for our brand’s future design direction,” said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “This concept shows consumers around the world Lexus’ devotion to emotional designs as well as our passion for an exceptional driving experience.”

LEXUS LF-C2 CONCEPT


Lexus LF-C2 Concept.indd 2 1/4/15 12:07 PM

The LF-C2 concept involves a highly styled 2+2 layout, and is derived from a pure and simple sports coupe idea. Its open-air design allows the driver and passengers to feel the wind through their hair, while enjoying the car’s performance characteristics on their favorite twisty road. As a roadster concept, the LF-C2 concept does not have any kind of top covering the cabin.

The exterior styling of the LF-C2 was influenced by the way various surface shapes interact with different types of light. Designers created edges, planes and curvature that would allow the LF-C2 to exude a different character when seen from different angles and under different lighting conditions. This objective when combined with Lexus’ layered paint process results in a striking and progressive interpretation of an open top luxury GT.



The brilliant, golden yellow is produced by a multi-layer paint process. The first coat is a primer, followed by silver, a clear coat, then the yellow that reflects off the silver to give the brilliant luster. A final top coat is then applied. “We’ve been instinctively drawn to and inspired by those things that capture the beauty of light,” said Yasuo Kajino, chief designer LF-C2, Lexus Design Division. “When you put something in the right light, people see it in a way they never have before.”

The front fascia of the LF-C2 is highlighted by a more experimental expression of Lexus’ signature spindle-shaped grille. The concept’s grille features a refined braided mesh theme that exemplifies Lexus’ high level of craftsmanship and changes its ap-pearance when viewed from different angles and lighting conditions.

It sits between triangle-shaped LED headlights, a signature element of Lexus sports cars, and stylish indicator lamps that initiate the character line of the LF-C2. The character line sweeps through the car’s arrow-shaped body and ends at the abbrevi-ated rear deck. Vents in the front bumper send cool air to the brakes as well as help manage airflow through the body to help keep the front end stable at high speed.



The LF-C2’s profile shows a swooping line from the car’s front bumper fin to the steeply-angled A-pillar. Small vents in the side sills direct air to the rear brakes and out the fin-like rear diffusers. The rear end of the LF-C2 is highlighted by Lexus L-shaped taillight bulbs, an exhaust system with chrome-covered quad exhaust tips, and an expressive new rear diffuser design. The concept’s impactful stance is planted by five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels.

Step inside, and the LF-C2 treats its occupants to a luxurious and spacious cabin that flawlessly matches the sporty elegance of the exterior. The exterior extends into the cabin as the center console originates from the rear deck and runs down the length of the cabin all the way to the dashboard.

The dashboard design is presents functional simplicity with an attractive yet straightforward instrument cluster, a central video monitor controlled by a Remote Touchpad on the center console and a classically-styled analog clock placed between the central air vents. The thick leather-wrapped steering wheel implies that this is a driver’s car, as do the form-fitting seats.



The LF-C2’s interior designers opted to instill a balanced atmosphere of power and simplicity that harmonizes with our primary senses. White-and-gray leather surfaces are soft to the touch while LED lights that run along the length of the interior below the windows. The inviting cabin of the LF-C2 blends the open-air excitement that results from an eye-catching roadster blended with a heavy dose of Lexus luxury.

LF-C2 Specifications

Length 4,715 mm 185.6 inches__________________________________Width 1,840 mm 72.4 inches__________________________________Height 1,385 mm 54.5 inches



W WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM | 146


Audi Takes To The Race Track With The Sportiest Piloted Driving Car In The World

Audi has developed the world’s sportiest piloted driving car. Following the spec-tacular drive by the Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept at the German Touring Car Masters (DTM) season finale in Hockenheim, the innovative technology platform is now making an appearance on the challenging circuit of the Ascari Race Resort – at racing speed, without a driver.

“We are pressing forward with one of the most important trends in the automotive world with our technical solutions for piloted driving,” says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hack-enberg, Board Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG. “We presented the sheer fascination of this development at the DTM race in Hockenheim.

Audi RS 7C O N C E P T////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////


Audi RS 7 Concept.indd 2 1/4/15 3:26 AM

Now we are demonstrating just what this technology platform is capable of on a cir-cuit that is famous for an even more challenging profile with a wide variety of bends and chicanes. This will clearly reinforce the technical achievements of the Audi engi-neers once more.”

Audi has long been a driving force in the area of highly automated driving. The brand’s development efforts have produced a number of spectacular feats. In 2010, for instance, a driverless Audi TTS conquered the legendary Pikes Peak mountain race circuit in Colorado, USA. Audi has time and again showcased the potential of the technology with demonstrations at the limit. With 560 hp and a top speed of 305 km/h (189.5 mph), the Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept car exemplifies Vorsprung durch Technik.



The Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept car on the race trackThe Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept car is a technology platform with which Audi is exploring the possibilities of piloted driving at its most dynamic. The large, five-door coupe is largely identical to the production model, but its electro-mechanical power steering, the brakes, the throttle valve and the eight-speed tiptronic that dis-tributes the power to the mechanical quattro drive system are controlled automati-cally.

There are two primary technological considerations during piloted driving at the physical limit: the highly precise orientation of the vehicle on the road and absolute control of the vehicle at the handling limits.

The technology platform uses specially corrected GPS signals for orientation on the track. Accurate down to a centimeter, these differential GPS data are transmitted to the vehicle via WLAN according to the automotive standard and redundantly via high-frequency radio. Parallel to this, 3D camera images are compared in real time against graphical information stored on board. The system searches in each of the countless individual images for several hundred known features, such as building patterns behind the track, which it then uses as additional positioning information.



Control of the vehicle at the handling limits is another outstanding feature of the Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept car. Comprehensive on-board networking cou-pled with the highly precise control of all actors relevant to driving enable the technology platform to drive at the physical limits. The Audi engineers intensively investigated piloted driving at the handling limits, putting the technology platform through several thousand test kilometers on a variety of routes.

To demonstrate its capabilities on the race circuit, the Audi RS 7 piloted driving con-cept car drives a clean ideal line – with full throttle on the straights, precisely me-tered deceleration at the ideal braking point before the corners, precise turn-in and perfectly metered acceleration when exiting the corners. Forces of over 1.3 g occur during braking, and lateral acceleration in the corners can reach 1.1 g.

On the track in Hockenheim, the RS 7 piloted driving concept reached a maximum 240 km/h (149.1 mph). Its top speed is 205 km/h (127.4 mph) in Ascari. With its challenging ascents and descents, tight chicanes and banked bends, the Ascari cir-cuit poses an even greater challenge for the technology of the Audi RS 7 piloted driv-ing concept. As well as high longitudinal and lateral acceleration, this track subjects the car to dynamic axle load changes.

The race track is also the most demanding test bed for production when it comes to piloted driving. The future systems must also work extremely precisely and with zero errors in critical situations. They therefore must be capable of properly assessing the current situation even at the physical limit. This test bed provides the Audi engineers with a variety of insights for production development, such as for the development of automatic avoidance functions in critical driving situations.

Piloted driving – highlightsAudi has been working intensively on the subject of “piloted driving” for many years now. The development efforts have produced numerous spectacular driving feats – on public roads, on the race track and even on a salt bed.

2009: Bonneville Salt FlatsIn fall 2009, Audi took to the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, USA, with a driverless Audi TTS. Driving in precise curves, the white coupe carved the brand’s four rings into the salt bed. It also set a new speed record for piloted driving cars of 130 mph (approx. 210 km/h).



As homage to former Audi rally driver Michèle Mouton, the technology platform was dubbed “Shelley.” Its specific data technology was developed jointly by Audi, Volkswagen and the Center for Automotive Research at Stanford University in Cali-fornia.

2010: Pikes PeakThe next year, the piloted driving “Shelley” conquered the legendary Pikes Peak mountain race circuit in Colorado, USA. The technology platform covered the 20 ki-lometer (12.4 mi) course with a total of 156 corners in roughly 27 minutes, reaching a top speed of 45 mph (72 km/h). Navigation was already via differential GPS and accurate to just a few centimeters.



2012: Thunderhill Race TrackIn 2012, Audi garnered its initial experience with the Audi TTS on a race track – the Thunderhill Race Track north of Sacramento, California. The lap time on the rough-ly three-mile (nearly five kilometers) course was under 2 minutes and 30 seconds. The tests were focused on how a piloted driving car behaves at high loads and under extreme conditions.

2013: Las VegasThe authorities in the US state of Nevada made the Audi the world’s first automobile maker to receive a permit to operate piloted driving cars in public traffic. In January 2013 and 2014, the brand presented new systems for piloted driving in traffic jams and for piloted parking at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. International trade journalists were on board both times.

2014: Florida and CaliforniaAudi is rapidly expanding its testing competence for piloted driving in the USA. This summer, the brand was once again the world’s first automobile maker to conduct a public test on the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway outside Tampa, Florida. The company this fall received the first test license under the new regulations in California, where test drives on the freeways are now generally permitted.



Piloted driving – future production technologyThe production technologies for piloted driving currently under development at Audi will make their way into cars before the end of this decade. The new systems will then take over the driving in certain situations, such as in traffic jams or when parking, making it even more convenient and safe.

Piloted driving in traffic jamsIn the future, the “traffic jam pilot” will help Audi drivers by taking over the steering at speeds between 0 and 60 km/h (37.3 mph) in addition to accelerating and braking automatically.

To do this, the new system assesses the status of the car as well as the entire sur-roundings. If the customer activates the system, the car completely takes over lon-gitudinal and lateral guidance when it detects a traffic jam on a highway at speeds between 0 and 60 km/h (37.3 mph).

When the traffic jam pilot reaches its limits, such as when the traffic jam dissolves or the end of a divided road is reached, it prompts the driver to take over the wheel again.



A key component of the system of sensors is the radar system. As with today’s adap-tive cruise control with stop & go function, it monitors a 35-degree field in front of the car at a range of up to 250 meters (820.2 ft). A video camera with a wide angle of aperture detects the lane markings as well as pedestrians and objects, such as other vehicles and guard rails. Up to twelve ultrasonic sensors are used to monitor the im-mediate space around the car.

A new member of the sensor portfolio is the laser scanner, which delivers highly precise data at a distance of up to 80 meters (262.5 ft). Its laser diode emits near-ly 100,000 infrared light pulses per second that are invisible to the human eye. The laser scanner covers a 145-degree field on six levels. The controller computes a sur-roundings profile from the light reflections that shows both other vehicles and guard rails. The laser scanner offers key advantages. Because of its wide angle of aperture, it detects cars entering the lane very early and also remains fully functional in the dark. It can detect all types of objects, including those with a homogeneous pattern, such as fences, or with no visible structure, such as white walls.

Piloted driving for parking maneuversParking maneuvers in tight situations are unpleasant – narrow parking spaces or garages make it difficult for the driver to get in and out of the car. With the “parking pilot” system from Audi, drivers can get out and control the car remotely using the remote key fob or a smartphone. This system uses the same sensor systems as the traffic jam pilot, but also uses its four 360° cameras to generate additional key infor-mation about its surroundings.



The parking pilot offers the piloted parking function to the driver when the envi-ronmental sensors detect a suitable parking space or garage. If the driver gets out of the car, he or she needs only to press the key fob or the corresponding button on their smartphone to initiate the process. The system checks to make sure that the key is in the vicinity of the car. If the on-board sensors detect obstacles in the driving corridor during piloted parking, the car stops immediately. When the car arrives at its parking position, the system turns off the engine and locks the doors. The driver receives a confirmation message. The push of a button is likewise all that is required to retrieve the car from the garage or parking space.

The central driver assistance control unit (zFAS)Today’s driver assistance systems are usually managed by spatially separated control units. Audi, in contrast, is taking the novel approach of a central domain architec-ture. In the future, all available sensor information will flow into a central control unit (zFAS). This computes a complete model of the vehicle surroundings that is used by all of the assistance systems. The future systems for piloted driving will also draw on this redundantly computed information. The central driver assistance control board uses cutting-edge multi-core processors. All together, they have the computing power of the entire electronics architecture of today’s Audi A4. The new board currently has about the same area as a tablet PC, but its space requirements will continue to shrink. Its modular concept ensures high scalability and future via-bility. Audi will be introducing the central driver assistance control module to pro-duction along with the systems for piloted driving by the end of this decade.



Relaxed and under control– today’s driver assistance systemsAudi already offers numerous driver assistance systems to make driving more re-laxed and under control. No need is left uncovered, and the full capabilities of these systems are on display in the updated Audi A6 and Audi A7 Sportback model series.

Adaptive cruise control with stop & go functionOf all the optional driver assistance systems offered by Audi, adaptive cruise control with stop & go function including Audi pre sense front is the most complex. It reg-ulates the speed and the distance to the vehicle ahead by accelerating and braking in a range from 0 to 250 km/h (155.3 mph), and brakes automatically within certain limits. The driver can use Audi drive select to switch between four settings to specify just how comfortable or sporty the system should be. The ACC stop & go function uses data from two radar sensors, a video camera, ultrasound sensors and additional systems. In addition, it uses predictive route data from the navigation system to reli-ably calculate the proper line on the highway, even in curves. In city traffic, the ACC stop & go automatically slows the car to a stop.

Audi side assistAudi side assist including Audi pre sense rear is activated at 30 km/h (18.6 mph). Two radar sensors at the rear of the car monitor what goes on behind it. If the sys-tem detects another vehicle moving into the critical zone from behind, a yellow LED display lights up in the housing of the exterior mirror. If the driver nevertheless ac-tivates the turn signal to change lanes, the indicator becomes brighter and begins to flash quickly – a signal that is hard to miss.



Audi active lane assistAudi active lane assist employs a video camera to detect lane markings at speeds above 65 km/h (40.4 mph). If the car approaches a line without the turn signal be-ing activated, the system helps the driver to steer back into the lane by intervening gently in the electromechanical power steering. Drivers use the MMI to specify how quickly this assistance system should intervene and whether the steering wheel should vibrate as well. If the driver selects early intervention, the system also helps to keep the car in the center of the lane.

In the new Audi A6 and A7 Sportback models, Audi active lane assist works closely together with Audi side assist. If both are activated, the warning before a critical lane change is accompanied by targeted intervention in the steering.

Camera-based speed limit displayThe camera-based speed limit display recognizes speed limit signs on the side of the road, their supplemental signs and the signs canceling speed limits. It presents these as graphics on the display of the driver information system or on the optional head-up display. Software compares images supplied by the video camera with map data from the optional MMI navigation plus.



Night vision assistantAnother high-end feature is the night vision assistant. Its thermal imaging camera uses far infrared technology to “see” up to 300 meters (984.3 ft) ahead. Data is con-verted into black-and-white images that are displayed on the large driver informa-tion system screen. People and animals appear conspicuously bright on the screen due to the heat they give off, whereas the surroundings appear dark.

The software can detect people and large animals and highlights them in the display in yellow. If the computer anticipates a hazardous situation, the brake system is au-tomatically prefilled. A warning signal sounds and a red warning also appears on the driver information system’s screen and in the optional head-up display. If the car is equipped with the high-beam assistant or Matrix LED headlights, persons detected outside of town limits are illuminated with three short flashes of light.

Park assist with 360° displayAudi offers various options that make parking easy. The park assist system with 360° display uses ultrasonic sensors to locate and measure parking spaces along the side of the road at low vehicle speeds. If a sufficiently large space is found, the system takes over parallel parking at the push of a button. The driver has to apply the gas and brake. The park assist system can maneuver the car into a space either parallel or perpendicular to the road. In addition, a 360° display warns of obstacles to the sides. Front-mounted and reversing cameras are also available.



Audi pre senseThe Audi pre sense safety system is available in a number of different versions. In the standard version – Audi pre sense basic – the system intervenes immediately upon detecting an unstable driving situation via the ESC sensors. The front seat belts are electrically tensioned and the sunroof and the side windows are closed, leaving just a small gap. The vehicle’s hazard warning lights will warn the traffic behind.

The Audi pre sense front version is available in combination with ACC stop & go. This system is intended to prevent rear-end collisions – or at least reduce the conse-quences of such accidents. The integrated Audi braking guard is activated in a dan-gerous situation to warn the driver, first with an acoustic signal and a visual signal. At the same time, the brake system is prefilled and the dampers of the optional adap-tive air suspension are also set to hard.

If the driver still does not react, then the system briefly brakes the vehicle – a jolt which serves as the second warning; the belts are slightly pretensioned. If the driver depresses the brake pedal now, the hydraulic brake assist increases braking power as appropriate for the situation. Should the driver ignore the warning jolt, autonomous partial braking will be initiated – provided that the vehicle ahead is in motion De-celeration is at a rate of 3.5 m/s2. The windows and sunroof will be closed, seat belts tensioned considerably, and hazard warning lights activated.



If the car is equipped with the full version of Audi pre sense – Audi pre sense plus – a third and a fourth stage follow in the event of an emergency. The system will then increase deceleration initially to 6 m/s² and tighten the belts completely. The last braking phase – the autonomous full brake application – occurs roughly half a sec-ond before an inevitable collision. The consequences of such a collision can thus be greatly reduced.

At speeds below 30 km/h (18.6 mph), the car will brake autonomously with full force in an emergency – regardless of whether the car in front is moving or standing still. Below 20 km/h (12.4 mph), this full braking frequently prevents the accident alto-gether or greatly reduces the impact speed. Immediately after a collision, the second-ary collision brake assist helps the driver by initiating braking automatically. This re-duces the risk of skidding and additional collisions during the course of the accident. Yet another Audi pre sense subfunction, Audi pre sense rear, is coupled with Audi side assist. If the system detects an imminent rear-end collision, it uses the adaptive brake light to warn the traffic behind.

Fuel consumption of the models named above:Audi TTS:Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.5 – 6.9** (31.4 – 34.1 US mpg);Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 174 – 159** (280.0 – 255.9 g/mi)

Audi A4:Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 10.7 – 4.0** (22.0 – 58.8 US mpg); Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 249 – 104** (400.7 – 167.4 g/mi)

Audi A6:Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.6 – 4.2** (24.5 – 56.0 US mpg);Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 224 – 109** (360.5 – 175.4 g/mi)

Audi A7 Sportback:Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.5 – 4.7** (24.8 – 50.0 US mpg);Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 221 – 122** (355.7 – 196.3 g/mi)

The fuel consumption and the CO2 emissions of a vehicle vary due to the choice of wheels and tires. They not only depend on the efficient utilization of the fuel by the vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behavior and other non-technical factors.



Chevrolet Unveils Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Turismo

Chevrolet today revealed the Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Tursimo (VGT) concept – a revolutionary interpretation of the ultimate race car, developed exclusively for fans of the PlayStation 3 racing game, Gran Turismo 6. Developed as part of the Vision Gran Turismo project, which celebrates the future of automotive design and innova-tion, the Chaparral 2X VGT concept is inspired by the innovative race cars Chapar-ral Racing and Chevrolet partnered on more than 45 years ago.

Chevrolet Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Turismo Concept


Chevy Chaparral 2X Vision.indd 2 1/4/15 3:28 AM

Chevrolet Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Turismo Concept

Gamers can race the Chaparral 2X VGT this holiday season by downloading an online update for Gran Turismo 6, the latest iteration of the best-selling PlayStation franchise that has sold more than 72 million copies worldwide since its 1998 debut. “This concept is an audacious and ambitious vision – and one that demonstrates to a new audience how Chevy’s engineering and design teams challenge norms and ex-plore the technologies of tomorrow,” said Clay Dean, executive director of advanced design. “It also an ode to a unique partnership that pioneered ground-breaking tech-nologies that are used today on the track and the street.”



Known for unconventional, boundary-pushing race cars that shook up the motor-sports world, Texas-based Chaparral Racing partnered with Chevrolet Research and Development more than 45 years ago, pioneering now-standard methods and mate-rials used in contemporary racing and production vehicles, including the composite monocoque chassis, lightweight-alloy power-train systems, automatic transmissions for racing and progressive, active aerodynamics. The partnership also spawned ground-breaking vehicle data acquisition technology. Chevrolet continues to use racing programs to test and develop new technologies and materials.

The Chevrolet Chaparral 2X VGT channels that spirit of innovation into a vision of what the future of racing could hold, with a radical form and an advanced, la-ser-based propulsion system.

“It was created in a no-rules atmosphere to challenge designers and test engineers to deliver the most exhilarating sensations. This is a fantasy car by design,” said Frank Saucedo, who oversaw the team that worked on the concept. “Like the original Chaparral race cars decades ago, the Chaparral 2X VGT weaves advanced aerospace technologies into the design to help achieve its performance goals.”



The Chaparral 2X VGT’s concept propulsion system is inspired by technology de-rived from advanced work targeted at space travel and future aircraft design. It fea-tures a mid-mounted laser beamed-energy propulsion system, which pulses beams of light that focus in a shroud, creating shock waves that generate tremendous thrust in the lightweight race car.With a 671-kW laser, powered by a pack of lithium-ion batteries, and an air-powered generator to provide 900 horsepower worth of thrust, the Chaparral 2X VGT will be capable of a 240-mph top speed in the video game with 0-60 acceleration capability of 1.5 seconds. The propulsion system’s position in the composite chassis complements an unconventional yet highly active prone driver configuration – face down with the driver’s arms and legs splayed toward the wheels. In fact, the race car’s propulsion and suspension systems are built around the driver, enabling progressive strategies of active and driver-adjustable aerodynamics.

“Think of it as adapting a wing suit to a racing car, where the driver’s movements control certain aspects of the aero package,” said Saucedo. “In many ways, the Chap-arral 2X VGT is like racing wing suit, with a protective fuselage for ‘flying’ very low to the ground.”



The driver-enabled aerodynamics eliminate the need for large, conventional wings and other aero devices used to generate grip-enhancing downforce – an attribute that helps reduce the overall mass of the Chaparral 2X VGT’s minimalist structure. Only essential elements are on board, with instrumentation, for example, projected on the driver’s helmet visor.

Additionally, lightweight chassis components reduce the sprung weight of the race car, enabling the car to provide tremendous cornering grip with a relatively small footprint. It rolls on 17-inch front wheels wrapped with racing tires.



“The Chaparral 2X VGT is a vision of how advanced technology may shape the look and driving experience of racing,” said Saucedo. “Chaparral’s race cars and methods were seen as outlandish four decades ago, and with the innovative spirit still burning at Chevrolet, the Chaparral 2X Vision Gran Turismo concept might just be a harbin-ger of motorsports in the next four decades.” Other manufacturers have developed concept race cars for the Vision Gran Turismo project, but Chevrolet is one of the few to transfer it from the digital world to a physical concept vehicle.



Volvo Cars reveals The All-New Volvo XC90 R-Design

Volvo Cars has released the first images of the R-Design version of the all new XC90, aimed at buyers looking for a head-turner that radiates a truly sporty and dynamic look. “R-Design is created for people with a passion for things that add spice to life,” said Alain Visser, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Customer Service of Volvo Car Group. “It appeals to customers that love active driving and a personal, expressive design. Every single R-Design detail is designed to contribute to the indi-vidualistic and refined expression these customers desire.”

Volvo XC90R-Design


Volvo XC90.indd 2 1/4/15 3:29 AM

The visual promise of a dynamic ride is confirmed by the driver-centric interior featuring R-Design sports seats in Nubuck textile and perforated leather. A choice of Drive-E powertrains offering up to 400 hp and the completely new XC90 chassis ensure an agile driving experience.

The release of the R-Design follows Volvo’s release of 1,927 individually numbered black First Edition XC90’s which were offered for sale exclusively online and sold out in 47 hours.



Distinctive R-Design detailingThe R-Design exterior includes a number of distinguishing details, such as grille, front spoiler, silk metal window trim, integrated dual tailpipes, bright roof rails and mirror covers in matte silver. 20-inch or optional 22-inch R-Design alloy wheels complete the stylish, dynamic look.

Inside, the sports seats and perforated leather steering wheel are accompanied by special R-Design details, such as gearshift knob, pedals, floor mats and illuminated tread plates. The driver also gets an exclusive R-Design leather key remote control.

Tablet-like touch screenThe tablet-like touch screen in the centre and a 12.3-inch fully graphical driver dis-play are of course included in the R-Design. The driver display also features a unique R-Design theme. The heart of the all-new in-car control is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to operate their car and access a range of Internet and cloud based products and services.

New trim level strategyR-Design is one of four choices in Volvo Cars’ reinvented trim level strategy, which resembles a tree with two branches. Kinetic is the base, followed by the very compet-itive Momentum level.



Inscription and R-Design form the two branches on the tree. The Inscription pack-age is designed for customers that want an elegant look and a luxurious experience, while R-Design has a sporty and dynamic aura. “In principle, we have replaced the previous top level with the Inscription and R-Design versions. Both of them feature an elevated content, carefully chosen to emphasise each of their distinctive individu-al personalities,” said Alain Visser.

Volvo Cars introduces Twin Engine technology in world’s most powerful and clean-est SUV The first Volvo designed from the ground up for plug-in/electrification compati-bility, the XC90 T8 delivers all the performance of a luxury SUV, but with emission levels that even small hybrid cars struggle to match. When designing the XC90 T8, Volvo Cars chose not to compromise on performance, driving pleasure, efficiency or even luggage space. By building on the new modular Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform and successful Drive-E petrol powertrain, the company has created a uniquely roomy 7-seater SUV that delivers 400hp/640Nm combined with ultra-low emissions (59g/km) and high fuel efficiency (2.5 l/100km). The fuel economy ac-cording to the U.S. driving cycle is 59 MPGe. “The XC90 T8 is a plug-in electric car, hybrid car and high-performance car rolled into one,” says Dr Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development of Volvo Car Group. “The Drive-E engines already offer highly competitive perfor-mance versus the competition. The T8 takes it further into a leading position.”



A driving mode for every needThe XC90 T8 can go from 0 to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds, delivering all the driving pleasure customers have come to expect from a Volvo SUV. But driving pleasure is only a fraction of what the XC90 T8 offers: the car has five different driving modes that deliver a range of performance and efficiency-enhancing characteristics. Using either a scroll wheel on the centre console or a touchscreen on the dashboard, driv-ers can choose from:

Hybrid: This is the default mode, suitable for everyday use. Here, the vehicle will automatically alternate between drawing power from the 2-litre, 4-cylinder Drive-E engine and the electric motor to deliver the best overall fuel consumption.

Pure electric: In this mode, when the high-voltage battery is fully charged, it serves as the car’s sole energy source, powering the electric motor over the rear axle. The XC90 T8 has a range of more than 40km using just electricity, which covers the total distance most people drive in one day. And thanks to the regenerative braking sys-tem, this mode is super-efficient in the stop-and-go traffic of city environments. If more power is needed, the Drive-E combustion engine starts up automatically.



Power mode: Here, drivers get the combined performance of the combustion engine and the electric motor. On start-up, the SUV takes advantage of the electric motor’s superior response and instant torque curve, while the combustion engine gets up to speed. This combination offers better torque at lower revs, equivalent to that of a large displacement engine like the V8. AWD: This mode offers constant all-wheel drive on demand. The advantage of being able to select AWD manually is that the driver can use it when needed, or choose to save energy for later. Save: If the battery is charged, this mode allows the driver to “freeze” the battery lev-el and save it for later use with Pure Electric drive. On the other hand, if the battery is low, the driver can use the combustion engine to charge the battery to a certain level for later use with Pure Electric drive.



Under the shellMany of the XC90 T8’s powertrain features have been optimised specifically for hy-brid technology. Here are the main components of the system: Drive-E engineA specially modified version of the 4-cylinder Drive-E petrol engine is under the hood. Already known for its ability to more efficiently deliver the power of an engine twice its size, the Drive-E engine is enhanced in the XC90 T8 by a supercharger and a turbocharger for a total power output of 318hp and 400Nm torque.

Automatic gearboxThe 8-speed automatic gearbox has also been specially adapted for the hybrid: shift-by-wire technology allows drivers to control the transmission electrically (a luxuri-ous touch is the gearshift is made of handmade Swedish crystal). A larger oil pump provides the necessary lubrication during electric drive and enables quicker pressure build-up when seamlessly going from electric to combustion drive.

CISGThe crankshaft-mounted starter generator (CISG), located between the engine and the gearbox, performs three important functions: it is a powerful, 34kW starter mo-tor that allows the car to go from pure electric drive to combination combustion drive seamlessly, so drivers can experience the car’s petrol engine and electric motor as one unit; it is also a powerful electric generator; and finally, it acts as an electric engine booster, working with the supercharger and turbocharger when extra power is needed, providing up to 150 Nm of extra torque. BatteryThe high-voltage (270–400V) battery, delivering 65kW of power, is an excellent example of Volvo’s success with the XC90 T8. While other carmakers have struggled to combine the bulk of a battery pack with a luxurious and spacious interior, Volvo has managed to overcome this challenge by placing the battery centrally in the tun-nel of the car. There are several advantages to this position. For example, the battery does not impact the amount of available space inside the car. This means that there is room for three rows of seats – plenty of space for people and luggage. Furthermore, the battery placement gives the SUV a low and central centre of gravity, making the XC90 T8 easier to handle and safer to drive.



Rear electric motorDelivering 82hp (60kW) and 240Nm torque, the large electric motor sits on the rear axle and drives the back wheels in electric and power-boost modes. The rear place-ment is significant because it allows for a larger motor, which is useful for following stop-and-go city traffic rhythms. This placement also makes efficient all-wheel drive possible because each axle has its own power source.

Two-step braking systemThe XC90 T8 blended braking system partly uses brake-by-wire technology to re-cover and transmit energy back into the car, either to recharge the battery or for immediate use. The system is also equipped with a unique stability function that controls the amount of energy that may be safely regenerated. Unique cooling and climate systemThe unique cooling system is composed of two extra circuits. The first cools the CISG and the large electric motor on the rear axle, while the second cools the bat-tery in one of two ways: either passively, via the radiator, or actively through integra-tion with the car’s climate system. Pre-conditioningFor convenience and efficiency, drivers can pre-condition the XC90 T8’s drivetrain, battery and cabin, either directly from within the car or by using the Volvo On Call mobile app. This ensures that, whether it’s freezing or hot and humid outside, the car will be heated or cooled as necessary and ready to go by the time the driver enters. Pre-conditioning can be done while the car is plugged in, which is beneficial from a CO2 perspective since it ensures that the battery will last as long as possible in Pure Electric Drive mode. A heritage of innovationAs the world’s most powerful and cleanest SUV, the XC90 T8 joins a long list of Vol-vo Cars innovations designed to create a more comfortable driving experience, a cleaner environment and safer roads.



W W W . E M G A U T O . C O M

QUALITY PRE-OWED VEHICLES

DOWNPAYMENT

DEPOSIT$0$0

EMG autosales-AD.indd 2 1/4/15 5:37 AM

www.emgauto.com

NO PAYMENTS UNTIL APRIL 15TH,2015

FINANCINGAVAILABLE

1.69%APR

All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. The price for listed vehicles as equipped does not include charges such as: License, Title, Registration Fees, State or Local Taxes, Dealer Prep, Smog Fees, Credit Investigation, Optional Credit Insurance, Physical Damage of Liability Insurance, or Delivery Fees. DEALER makes no representations, expressed or implied, to any actual or prospective purchaser or owner of this vehicle as to the existence, ownership, accuracy, description or condition of the listed vehicle’s equipment, accessories, price, specials or any warranties. Any and all differences must be addressed prior to the sale of this vehicle. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

EMG autosales-AD.indd 3 1/4/15 5:37 AM

Maserati’s Quattroporte GTS And Alfieri 2+2 Concept Car Steals LA Auto Show

Maserati Celebrates its 100th Anniversary with Record-breaking Sales and Robust MY 2015 Product Line-Up

At the Los Angeles Auto Show, Maserati took center stage presenting its complete MY 2015 range including the sportingly redefined Quattroporte GTS and sensa-tional Alfieri 2+2 concept, which made its Los Angeles, California premiere and impressed audiences around the world. The highly praised Ghibli performance se-dan and Centennial Edition GranTurismo MC coupe and convertible, also on show, continues for MY2015 after launching to tremendous success.179| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Maserati Alfferi Salone.indd 2 1/4/15 3:32 AM

In partnership with the Petersen Automotive Museum, Maserati revealed a vintage 1963 Quattroporte (Tipo 107), the world’s first super sedan and one of the oldest Quattroportes in existence. Designed by Pietro Frua to drive every day in luxury, the original Quattroporte was well poised alongside the new generation Quattroporte offering a glimpse of Maserati’s century-long history of engineering expertise and timeless style in honor of its 100th birthday.



Harald Wester, CEO of Maserati was on hand to showcase the best of the Trident’s cutting edge automotive design. “This is an exhilarating time for Maserati as we are on the cusp of such dynamic product enhancements and look back at 100 years of automotive history. With such a robust product plan ahead of us, we remain resolute in our pursuit of unearthing ‘the absolute opposite of ordinary’ in everything we do” stated Wester. “The Alfieri concept is a product of that steadfast commitment.”

2014 continues to be a very significant year for Maserati as it celebrates—in addition to its 100th Anniversary—the most comprehensive, best-selling product range in the history of the company. It has been a record breaking year, particularly for Masera-ti North America, Inc., Maserati’s global market leader. The company posted a 253 percent year-over-year increase this October; its twenty-first consecutive month of sales increases in the Americas with 2014 results have far exceeded those for 2012 and 2013 combined.



Maserati North America, Inc. continues to expand, with 100+ dealers across North America, nearly doubling its stores since 2013. California remains a market leader among Florida and the Tri-State area. With a total of seventeen dealerships across California, which are mostly mono-brand Maserati stores, the growth has been ex-ponential. Maserati is the perfect fit for California where the car culture is so strong and customization is highly sought after.

QUATTROPORTE GTS AND QUATTROPORTE S Q4Now on sale, the 2015 Quattroporte range includes enhancements and added stan-dard equipment for both S Q4 and GTS. The top range Quattroporte GTS, with 530 HP from its potent twin-turbo V8 powering the rear wheels – benefits from a sport-ier and aggressive appearance, heightening its dominance on the road while further differentiating its position at the very top of the range.

Aesthetically, the vehicle’s exterior has been upgraded by revising its color scheme: the front spoiler, lower side sills and lower rear bumper are now matched to the car’s body. The front grille surround is finished in gloss black. The front trident and side saetta badges have been introduced with red accents to underscore this high perfor-mance model along with a GTS badge on the rear decklid. Further enhancements include 20” light weight forged alloy wheels finished in anthracite grey with center caps featuring a red trident logo. The narrow wheel spokes allow a good view of the red anodized brake calipers, which are exclusive to the GTS.



The GTS interior has been upgraded with Poltrona Frau premium leather with con-trast stitching and Black Piano trim. More interior details include a GTS badge add-ed to the dial of the dashboard clock and an embroidered GTS logo of the drivers’ side floor mat.

The 2015 Quattroporte S Q4 – with 410 HP, state-of-the-art twin-turbo V6 engine and standard all-wheel drive- the selection of options has been expanded to include three new paint finishes. Grigio(medium grey), Grigio Maratea (Dark Grey) and Bianco Alpi, a pearlescent white finish. Two new wheels become available: 19” Apol-lo wheel with a diamond-smoothed, matt transparent anthracite finish and 20” GTS design wheel in silver finish. A wider selection of interior features is available includ-ing contrast stitching, red leather upholstery and Black Piano Lacquered trim. Wi-fi in vehicle hotspot also becomes standard on the Quattroporte range.

ALFIERI 2+2 CONCEPTCreated to commemorate Maserati’s Centennial, the Alfieri—which takes its name from Alfieri Maserati, the most prominent of the Maserati brothers—explores the stylistic heritage of the brand and anticipates future design trends. A sleek, Italian style 2+2, today’s Alfieri is at the concept stage, yet poised for reality: it was created, designed and built with this goal in mind. This concept interprets Maserati’s most iconic signatures: restyled triple air ducts on the wheel arches; the Trident emblem in a central position on the front grille; the “Saetta” logo on the rear pillar; and forged wheels whose spoke design gives a nod to the Trident profile. The designers’ brief was simplicity and minimalism with a “kick of poetry” to create the comfort-ably sized 2+2 seat passenger compartment while emphasizing the racing nature of the brand.

Poltrona Frau aniline leather has been generously used for the interior, matched with copper, aluminum and other materials reminiscent of oxidized steel, commonly used in the racing cars of the Fifties. Vintage racing also inspires the wraparound design of the seats, offset by their futuristic look and modern structure. One of the most fascinating cars of all times designed by Pininfarina in 1954, the A6GCS proved a valuable source of inspiration for the designers of the Alfieri concept of today.

GRANTURISMO MC STRADALE AND GRANCABRIO MC CENTENNIAL EDITIONThese models are launched as tributes to the first 100 years of Maserati history, in line with the sporting spirit that has traditionally identified the brand. Both models



are available in three new tri-coated color combinations which include Rosso Mag-ma and Blu Inchiostro, a modern interpretation of the Maserati shield colors and also represent the traditional colors of Bologna, Maserati’s birthplace founded in 1914. The wheel range includes as many as four different versions for two available designs, MC and Trofeo design. Specially designed center caps integrate the Centen-nial medallion logo, available in two finishes: Matt Smoke grey and Charcoal grey according to wheel style and color.

The Centennial Special Editions come with a wide range of interior options with a contrasting decorative insert based on the three colors (red, white and blue) of the seat profiles. The same motif also extends to the headrests and surrounds the em-broidered Trident logo. The sporty look of the interior is enhanced by carbon fiber inserts on the dashboard, seat surrounds and by a kick plate on which the celebra-tory Centennial logo takes pride of place.

The GranTurismo MC Centennial Edition is powered by the 460 HP 4.7 liter nat-urally aspirated V8 engine that first appeared in the GranTurismo MC. Combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission, performance and balance is superb with a top speed of 185 mph, together with the assured stopping power of Brembo Du-al-Cast brakes. In keeping with Maserati’s philosophy, the new GranTurismo MC also capitalizes on the progress made by the previous model in terms of reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

These 2015 celebratory models, The Centennial Editions of the GranTurismo MC coupe and convertible complement the current Maserati range.



The new 2015 Chrysler 300 Debuts At The 2014 Los Angeles Auto ShowNew 2015 Chrysler 300: Return of the Big, Bold American Sedan with World-class Levels of Sophistication, Craftsmanship and Technology, Once Again Putting Boule-vards and Interstates On Notice.

2015 Chrysler 300C & 300S


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 2 1/4/15 3:38 AM

2015 Chrysler 300C & 300S

The new 2015 Chrysler 300 highlights six decades of ambitious American ingenu-ity through iconic design proportions inspired by historic 1955 and 2005 models – world-class quality, materials and refinement, best-in-class V-6 highway fuel econo-my, plus segment-exclusive innovations – all at the same $31,395 starting price as its predecessor.


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 3 1/4/15 3:38 AM

With roots that include the breakthrough 1955 and 2005 models, the new 2015 Chrysler 300 takes the nameplate’s style and sophistication to new levels and high-lights six decades of ambitious American ingenuity through iconic design propor-tions and inspired materials, world-class quality and craftsmanship, best-in-class 31 miles per gallon (mpg) highway fuel economy, plus class-exclusive innovations including a state-of-the-art TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission now standard on every model, the segment’s most advanced all-wheel drive (AWD) system, award-winning Uconnect Access services, all-new and segment-exclusive 7-inch full color driver information display (DID) and the newest generation Uconnect systems putting boulevards and interstates on notice once again.

“Our new 2015 Chrysler 300 builds on its 60-year legacy of delivering world-class performance, elegance, sophistication, technology and craftsmanship a combination that can only be found in our big, bold and proudly American rear-wheel-drive se-dan,” said Al Gardner, President and CEO – Chrysler Brand. “Beyond its head-turn-ing iconic proportions and even more commanding Chrysler front-end and grille, our new 300 is designed to reward hard-working individuals by delivering class-ex-clusive technologies, premium appointments and levels of quality of sedans costing thousands more.”


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 4 1/4/15 3:38 AM

• New Chrysler 300 sedan’s iconic and unmistakable exterior proportions are now crafted with even more sculptural and expressive style for 2015, with a bolder “face of Chrysler” front grille, signature LED lighting, unique finishes and new wheel designs

• New Chrysler 300C Platinum model features quilted Nappa leather, hand-sanded wood, ultra-premium Poltrona Frau leather-wrapped instrument panel and con-sole, plus platinum-chrome exterior details and 20-inch wheels – all at an attain-able value

• All-new interior design elements include a standard 7-inch full-color driver in-formation display (DID) and class-exclusive electronic rotary transmission shift-er, plus Chrysler brand’s new three-spoke steering wheel with larger vehicle con-trols and available die-cast paddle shifters

• Class-exclusive TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, now standard on every model, balances V-8 performance with segment-leading 31 mpg highway fuel efficiency

• Best-in-class V-6 highway fuel economy with 3.6-liter Pentastar engine

• Best-in-class V-6 and V-8 driving range

• Unsurpassed V-6 combined fuel economy

• Up to 6 percent fuel economy improvement, plus improved acceleration and re-finement, with 363 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 5 1/4/15 3:38 AM

• New 2015 Chrysler 300 Limited provides customers the most standard appoint-ments in the nameplate’s 60-year history, including the TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission, heated leather seating, Uconnect with voice commands and the seg-ment’s largest 8.4-inch touchscreen, SiriusXM Radio, full-color DID cluster, five-year/100,000 mile warranty coverage with roadside assistance and more – starting at $31,395

• New 2015 Chrysler 300S model features unique blacked-out accents, large 20-inch Hyper Black finish wheels, more athletically sculpted side sills, unique deck-lid spoiler and a higher output Pentastar V-6 engine with 300 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque, plus Sport mode and paddle-shifting capabilities now as quick as 250 milliseconds

• New for 2015, the “Sport” button enables sport-tuned steering; pedal, engine and transmission calibration; plus rear-biased torque on AWD models for more dy-namic handling

• New suite of Uconnect features, including the award-winning Uconnect Access system, Uconnect Access services with roadside assistance, theft-alarm notifi-cation, voice texting, the latest 3-D navigation on the segment’s largest 8.4-inch touchscreen and the ability to turn the Chrysler 300 into a Wi-Fi hotspot

• New advanced technological solutions include electric power steering and cast-aluminum axles and housing to reduce energy demand, weight and parasitic friction

• More than 80 available safety and security features, including new for 2015 Full-speed Forward Collision Warning-Plus, Adaptive Cruise Control-Plus with Full Stop, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist and 9-1-1 call/Assist Call

• Production for the new 2015 Chrysler 300 sedan begins in the fourth quarter of 2014 at the Brampton (Ontario) Assembly Plant in Canada


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 6 1/4/15 3:38 AM

Heritage-inspired styling combined with world-class execution make the new Chrysler 300 stand apart from the competition Building on its 48 percent sales increase over the last four years, the new 2015 Chrysler 300 sedan arrives to the market with unmistakable styling and world-class engineering, quality and technology that is designed to exceed expectations and rival luxury import competitors in premium segments priced thousands higher.

With the Chrysler development team’s determination to set the 300 apart from the competition, the brand’s new sedan proudly makes the following segment claims (upper large car segmentation):


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 7 1/4/15 3:38 AM

Best-in-class V-6 highway fuel economy •Best-in-class V-6 driving range •Best-in-class V-8 driving range •Best-in-class V-8 horsepower •Best-in-class V-8 torque •Best-in-class interior volume •Best-in-class rear seat volume •Unsurpassed V-6 combined fuel economy •Most technologically advanced vehicle in its class •Most technologically advanced (AWD) system in its class •Class-exclusive front axle disconnect with active transfer case •Most luxurious vehicle in its class (Chrysler 300C) •Segment’s largest touchscreen display •Segment’s largest dual-pane sunroof available •Class-exclusive TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission •Chrysler 300 is the only vehicle in segment to offer V-6 or V-8 engine witha standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission •Class-exclusive available illuminated dual heated and cooled cup holders •Class-exclusive electronic rotary transmission shifter

Lifestyle driven models highlight the Chrysler 300 sedan’s broad appeal Building on the success of the Chrysler 300 sedan’s lifestyle driven models, the line-up has been revamped for 2015 with four highly equipped models:

• 300 Limited — U.S. MSRP $31,395 (plus $995 destination)• 300S — U.S. MSRP $34,895 (plus $995 destination)• 300C — U.S. MSRP $37,895 (plus $995 destination)• 300C Platinum — U.S. MSRP $42,395 (plus $995 destination)

Bold American design that has broken the segment model for six decades Confident looks, expressive materials and world-class execution make the new 2015 Chrysler 300 stand apart from the competition.191| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

2015 Chrysler 300.indd 8 1/4/15 3:38 AM

At the front of the new 2015 Chrysler 300, a redesigned fascia features a more sculp-tured surface, taller more prominent grille with a unique dimensional texture and chrome grille surround. The grille contains the Chrysler wing badge, which appears to float within the dramatic grille texture and highlights the new “face of Chrysler.” Nestled below the upper grille is an elegantly drawn chrome Mobius strip, which outlines the lower grille opening and extends outward, surrounding the new op-tional LED fog lamps. This new detail reinforces the Chrysler brand’s new design direction and provides the Chrysler 300 with even more visual presence. Bi-func-tional projector beam headlamps are available with adaptive forward lighting (AFL) to better illuminate road curves ahead, while integrated LED-illuminated daytime running lamps (DRL) form a “C” shape for unmistakable brand identity. New LED fog lamps are available and provide a consistent white illumination at the front.

From the side, unmistakably strong, yet subtly executed shoulder lines pay homage to the Chrysler 300 series design heritage and define the correlation between front and rear wheel arches. A high beltline stays true to the Chrysler 300 sedan’s signa-ture proportion, while its elegantly tailored chrome side window surrounds and available chrome mirrors hint at the luxurious interior within. Seven new wheel de-signs, ranging from 17 inches to wider and wheel-well-filling 20 inches, provide the new 2015 Chrysler 300 with a planted, road-holding look.


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 9 1/4/15 3:38 AM

Finishing the new Chrysler 300 sedan’s powerful rear stance is a new sculpted LED taillamp with an illuminated halo, providing a unique signature appearance. A re-styled rear fascia has a more fluid surface and features a tailored chrome fascia trim accent. Below, a new lower valance in black provides visual width and lightens the appearance of the sedan. Last, a pair of elegantly drawn, polished exhaust tips are placed in the corners to give the Chrysler 300 an upscale athletic appearance. These key design elements provide a visual tie to the all-new Chrysler 200 sedan, while keeping each models’ unique personality.

An interior wrapped in American style with world-class materials, craftsmanship and technologyInside the new 2015 Chrysler 300 passengers will be immersed in a sophisticated blend of hand-sculpted fluid shapes, high-quality and innovative material choices inspired by American cities, precision craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology and thoughtful, clever features. When designing the new 2015 Chrysler 300, the team incorporated unique design elements and utilized authentic materials to cre-ate an interior identity that is comfortable yet beautiful – and one that could only be born in Detroit.


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 10 1/4/15 3:38 AM

La Jolla, California – Indigo / Linen •As the pinnacle of the Chrysler brand’s lineup, the new 300C Platinum offers an all-new and exclusive two-tone Indigo/Linen interior inspired by La Jolla’s ocean views lined by sandy expanses and unexpected coves. This sedan’s interi-or environment features segment-exclusive use of quilted and perforated Nap-pa leather on front and rear seats. Highlighting this sedan’s world-class level of craftsmanship and comfort are premium Nappa leather door panels with ex-clusive quilted inserts. Once limited to exotic sedans priced tens of thousands more, ultra high-end Foligno leather from Italian leather expert, Poltrona Frau, wraps the instrument panel and sides of the center console and is fin-ished with French accent stitching. A two-tone Indigo/Linen leather-wrapped steering wheel is hand-stitched together and includes die-cast paddle shifters and a unique chrome accent ring to highlight the segment-exclusive 360-de-gree heated rim. Completing the interior environment is specially selected and hand-sanded natural pore wood stained in a matte-Mocha finish for greater beauty •Model: Chrysler 300C Platinum


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 11 1/4/15 3:38 AM

Manhattan, New York – Black •The high-fashion and rock-‘n’-roll edge of Fifth Avenue in New York City was the inspiration for the Black leather interiors available in every Chrysler 300 model. Bright Chrome and Satin Chrome accents highlight the Black leather environment. Model specific use of hydrographic and stitching accents include Charcoal Metallic and black stitching (300 Limited) and Matte Carbon and Sil-ver stitching (300S), while real Black Olive Ash Burl wood with bronze stitch-ing is standard on 300C models. For a bespoke look, specially selected and hand-sanded natural pore wood is stained in a matte-Mocha finish and paired with Black accent stitching •Models: Chrysler 300 Limited, 300S, 300C and 300C Platinum

Detroit, Michigan – Black / Ambassador Blue •The tenacious, “never-say-die” spirit of Detroit was the inspiration for the 300S model’s exclusive Black with Ambassador Blue Nappa leather interior with industrious Silver accent stitching. For added detail, the center console armrest and door armrests are color matched to this model’s unique sport seats and feature French seamed stitching in silver. Exclusive use of Piano Black on interior center stack, instrument panel, steering wheel, gauge cluster and door panel elements provide a uniquely lacquered and highly detailed appearance. Matte Carbon hydrographic accents and die-cast paddle shifters are also in-cluded •Model: Chrysler 300S


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 12 1/4/15 3:38 AM

Sausalito, California – Black / Linen •A city that projects “oneness” with its environment – Sausalito, California was the muse for the two-tone Linen and Black interior. Inside a peaceful Zen is represented by these color choices. Bright Chrome and Satin Chrome accents highlight the environment while Charcoal Metallic hydrographic accents with black stitching and Black Olive Ash Burl wood with bronze stitching accents provide 300 Limited and 300C models with a high level of craftsmanship •Models: Chrysler 300 Limited and 300C

All-new interior design elements for the new 2015 Chrysler 300 include a standard 7-inch full-color DID cluster and class-exclusive electronic rotary transmission shift-er, plus Chrysler brand’s new three-spoke steering wheel with larger vehicle controls and available die-cast paddle shifters. In addition, the newest Uconnect systems have been added with the segment’s largest 8.4-inch touchscreen display.

Class-exclusive TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission balances V-8 perfor-mance with segment-leading 31 mpg highway fuel efficiency Once limited to sedans costing twice as much, the new 2015 Chrysler 300 now offers the innovative TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission standard on every model.


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 13 1/4/15 3:38 AM

New to the 2015 Chrysler 300S, 300C and 300C Platinum models with 5.7-liter V-8 engine is the state-of-the-art TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. By design, this gearbox provides world-class shift quality, refinement, fuel efficiency and Sport mode. Paired with this legendary engine, these Chrysler 300 models deliver 363 horsepower, 394 lb.-ft. of torque, 0-60 miles per hour (mph) in less than 6 sec-onds and class-leading performance with respect to:


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 14 1/4/15 3:38 AM

• Best-in-class V-8 driving range (EPA estimated 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway)

• Best-in-class V-8 horsepower (363 horsepower)

• Best-in-class V-8 torque (394 ft.-lb.)

New 2015 Chrysler 300 rear-wheel drive (RWD) or AWD models with the 292 horsepower (300 horsepower on 300S model) 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine contin-ue to use the TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission standard, offering class-leading fuel efficiency with respect to:

• Best-in-class V-6 highway fuel economy (31 mpg)

• Best-in-class V-6 driving range (EPA estimated 19 mpg city/31 mpg highway)

• Unsurpassed in class V-6 combined fuel economy (23 mpg)


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 15 1/4/15 3:38 AM

New Chrysler 300S model delivers more performance, athletically styled For 2015, the Chrysler 300S model is even more capable, athletic-styled and driver focused than ever.

Instantly transforming the new Chrysler 300S model’s performance and personali-ty is a revised Sport mode. By engaging Sport mode, drivers can reduce shift times from approximately 400 milliseconds to 250 milliseconds, increase engine and throt-tle responsiveness, adjust electronic stability control (ESC) settings and firm up the steering feel of the new standard electric power steering (EPS) system.

For even greater V-6 performance, the Chrysler 300S model increases the stan-dard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine’s output to 300 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque, plus adds a unique sport-tuned dual exhaust system with a more distinctive sound. To make sure the added power and precision connects the driver to the road, the 2015 Chrysler 300S chassis features a new sport-tuned suspension with in-creased damping compared to the previous year.

Outside, the new Chrysler 300S trades chrome exterior accents for unique blacked-out and body-color design details, and all-new Hyper Black finished 20-inch alu-minum wheels (19-inch with AWD). And for drivers who want even more perfor-mance and attitude, the new 2015 Chrysler 300S can be had with a 363 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, new eight-speed paddle-shifting transmission with Sport mode, and all-new uniquely sculpted side sills and deck-lid spoiler.


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 16 1/4/15 3:38 AM

Most technologically advanced vehicle in its class thanks to an array of easy-to-use, state-of-the-art advanced technology featuresFrom its updated award-winning Uconnect Access system, to the availability of Uconnect Access services with roadside assistance, theft-alarm notification, voice texting, the ability to turn the vehicle into a Wi-Fi hotspot, 3-D navigation and seg-ment-exclusive premium BeatsAudio and Harman Kardon audio systems, the 2015 Chrysler 300 delivers a slew of high-tech features for a luxurious driving experience at a value.

The Chrysler 300 sedan’s acclaimed Uconnect Access system leverages advanced em-bedded cellular technology, which enables direct, one-touch connections with emer-gency service providers, roadside assistance dispatchers and vehicle information specialists. With its available mobile phone app, Chrysler 300 owners can start their vehicle, and lock or unlock doors, while away from the vehicle. Chrysler 300 owners also can access on-demand Wi-Fi, making their car a moving hotspot.

New for 2015 Chrysler 300, Uconnect Via Mobile lets customers enjoy their person-al Internet radio accounts and stream audio content using their own mobile device data plans. It seamlessly brings four popular Internet radio apps into the Chrysler 300, including Aha by Harman, iHeartRadio, Pandora and Slacker.

Like all Uconnect-brand features, it is designed to be easy to learn and easy to use. The available navigation system accommodates one-step voice-controlled destina-tion entry and enhanced 3-D navigation map graphics, making it simple for drivers to recognize where they are and where they need to go.


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 17 1/4/15 3:38 AM

The Chrysler 300 also offers three premium audio systems designed to immerse passengers in the ultimate audio experience, including the segment-exclusive high-definition BeatsAudio system and premium Harman Kardon audio system with 18-speakers, 8-inch subwoofer and 900-watt amplifier.

New 2015 Chrysler 300 offers more than 80 safety and security features; leverages state-of-the-art driver-assist featuresIn addition to building on its “Top Safety Pick” credentials from the Insurance In-stitute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Chrysler 300 offers more than 80 safety and security features, including many that are new for 2015. New available features for the model year include Full-speed Forward Collision Warning-Plus, which provides autonomous braking and, under certain circumstances, slows or brings the vehicle to a full stop when frontal collision appears imminent.

Adaptive Cruise Control-Plus with Full Stop helps maintain distance from the vehi-cle ahead and, under certain traffic conditions, the system can bring the new 2015 Chrysler 300 to full stop without driver intervention. New Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist introduces subtle steering-wheel input to alert the driver of inadvertent lane departure and assist with corrective action.


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 18 1/4/15 3:38 AM

New for 2015, 9-1-1 call/Assist Call connects Chrysler 300 occupants directly with emergency-service providers via built-in data connection with a push of a button, a feature exclusive to Chrysler Group’s Uconnect Access service.

The vehicle’s standard Keyless Enter ’n Go activates interior lighting and enables pas-sive cabin entry and trunk access through the driver’s personalized key fob. The new Chrysler 300 also includes a standard ultrasonic security system with an anti-tilt feature, which sounds an alarm if the vehicle is towed or raised on a jack.

Enthusiast-inspired rear-wheel-drive architecture with advanced technological solu-tions The chassis of the all-new 2015 Chrysler 300 is designed, engineered and fine-tuned to deliver world-class performance and efficiencies, thanks to its advanced techno-logical solutions, which include:

• Electric power steering (EPS) •New standard EPS system provides added efficiency, added driving ease in low-speed situations and when parking, and tuned for added responsiveness during spirited driving

• All-new, lighter weight axles for RWD and AWD •All-new cast-aluminum axles and axle housing provide weight savings and help to reduce parasitic friction

• Sport mode (Included on 300S, 300C with V-8 and 300C Platinum models) •Enthusiast-desired Sport mode instantly transforms the sedan’s perfor-mance and personality by: •“S” gear selector enables sport engine and transmission calibration, more re-sponsive accelerator pedal calibration and permanent paddle-shift mode •“Sport” button enables sport-tuned steering calibration and temporary pad-dle-shift mode, in addition to sport engine and transmission calibration, and increased responsiveness of the accelerator pedal calibration. Chrysler 300S AWD and 300C Platinum AWD models benefit even more as Sport mode turns AWD “on” (if off) and enables rear-biased torque for improved dynamics •Both “S” gear and “Sport” button provide quick gear changes, reducing shift times by 37 percent (250 milliseconds versus 400 milliseconds) and can hold the desired gear without unexpected shifts, including at the redline


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 19 1/4/15 3:38 AM


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 20 1/4/15 3:38 AM


2015 Chrysler 300.indd 21 1/4/15 3:38 AM

Audi is launching into a new design era: At the Los Angeles Auto Show, Marc Lichte, Head of Design, is presenting the Audi prologue concept car. Lichte is giving the Audi brand a new styling direction in the large coupe.

“When he moved to Audi, Marc Lichte launched a design offensive,” says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Board Member for Development, who brought him to Ingol-stadt in 2014. “His clear philosophy and precise understanding of Audi DNA let him develop a design strategy that is opening up entirely new perspectives for us. It is progressive and highly emotional; it expresses the technological competence and quality claim of the brand perfectly. The Audi prologue is its first proponent – it is a ‘signature car’ for Audi.”

Audi Prologue


Audi Prologue.indd 2 1/4/15 3:40 AM

Marc Lichte himself describes the character of the show car in this way: “Audi stands for sportiness, lightweight design and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. In the Audi prologue, we are expressing this know-how in a new form – we have put the sportiest car in the luxury segment on wheels. Our team took new approaches in both exterior and interior design.”

Audi design is now expressing progressive technology even more powerfully. The two-door coupe has a flowing, elegant shape in a sporty and taut design. Its forms and lines are unmistakable and introduce many new ideas. In the clear and unob-structed interior, the architecture melds with the display and operating concept to create a new type of unit.



The entire front of the instrument panel is a large touch display, and a portion of the user interface operates with a new type of OLED display made of organic LEDs.The show car’s technology combines power, comfort and efficiency. The 4.0 TFSI produces up to 445 kW (605 hp) of power and 750 Nm (553.2 lb-ft) of torque; it accelerates the Audi prologue from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.7 seconds. Its dy-namic all-wheel steering, in which the rear wheels can turn up to five degrees, makes the large couple extremely responsive and stable while driving.

Harmonious proportions: exteriorThe Audi prologue is somewhat shorter and flatter than today’s production A8 with a length of 5.10 meters (16.7 ft), wheelbase of 2.94 meters (9.6 ft), width of 1.95 me-ters (6.4 ft) and height of 1.39 meters (4.6 ft). A dominant feature at its low front end is a Singleframe displaying the four rings that is integrated into the automobile architecture. The large radiator grille has been widened much more, and it is posi-tioned lower than on today’s production models. Its strong horizontal effect express-es an image of powerful dynamics. The cross bars have a finely structured diamond pattern, and their ends are split.



- Audi shows the benchmark of future design language in Los Angeles- Head of Development Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg: “Perfect showcase of Audi DNA”- Head of Design Marc Lichte: “A foretaste of the future of Audi”

The headlights – shaped like wide, flat wedges – are located with their tips above the Singleframe. They present high-resolution Matrix laser technology: an innovation from Audi which opens up new approaches to headlight design and enables com-pletely new functionalities. The pupils of the headlights are formed by a projection lens with a laser light source they generate a matrix that illuminates the entire street in high resolution. Hovering beneath this element are five plastic lenses that are sup-plied with light via a glass fiber bundle, which are mounted to a lightweight struc-ture and further extend the high-beam light. The new laser technology lets lighting designers create an extremely lightweight, compact and elegant eye-shaped form.

Audi quattro DNA visualizedAlso new is the sculptural form of the air intakes under the headlights – the distinc-tive air intakes have diamond pattern screens in their interiors. A dynamically con-toured blade, which is clearly separated from the bumper by a gap, elicits associa-tions to motor sport. Mounted to it are two additional spoilers in glossy black, which give the show car an even stronger and wider stance on the road.



In side profile, its flowing silhouette expresses the character of forward motion in the Audi prologue. Balanced proportions put equal emphasis on the front and rear wheels a clear reference to the quattro DNA of Audi. The powerful 22-inch wheels are set in widely flared wheel arches. They are fitted with tires of size 285/30. Each wheel’s ten intertwining Y spokes project a filigreed, three-dimensional and power-ful image.

Edges above the wheel arches refer back to the Ur-quattroA characteristic feature of the Audi prologue are the flared shoulders above the wheels, front and rear. Like the blisters of the original Audi Ur-quattro of the 1980s, they visualize the quattro drive – but they are no longer just added on, rather they are worked into the flow of the base architecture. In a side view, the shoulders form two gentle arcs above the wheels, which break up the somewhat lower shoulder line between the wheels.

The fenders, doors and rear side panels show curved muscular surfaces. The lower door area has a low concave shape that runs upwards to the rear – a motif that links to the design theme of air inlets. The side sills are drawn inward; glossy black aprons form a continuation of the front spoiler. All lines and surfaces on the Audi prologue show car are logically interrelated, which is typical Audi.

Aluminum components in hand-finished qualityThe door mirrors are small aluminum sculptures: The mirror housings in the form of a shell create a flowing transition to the window slot trim. They also integrate the open-door sensor surfaces. The doors have no handles, and they are opened electro-mechanically when the illuminated sensor surfaces are touched.



Vast areas of the stiff multimaterial body of the Audi prologue consist of aluminum and ultra-high-strength steel. The windows are framed by matt and polished alumi-num trim strips. At the end of the low roof dome, the window framing transitions into a solid surface of aluminum; its workmanship illustrates the handcraft-like manufacturing quality of Audi, and it enables lowering of the windows despite the C-pillars. This area integrates the fuel tank lid on the right side of the show car. It has an electric opening mechanism and can be lowered completely into the C-pillar by pressing a button in the interior. For enhanced convenience in refueling, the tank closure does not have a cap. The paint is a light diva gray, a new type of pearl effect paint, which has a warm and elegant appearance.

Rear section drives the whole car forwardThe rear section of the Audi prologue also breaks with conventions. It is angled in the driving direction and is reminiscent of the side and rear views of a luxurious yacht; the sickle-shaped seam between the side panel and the bumper emphasizes this dynamism. The edge of the trunk lid, which is executed as a discreet spoiler, picks up on the blister line coming from the side panel. Between the C-pillars, the rear window has a concave inward curve – it closes off the passenger compartment while enabling convenient cargo loading with the separate trunk lid. The Audi pro-logue unites the positive aspects of a saloon with the aesthetic highlights of a coupe.



The unconventional design of the LED rear lights with their 3D glass gives the tail lights all of the benefits of the new design: the new, long tail lights run across the entire width of the car. At its termination point, the light illuminates the frame of the embossed 3D form. Fine lines in the 3D glass appear to hover in the middle of the light. The brake light is located deep inside the lighting unit. When braking, the bottom of the 3D imprint is also illuminated, which makes the light appear to move towards the observer. This configuration on different levels, and the alternation be-tween 2D and 3D lighting functions lets the observer experience the tail lights in an entirely new dynamic way.

Beneath the bumper, there is a diffuser made of glossy black aluminum; like the front blade, it extends over the full width of the car as a separate, significantly re-cessed element. The diffuser integrates two trapezoid-shaped inlets which visually coordinate with the embossed tail lights and house the exhaust system tailpipes.



Luxurious and innovative: interior and operating conceptThe spacious interior of the Audi prologue is like a luxurious lounge. It is based on Gran Turismo design, and it enables both very sporty driving and relaxed touring. The interface visually adapts to the specific driving style. The interior marks the be-ginning of a new design era at Audi, in which the architecture merges with the op-erating concept to form one unit. The surfaces for displays and controls are innova-tively integrated into the instrument panel and console of the center tunnel, and the infotainment system brings driver and passenger into dialog with one another.

When entering the vehicle, the four-seat coupe receives its passengers with polite hospitality. The “butler” – an innovative intelligent software program – identifies them based on their smartphones and adjusts the seats and climate control system according to their preferences. The system also makes recommendations for music and route planning that are oriented towards the owner’s preferences. The Easy Slot system, an advanced development of the Audi phone box, is located under lids in the center console. A special mechanism networks the smartphones of passengers to the vehicle infotainment system and charges them.



Generous open interior spaceTautly stretched lines and lean geometric forms give the interior a light and clear ambience. The instrument panel has a light and elegant appearance with its strictly horizontal layout that is not interrupted anywhere, and it emphasizes the generous interior width. It lowers itself towards the interior on two levels. The upper level is positioned, like a roof, above the Audi virtual cockpit future – an advanced devel-opment of the Audi virtual cockpit – and above the line of air vents. It is part of the wrap-around – a large arc that encircles the driver and front passenger.

A second wrap-around joins the front and rear sections of the interior and is already quite visible from the exterior. The center console with its pass-through also appears to hover, as do the front seats, whose rails are mounted on the tunnel and side sills. The head restraints of the two rear bucket seats are lowered when not in use; they automatically extend when a passenger enters the rear seating area with the electric easy entry function.

When the sound system is activated, a new type of sound spoiler extends from the rear shelf; it optimally produces a premium sound in the car that is typical of Audi.

Entire front of instrument panel becomes a displayA radically new type of display and operating concept is embedded in the elegant ar-chitecture. Across its full width, the front of the instrument panel is designed to be a display surface which integrates three touch displays. The driver-oriented display to the left of the steering wheel is used to control functions for lighting and assistance systems. The driver-oriented operating unit to the right contains media controls. The front passenger faces a widescreen display that is integrated into the full surface of the instrument panel; it is used to individually and conveniently control entertain-ment features.

The new type of front passenger display enables digital interaction between the driv-er and front passenger for the first time. A wiping movement by the passenger is all it takes to send pre-configured routes to the driver’s display and input them into the Audi virtual cockpit future.

On the console of the center tunnel, there is a fourth flexible touch display that is ergonomically adapted to the driver; it is used for climate control, handwriting in-put and other vehicle settings. This display consists primarily of an extremely thin,



bendable OLED film (OLED: organic light emitting diodes), and it displays extreme-ly sharp images that are rich in contrast. When not in use, the OLED display is inte-grated flush to the center console and is nearly invisible. When the car is started, the flexible display stands up. The fact that it bends ensures a constant distance to the hand which makes for better ergonomics. When operating the display, the wrist rests on the low-positioned gear selector lever of the eight-speed tiptronic.

Designers have also redesigned the shift-by-wire lever. It is now integrated seamless-ly into the center console. Cupholders and smartphone slots are installed under lids on the center console, to the left and right of the console support element.

Audi virtual cockpit future shows images on three levelsThe Audi virtual cockpit future offers a glimpse into the future of the digital cockpit: High-resolution displays and three mirrors generate a virtual stage on three levels – a fascinating view with visual depth. In the navigation view, the first level presents information that is important for driving; levels two and three generate the depth effect in the cockpit. Structuring the information on different levels makes it better organized and easier for the driver to comprehend. The content and colors of the Audi virtual cockpit future change as a function of driving style – in sporty driving, the display switches over to Sport mode with special presentation of the relevant information such as engine rpm, temperatures and charge pressure.



Inside the Audi prologue, every detail clearly illustrates its exclusive character. A finely crafted perforated panel covers the air vents. If the driver sets the blower to a higher stage, the panel retracts downwards. White LED light conductors trace the distinctive lines of the interior, starting at the doors. A large aluminum brace forms the steering wheel spokes; it harmonizes with the bars on the displays and the door pull handles. All aluminum accents show perfection in craftsmanship: Their surfaces have matt finishes, and the edges are polished – a fine interplay of gloss levels.

Natural materials communicate a new luxuryFor Audi designers from the Color & Trim area, natural materials are the new luxu-ry; all of the materials in the show car fascinate with their authenticity. The surfaces of the seats and seat backs, the dashboard, the console on the center tunnel and the armrests are covered in light-colored “passion” leather – a new soft grade of leather that emphasizes the natural characteristics of the animal hide.

Soft nubuck leather, also in a light color, covers the backs of the seats and the side panel trim of the rear seating area. On the instrument panel, the gray-brown trim of the lower section provides another strong accent. The wrap-around is upholstered in dark “passion” leather; here, and in many other areas, aluminum trim strips contrast with panels of open-grained silver-gray elm wood veneer.

Sporty yet convenient: the technologyThe technology of the Audi prologue is as sophisticated as its interior is emo-tion-evoking. The 4.0 TFSI, which is installed in the engine compartment like a technical masterpiece, produces 445 kW (605 hp) and 700 Nm (516.3 lb-t) of torque; in overboost mode, which the driver can call up for around 15 seconds, a boosted torque of 750 Nm (553.2 lb-ft) is available. The sonorous biturbo V8 accelerates the twoâÂ€Â‘door coupe, which has an unladen weight of 1,980 kilograms (4,365.2 lb) from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.7 seconds.

The show car’s combined fuel consumption is just 8.6 liters per 100 kilometers (27.4 US mpg), which equates to CO2 emissions of 199 grams per kilometer (320.3 g/mile). One contributor to this high efficiency is a new 48-volt subsystem of the ve-hicle electrical system – this is a technology that will soon be introduced to produc-tion cars at Audi. The 48-volt system is supplied by a powerful belt starter generator, which turns the powertrain into a mild hybrid and has an energy recovery output of up to 12 kW during braking. An eight-speed tiptronic directs engine power to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which works closely with torque vectoring.215| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM


New five-link wheel suspensionsIn the chassis, the adaptive air suspension sport – an air suspension with controlled damping – offers a large adjustment range between smooth rolling and very tight handling; it also varies the show car’s ground clearance over several levels. The front and rear suspensions are engineered as lightweight five-link designs. The large car-bon-fiber ceramic brake discs decelerate the show car powerfully. On the 20-inch front brakes, they are gripped by six-piston fixed calipers.

A technology highlight of the Audi prologue is its dynamic all-wheel steering – it boosts driving dynamics and ride comfort by an intelligent combination of dynamic and all-wheel steering. The driver therefore can enjoy an automobile with extremely good handling. In the lower speed range, this is made evident by better agility and turning ability. In the higher speed range, developers improved the car’s respon-siveness which leads to greater vehicle stability. Overall, dynamic all-wheel steering – with rear wheel steering angles of up to five degrees – makes it easy to maneuver when parking and offers precise and sporty steering on country roads and impres-sively comfortable steering on freeways.

Fuel consumption of the models named above:Audi A8:Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 11.3 – 5.9 (20.8 – 39.9 US mpg)**;Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 264 – 144 (424.9 – 231.7 g/mi)**

The fuel consumption and the CO2 emissions of a vehicle vary due to the choice of wheels and tires. They not only depend on the efficient utilization of the fuel by the vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behavior and other non-technical factors.



NEED

spEEDfor

spEEDforNEED


NFS.indd 2 1/4/15 3:42 AM

spEED

Best Car Movie Of The Year

Let’s cut right to the chase, Need For Speed did not win “Best Car Movie Of The Year” because of the acting or storyline. This movie took home the prize because of the way it was shot with real supercars moving at high speeds.

The racing scenes in NFS will have you glued to your tv screen with excitement as you witness some of the best camera angles and car crashes. Three of the most memorable scenes are with the Koenigseggs, the Mustang and the final race. If you haven’t seen this movie yet, be sure to pick it up on Blu-Ray and be prepared to be blown away by some of the most high speed action you will ever see.

spEED WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM | 220

NFS.indd 3 1/4/15 3:42 AM

Car Game Of The Year

Forza Horizon 2

If you own an XBox One or a PlayStation 4, and you’re looking for a racing game that gives you tons or cars to race across the open road, then Forza Horizon 2 is the game that you’re looking for. Forza Horizon 2 greatest moments sometime come under the most unexpected circumstances. The Land Rover Defender is not exactly known for its speed or sportiness. When Forza Horizon 2 mashes these things to-gether, something very good happens. If you played a lot of racing games over the past two decades, then you’ve never played one where you’re shredding through a 221| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Forza Horizon 2.indd 2 1/4/15 3:46 AM

venue at top speed in an agricultural 4 x 4, primarily designed to effectively beat our your opponents up some beautifully designed wet hills. Forza Horizon 2 rebottles the winning formula established by its predecessor in 2012. They also added a heap-ing tablespoon of new and improved ingredients. The ecliptic roster of 200+ lavishly details cars they give you ranges from regular vehicles to hyper cars, and is the best lineup in the open world racing business. They all feel distinct from each other too, thanks to the Forza series familiar top quality driving dynamics. Forza Horizon 2 has proven to be one of the most fun-filled packed racing game today. You will spend days in front of your tv trying to own every car you’ve dreamed of having in real life. With tons of races to participate in and online modes to challenge your friends or rivals, Forza Horizon 2 was chosen as Auto-V Magazine’s best car game of the year!


Forza Horizon 2.indd 3 1/4/15 3:46 AM

Hybrid/Electric

2015 Nissan Leaf

For the 2015 model year, Nissan LEAF continues to surprise first-time buyers with its ease of ownership – offering the space and range to meet every day needs, while also providing an exceptional value proposition due to zero spending on gas, lower maintenance costs and a starting price after tax incentives competitive with a com-parable gas-powered car. Already the best-selling 100-percent electric vehicle in the world, Nissan LEAF’s popularity and sales continue to soar as more and more people discover its quiet and fun driving experience. Along with its no tailpipe emissions, LEAF helps reduce city noise pollution with its running noise of just 21 decibels measuring less than a typical ceiling fan (26 dB).223| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Nissan Leaf.indd 2 1/4/15 3:47 AM

For 2015, Nissan LEAF is again available in three trim levels: LEAF S, SV and SL, along with option packages offering advanced systems such as Around View® Mon-itor and seven-speaker Bose energy-efficient audio. Enhancements for 2015 include a new MorningSky Blue exterior color (late availability), the addition of Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant and Voice Destination Entry for SV and SL grades, and new standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels for the SV grade (late availability). Also, the base LEAF S grade receives standard “B-Mode,” which engages regener-ative braking more aggressively while decelerating. All 2015 LEAF models include three drive modes: Normal, Eco-Mode and B-Mode.


Nissan Leaf.indd 3 1/4/15 3:47 AM

Minivan Of The Year

2015 Honda Odyssey

2015 Honda Odyssey goes on sale with a starting Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)1 of $28,975. The Odyssey was the top selling minivan with individ-ual (retail) car buyers in the U.S. in 2013 and in the first five months of 2014, based on new-vehicle registration statistics from IHS Automotive2. The Odyssey received a host of powertrain, styling, interior, feature and safety equipment upgrades for the 2014 model year, including the acclaimed in-vehicle vacuum cleaner, the Hon-daVAC, featured on the Odyssey Touring Elite. 225| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Honda Odyssey.indd 2 1/4/15 3:48 AM

Other upgrades designed to meet the needs of active families included the addition of a standard 6-speed automatic transmission resulting in class-leading EPA fu-el-economy ratings, enhanced safety equipment and connectivity upgrades. These changes plus the functionality of the fundamental design elicited numerous 2014 awards. These ranged from Parents Magazine and Edumunds.com Best Minivan for Families and a Best Value award from Kiplinger’s Personal Finance to a Good Housekeeping VIP (Very Innovative Products) award and the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) naming the Odyssey a “greener choices of 2014” as the highest ranked minivan.


Honda Odyssey.indd 3 1/4/15 3:48 AM

Pick-Up Of The Year

2015 GMC Canyon

The 2015 GMC Canyon is an all-new midsize truck that redefines the segment and raises the bar for everything from horsepower and efficiency to refinement and it gives GMC one of the only three-truck lineups in the industry. Based on a proven global architecture and engineered for the unique demands and driving conditions of North American drivers, the new Canyon offers the segment’s best horsepow-er – 200 horsepower (149 kW) from a standard 2.5L I-4 and 305 horsepower (227 kW) from an available 3.6L V-6 – along with an available maximum trailering rating (when properly equipped) of 7,000 pounds (3,175 kg). It also offers segment-best highway efficiency: EPA-estimated 27 mpg for 2.5L 2WD models and 26 mpg for 3.6L 2WD models, when properly equipped.227| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

GMC Canyon.indd 2 1/4/15 3:50 AM

Canyon is offered in base, SLE and SLT models, in 2WD and 4WD, and with an aggressively styled All-Terrain package offered on SLE models. It includes 17-inch painted aluminum wheels wrapped with all-terrain tires, a body-color grille sur-round with horizontal chrome bars, a body-color rear bumper, front tow hooks, hill descent control and specific suspension tuning. It also includes a power-adjustable front passenger seat. Customer-focused technologies include available OnStar 4G LTE connectivity, segment-first available driver alert features such as forward colli-sion alert, lane departure warning and a standard rear-vision camera. OnStar with 4G LTE and its standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected. The hotspot is on whenever the car is on and comes with a three-month/three-gigabyte data trial, whichever comes first.


GMC Canyon.indd 3 1/4/15 3:50 AM

Mid-Size SUV

2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT owners have come to expect and appreciate a vehicle that is powerful and refined, luxurious and functional, muscular and stylish. For 2015, the most awarded SUV ever builds upon this proven success with more horsepower and torque, a new Red Vapor special edition package and new Active Noise Cancel-ling (ANC) technology which further heightens Grand Cherokee SRT’s refinement and fun-to-drive factor during a comfortable daily commute or a more spirited drive at a favorite race track. Mindful of improving refinement while preserving the Grand Cherokee SRT’s high-performance character, engineers developed an Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) system. Using the vehicle audio system and four strategi-cally located microphones, it automatically introduces sound to the cabin. The result is enhanced sound-system clarity and unfettered enjoyment of the Grand Cherokee SRT’s signature exhaust note.229| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Grand Cherokee SRT.indd 2 1/4/15 3:51 AM

The new Red Vapor special edition package introduces unique exterior and interior styling cues to enhance the distinct, performance-oriented looks of the award-win-ning SUV and is available on three body colors: Redline Red Pearl Clear Coat, Bril-liant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Bright White Clear Coat. On the exterior, stan-dard five-spoke 20-inch “Goliath” wheels are finished in Black Chrome with bright chrome center caps, while additional gloss black appointments include the SRT lift-gate badge, Jeep hood and rear light bar badges, Grand Cherokee door badge, lower grille bezels and upper grille inserts. Inside, the exclusive SRT logo on the high-per-formance designed steering wheel is backlit and the steering wheel bezel changes to an anodized silver finish. Light black chrome replaces the standard bright chrome and Radar Red accents are used throughout the cabin to enhance the luxurious, muscular interior. Under the hood, engine beauty covers trimmed in dark red com-plete the special edition package.


Grand Cherokee SRT.indd 3 1/4/15 3:51 AM

Full-Size SUV Of The Year

2015 Cadillac Escalade Platinum Edition

From its introduction in 1999, the Cadillac Escalade quickly became the standard among luxury SUVs with a formula of bold design, powerful capability and luxu-rious accommodations. The all-new 2015 Escalade takes design and technical ele-ments from Cadillac’s product expansion to elevate the brand’s signature SUV.The fourth-generation Escalade has a new exterior design yet is instantly recog-nizable. Inside, cut-and-sewn materials and wood trim, chosen for elegance and authenticity, combine with the latest technology to convey an exceptional level of luxury. “Cadillac’s ongoing growth provides the ideal stage for the all-new Escalade to take a major step forward,” said Uwe Ellinghaus, chief marketing officer, Global Cadillac. “Escalade has always had a bold character, differentiating itself from other luxury SUVs. Now, Escalade adds more sophistication, with advanced technology and hand-tailored craftsmanship.” The product line includes the standard Escalade and the extended-length ESV edition, with offers a 14-inch-longer (355 mm) wheel-base and approximately 20 inches (508 mm) more in overall length, maximizing space for third-row passengers and nearly double the cargo space behind the third-row seat. 231| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Cadillac Escalade Platinum.indd 2 1/4/15 3:54 AM

Luxury and Premium collections are also available, offering higher levels of content and technology. All models are offered with 2WD and 4WD drivetrains as well as a new 6.2L V-8 engine that is more powerful and more efficient than previous mod-els. In fact, the new V-8 is powerful enough to enable 0 to 60 mph performance in less than 6 seconds – 5.96 seconds for Escalade 4WD and 5.98 seconds for Escalade ESV 2WD. The new 6.2L engine also delivers an EPA-estimated 21 mpg on the high-way (Escalade 2WD/4WD and Escalade ESV 2WD). That’s about 17 percent greater efficiency on the highway than previous models, and also about 17 percent greater efficiency than Mercedes-Benz GL550 (18 mpg) and nearly 24 percent greater than Lexus LX 570 (17 mpg). Cadillac’s Magnetic Ride Control, the world’s fastest-react-ing suspension system, is standard, delivering precisely controlled driving perfor-mance. At its core, Escalade is an SUV with full-size truck capabilities, enabling a trailering rating of 8,300 pounds on the standard model and 8,100 pounds on Es-calade ESV. That’s more than Mercedes-Benz GL550 (7,800 pounds), Lexus LX 570 (7,000 pounds) and Land Rover Range Rover (7,716 pounds).


Cadillac Escalade Platinum.indd 3 1/4/15 3:54 AM

Full-Size Sedan Of The Year

2015 Volkswagen Passat

The 2015 Volkswagen Passat is an American-built mid-size sedan with the amenities and space of many full-size models, with best-in-class, stretch-out rear-seat legroom and trunk space to match.

The Passat TDI version—the only clean diesel option in the segment—delivers an EPA estimated 44 miles per gallon on the highway with the manual transmission, giving a range of almost 814 miles. The previous-generation diesel engine, matched to a six-speed manual transmission, and driven using special, highly efficient driving techniques and tires, set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS achievement for the “lowest fuel consumption—48 U.S. states for a non-hybrid car” category with a stel-lar 77.99 mpg—more than 10 mpg better than the previous mark of 67.9 mpg.233| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

VW Passat.indd 2 1/4/15 3:56 AM

New for 2015Headlining the Passat’s changes for 2015 is a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine TDI Clean Diesel engine that produces 150 horsepower and carries the designa-tion EA288. This engine is also more fuel-efficient than the previous version; when paired with a manual transmission, it returns an EPA estimated fuel economy figure of 30 in the city and 44 on the highway (an improvement of 1 mpg, respectively), while the six-speed DSG automatic now returns 42 mpg on the highway (a 2 mpg improvement).

Additionally, a Technology Package is now available on S and Wolfsburg trims, and includes a rearview camera, Premium VIII audio with eight speakers, and satellite radio. Lastly, SEL trims receive rain-sensing windshield wipers.


VW Passat.indd 3 1/4/15 3:56 AM

Coupe/Convertible Of The Year

2015 Ford Mustang

Loaded with innovative technologies and delivering high levels of performance and style, the all-new Mustang is the next chapter in the life of one of the world’s most iconic cars. Mustang’s impact goes well beyond the 9 million-plus cars sold in its 50 years of continuous production. It has made thousands of appearances in film, tele-vision, music and video games, and is the world’s most-liked vehicle on Facebook. For the first time ever, Ford will bring Mustang to customers in key parts of Europe and Asia.

The Mustang experienceThe way Mustang looks, drives and sounds is key to the visceral experience that makes drivers just want to get in the driver’s seat and hit the road. The Mustang is the first car to offer four-, six- and eight-cylinder engines that each produce at least 300 horsepower. With more powertrain options to choose from, there is a Mustang 235| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Ford Mustang.indd 2 1/4/15 3:57 AM

to fit any lifestyle. The 3.7-liter V6 and upgraded 5.0-liter V8 are joined by an all-new 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that brings state-of-the-art technology to Mustang. The Mustang’s EcoBoost engine uses direct injection, variable cam timing and tur-bocharging to deliver plenty of usable performance across a broad RPM range. A unique intake manifold and turbocharger housing enable it to deliver the perfor-mance Mustang drivers expect with 310 horsepower and 320 lb.-ft. of torque.

Mustang GT continues with the latest edition of the throaty 5.0-liter V8, now fea-turing an upgraded valvetrain and cylinder heads that help boost output to 435 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. A new intake manifold features charge motion control valves to partially close off port flow at lower engine speeds. This increases the air charge tumble and swirl for improved air-fuel mixing resulting in improved efficiency and idle stability. With 300 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque on tap from the standard 3.7-liter V6, even the most accessible Mustang delivers the perfor-mance customers expect. Drivers will appreciate smoother shifts from the updated manual gearbox, while a reworked automatic transmission features new steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for drivers who want the choice between convenience and control.


Ford Mustang.indd 3 1/4/15 3:57 AM

Sports Car Of The Year

2015 Jaguar F-Type V8 S

With soaring performance, the F-TYPE V8 S offers outstanding levels of dynamic capability and control. Its 5.0 liter supercharged V8 engine produces 495 horsepow-er, accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 4.2 seconds3. The F-TYPE V8 S features an Electronic Active Differential, Jaguar Super Performance Braking System, and Sport Suspension with Adaptive Dynamics.4237| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Jaguar FType.indd 2 1/4/15 3:58 AM

Powerful, agile and distinctive, the F-TYPE is a true Jaguar sports car, engineered for high performance and responsive handling – the latest in a distinguished blood-line of cars. Supercharged engines, lightweight aluminum body construction and advanced driving technologies deliver an experience that is intuitive, instinctive and alive.


Jaguar FType.indd 3 1/4/15 3:58 AM

Luxury Car Of The Year

2015 Rolls-Royce Wraith

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars proudly presents the world debut of Wraith, the most pow-erful and dynamic Rolls-Royce in history. At its heart lie hallmark Rolls-Royce at-tributes of luxury, refinement and hand-craftsmanship, but the new model from the world’s pinnacle super-luxury marque also presents a unique character defined by power, style and drama. With just a hint of the noir.

In profile, Wraith’s sweeping fastback design gives the car its unique character. Bold lines, tension in the panels and a raked rear screen evoke the image of a world class athlete poised in the starting blocks. Further expression of dynamic intent can be seen in Wraith’s deeply recessed grille, wide rear track and dramatic two-tone pre-sentation. Coach doors open to reveal a sumptuous interior complete with softest Phantom-grade leathers and expanses of wood called Canadel Panelling. Named after the famous cove in the South of France where Sir Henry Royce and his design and engineering teams spent their winters, this contemporary and tactile finish sweeps through the interior, cosseting four occupants in a space bathed in light and warmth.

The interior ambiance is complemented by Starlight Headliner, a Bespoke feature available beyond Phantom family cars for the first time. 1,340 fibre optic lamps are hand-woven into the roof lining to give the impression of a glittering, starry night sky. Performance delivers on the promise of Wraith’s styling. Power delivery is ef-fortless, but dramatic, thanks to a V12 engine married to 8-speed automatic ZF transmission. 624 bhp / 465kW is available to the driver while the 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in 4.4 seconds, compared with 563 bhp / 420kW and 0-60 in 4.7 seconds for Ghost. From 1,500 rpm 800 Nm of torque is available (780 Nm for Ghost), while a wide rear track, shorter wheelbase and lower roof height further contribute to the 239| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

most powerful, involving driving experience of any Rolls-Royce in history. The car’s suspension has also been tuned to minimise body roll and discreetly amplify feed-back when cornering; while steering weight is heavier at high speeds and lighter at low speeds adding to the spirited drive.

However, Wraith is no GT bruiser. Agility improvements have been achieved with absolutely no compromise to the sensation of riding on a bed of air. Furthermore, the debut of Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT) technology takes the powertrain to a new level of effortless delivery, one that perfectly suits the Rolls-Royce brand. Satellite Aided Transmission uses GPS data to see beyond what the driver sees; it anticipates his next move based on location and current driving style, then selects the most appropriate gear for the terrain ahead. Corners, motorway junctions and roundabouts are all anticipated in advance meaning Wraith is constantly poised to deliver on its promise of performance. A more polished, effortless driving experi-ence and even better response brings a new, more dynamic dimension to the famous Rolls-Royce trait, waftability.

For over a century a Rolls-Royce motor car has featured technologies designed to support occupants discreetly, delivering a peerless driving experience epitomised by the term ‘effortlessness’. In every Rolls-Royce these assist the driver when called upon, but are prepared to return without fuss to the background when no longer re-quired. Advances in mechanical and electrical technology deliver systems like head-up display, adaptive headlights and Wraith’s keyless opening boot. But improvements in connectivity have taken the human-machine interface to a new level of sophisti-cation, a suite of aids that could be likened to a contemporary on-board valet. Voice activation commands, for example, come with a one-touch call button located on the steering wheel.

A destination no longer requires manual input from a navigation menu and route assistance begins immediately, on-screen and via audio guidance following a voice command such as “navigate to Piccadilly in London.” Additional improvements in communications come in the design and functionality of the elegant Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller. This allows navigation through on-screen functions using a touch pad that features pinch and pull functionality to echo smart phone usage. Letters can also be ‘drawn’ onto the pad by hand rather than by scrolling through a series of available characters on-screen. In Europe, Wraith will be priced at c. €245k. Confir-mation and further pricing details in all markets will be revealed later in the year.


Super/Hypercar Of The Year

2015 Koenigsegg Agera R

The Agera R is the result of Koenigsegg’s endless pursuit of perfection. The model features Aircore hollow carbon fiber wheels, upgraded power and enhanced aero-dynamics. The Agera R has an incredible top speed of approximately 440 km/h (273mph). Recent Records for the Agera R: 0-300 km/h in 14.53 sec, 300-0 km/h in 6.66 sec, 0-200 mph in 17.68 sec, 200-0 mph in 7.28 sec. The Agera R is the only roadster Hypercar with a detachable and stowable hardtop, thereby offering the best of two worlds. This, in combination with 120 litres of luggage space, truly combines extreme performance with everyday usability. The Agera R is available in left or right-hand drive. The Agera R has all the features and functionality of previous year models, but also features new and unique solutions to enhance performance and visual appearance even further. Examples of these enhancements include: visible car-bon on the front bonnet and bumper, new front side winglets, revolutionary Aircore carbon fiber wheels, new Aero exhaust, increased power and a raised RPM limit. 241| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Koenigsegg Agera R.indd 2 1/4/15 4:01 AM

Please find more details about these features in the menu to the left. Koenigsegg was the first Hypercar manufacturer to take steps toward green technology with the release of the biofuel CCXR in 2007. The Agera R, based on the highly competitive Agera, follows in the footsteps of the CCXR as it also runs on E85 biofuel. Among the many differences to the standard Agera, the Agera R has an upgraded fuel and engine management system with enough flow capacity to generate 1140hp and 1200Nm of torque on E85 and E100 biofuel. As there is less energy content per given volume in these biofuels compared to normal petrol, the fuel system has to manage a flow that is similar to a 2000hp petrol engine, which means that the Agera R’s re-turn-less fuel system has the highest capacity of any car presently in production. As the Agera R is a flexfuel car, it can also be run on normal petrol. As 95 octane fuel has less octane than ethanol E85, the power is reduced to 960hp with 1100Nm of torque due to the boost pressure and ignition timing being altered to match the fuel characteristics. In order to give the Agera R maximum flexibility when it comes to power delivery, Koenigsegg has implemented the latest technology when it comes to turbo materials and design. This reduces the inertia of the turbine wheel and axle and therefore gives improved response.


Koenigsegg Agera R.indd 3 1/4/15 4:01 AM

Concept Car Of The Year

Audi Prologue

The Audi prologue is its first proponent it is a ‘signature car’ for Audi.” Marc Lichte himself describes the character of the show car in this way: “Audi stands for sport-iness, lightweight design and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. In the Audi prologue, we are expressing this know-how in a new form – we have put the sport-iest car in the luxury segment on wheels. Our team took new approaches in both exterior and interior design. Audi design is now expressing progressive technology even more powerfully. 243| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM


The two-door coupe has a flowing, elegant shape in a sporty and taut design. Its forms and lines are unmistakable and introduce many new ideas. In the clear and unobstructed interior, the architecture melds with the display and operating concept to create a new type of unit. The entire front of the instrument panel is a large touch display, and a portion of the user interface operates with a new type of OLED display made of organic LEDs. The show car’s technology combines power, comfort and ef-ficiency. The 4.0 TFSI produces up to 445 kW (605 hp) of power and 750 Nm (553.2 lb-ft) of torque; it accelerates the Audi prologue from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.7 seconds. Its dynamic all-wheel steering, in which the rear wheels can turn up to five degrees, makes the large coupe extremely responsive and stable while driving.



Car Of The Year

2015 Kia K900

The all-new 2015 K900 is poised to challenge the rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations, premi-um driving dynamics and stunning design that will redefine consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand. “This year marks Kia Motors’ 20th anniversary in the U.S. market, and the all-new K900 is a symbol of how far the brand has come and the next bold example of the challenger spirit that has benefitted Kia over two decades of growth and maturation,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of sales and marketing, KMA. “Kia’s rise over the last five years has been fueled by a willingness to challenge the status quo with vehicles such as the Optima, Sorento and Cadenza, which have brought new and more affluent customers to our show-rooms and dramatically raised the profile of the brand while maintaining our value proposition. The K900 is the next logical progression for Kia. It demonstrates what Kia is capable of and will help redefine what the Kia brand stands for.” Offered with a V6 or a V8 engine, the K900’s list of standard equipment will feature first-class ac-commodations and advanced technology. 245| WWW.AUTOVMAGAZINE.COM

Kia K900.indd 2 1/4/15 4:06 AM

The range-topping V8 equipped with the VIP Package will add additional luxu-ry amenities including reclining outboard rear seats. The K900 Premium V6 will launch at a later date with an available Luxury Package and Technology Pack-age. The all-new K900 V8 Luxury and V8 VIP are expected to go on sale during the first quarter of 2014 with a V8 Luxury model starting at $59,5002 excluding $900 in destination charges. Pricing for the V6 model will be announced closer to launch. The K900 comes with a three-year, 37,500-mile complimentary scheduled mainte-nance program at participating Kia dealerships. Covering the first five service visits, the complimentary scheduled maintenance program is available to customers who either purchase or lease a new 2015 K900 and complete the maintenance work for their vehicle at participating Kia retailers. As an added benefit, K900 customers may enjoy the use of a Cadenza or K900 loan vehicle during their service visit3. The no-cost scheduled maintenance program, which excludes wear and tear items such as tires and brakes, complements Kia’s industry leading 10-year/100,000 mile new-car warranty and Roadside Assistance program4.


Kia K900.indd 3 1/4/15 4:06 AM

MILLER BUICK | GMC920 RTE 1N WOODBRIDGE, NJ 07095W W W . M I L L E R B U I C K G M C . C O M

DEALERBUICK | GMC

gmc truck ad.indd 2 1/4/15 2:26 AM

http://www.millerbuickgmc.com/

CANYONAS BEST TRUCK FOR 2015

gmc truck ad.indd 3 1/4/15 2:26 AM

Seduction in every curve. Exhilaration in every corner.

The first-ever GLE-Class Coupe

Introducing the first-ever GLE-Class Coupe, a stunning expression of style, performance and versatility. Arriving in late summer 2015.

Mercedes-BenzThe best or nothing.

Mercedes-Benz AD.indd 1 1/4/15 5:08 AM

auto-v magazine january 2015 issue

Documents

autov magazine contact

amw w w

issue of auto

auto showawardspage

idea of auto

auto section

c o mfollow

s c h e v y