(7 September 2010, Crewe, England.) For Crewe’s design and engineering teams, the new Continental GT coupe is an opportunity to set a bold and exciting direction for one of Bentley’s most revered names – the Continental. The seminal and highly successful Continental GT introduced in 2003 represented the first step in Bentley’s renaissance and defined a whole new market segment. It was a luxury GT offering excellent usability that remained true to the Bentley grand touring spirit.

Now the new Continental GT 4-seat coupe builds on the success of its iconic predecessor, capturing that GT spirit but with even higher standards of design, engineering, luxury, craftsmanship, dynamic performance, everyday practicality and refinement.

A beautifully sculptured new body gives the GT coupe an even crisper, more defined appearance. The contemporary interior offers new levels of cabin design, comfort and hand-crafted luxury. The seats, for example, provide even greater support and rear leg-room; a sweeping dashboard even more style and modernity. The new touchscreen infotainment system features state-of-the-art navigation, Google Maps and entertainment while the latest Balanced Mode Radiator speaker technology and Dirac Dimensions™ digital sound processing deliver enhanced audio quality.

Bentley’s acclaimed 6-litre, 12-cylinder, twin-turbocharged powertrain now has a raised power output of 575PS (567bhp/423kW) and 700Nm (516lb ft) of torque and this is mated to a new Quickshift transmission which enables double downshifts. Thanks to advanced FlexFuel technology it can also run on both standard unleaded petrol (gasoline) and sustainable bioethanol (up to E85) or any mix of the two.

In late 2011 an all-new, high-output 8-cylinder engine will also be available to order. This advanced power unit will deliver a 40 percent reduction in emissions compared with the W12 engine and will offer a class-leading CO2 emissions-to-power ratio with Bentley levels of performance and refinement.

“The new Continental GT is an automotive work of art, with superb craftsmanship and elegant, contemporary design. It drives like a supercar, but without the usual sacrifices in ride or practicality. It is a car that you can enjoy every moment of every day.”

Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, Chairman and Chief Executive

THE NEW CONTINENTAL GT COUPE – AT A GLANCE

Sculptured exterior design

* Advanced production techniques such as aluminium Super Forming (front wings and boot lid) allow for a more sculpted body and sharp ‘power lines’
* Unique jewelled headlamps with LED daytime-running lights
* More upright matrix radiator grille and new ‘double horseshoe’ rear profile first shown on the flagship Bentley Mulsanne

Contemporary, hand-crafted cabin

* New interior with a bold, sweeping dashboard and instrument panel finished in premium, soft-touch leather hides
* Distinctive ‘cobra’-design seats for added comfort and enhanced rear cabin space
* A new touchscreen, 30GB infotainment system introduces advanced satellite navigation with dynamic route guidance, seven-digit postcode entry and Google Map compatibility (market specific)
* Audio systems feature the latest wide frequency Balance Mode Radiator speakers as standard
* Revolutionary Dirac Dimensions™ DSP for exceptional sound reproduction (Naim for Bentley premium audio).

More powerful W12 and new high-efficiency V8 FlexFuel engines

* 6-litre W12 engine twin-turbocharged engine produces 575PS(567bhp/423kW) and 700Nm (516lb ft) of torque.
* 0 – 60mph in 4.4 seconds (0 – 100km/h in 4.6 seconds)
* 0 – 100mph in 10.2 seconds (0 – 160km/h in 10.2 seconds)
* Top speed of 198mph (318km/h)
* Overall weight saving of 65kg (143lb) versus predecessor
* New high-output, high-efficiency V8 engine due for release in late 2011.

Dynamic Bentley driving experience

* ZF 6HP28 transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system that cuts shift times by 50% and enables double downshifts
* New 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering’
* Increased front and rear track improves grip and stability
* Advanced ESC system fully exploits the potential of the more powerful W12 engine and improved chassis
* 20” and (optional) 21” wheels

SCULPTURED EXTERIOR EXUDES QUALITY AND DESIGN INTEGRITY

Inspired by the iconic Bentleys of the past, Bentley’s design team under the leadership of Director of Design, Dirk van Braeckel, has created a thoroughly modern, sculptured body, built with advanced production technologies to ensure the highest standards of quality and body integrity.

Aluminium Super Forming technology is employed to create the front wings and the boot lid. This process heats the aluminium panels to nearly 500 degrees Celsius before shaping them by air pressure. By using a single sheet of aluminium, no seams or welding are required.

The latest body construction techniques deliver crisp, highly defined feature lines and form to every area of the exterior design. The familiar power lines and rear haunches – echoes of the original 1950s R-Type Continental – now have even sharper radii to create highly distinct surfaces, bringing the feel of a truly coachbuilt car to the new coupe.

The GT coupe’s new look is bolder than ever. The classic Bentley matrix radiator grille is more upright, while the new headlamp design, in traditional four-lamp format, has exquisite jewel-like detailing including eye-catching, LED daylight-running lamps.

At the rear, Bentley signature ‘floating’ LED lamps extend around the corners of the wings, emphasising the new coupe’s width and purposeful stance. The track is wider by41mm at the front and 48mm at the rear than the previous model. The bootlid design has a powerful ‘double horse-shoe’ motif, reminiscent of the new Bentley Mulsanne, while flared elliptical exhaust tailpipes reinforce the new GT’s sporting credentials.

The shape of the new GT coupe’s body is also more aerodynamic following extensive wind tunnel analysis. In conjunction with a range of extensive underbody refinements (including wheel arch and exhaust aerodynamic aids) the GT’s coefficient of drag has been reduced to 0.33Cd and the lift at the front and rear axles has also been reduced to create greater stability at higher speeds.

The new GT is specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard, with, for the first time on the Continental family, the option to upgrade to 21-inch designs. Three styles of wheel are offered – a 20-inch five-spoke version and two 21-inch Elegant and split-rim Sports variations, which come in a variety of chromed and painted finishes.

“The new GT coupe has an even stronger sporting character than ever before. It is an exceptionally refined and comfortable 2+2 Grand Tourer but with the heart, soul and looks of a supercar.”

Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design

CONTEMPORARY, HAND-CRAFTED CABIN WITH BENTLEY’S RENOWNED REFINEMENT

With an entirely hand-crafted interior, the Continental GT’s cabin sets new standards in refinement and luxury to create a stylish space in which up to four people can relax in total comfort.

The instrument panel and dashboard subtly echo the flying wings of the Bentley motif and are fashioned from the highest quality soft-touch leathers. New touchscreen technology and chrome-bezelled dials are housed within this dynamic cockpit area, which rises from the centre console in the form of dramatically surfaced ’wing’ buttresses.

The striking and unique ‘Cobra’ design seats are supremely comfortable thanks to the introduction of the latest body-supporting materials which use complex foams to provide softness at first touch but with excellent support over longer journeys.

The seats can be specified with front-seat ventilation as well as a state-of-the-art massage system with 10 individual massage cells and individual side airbags are provided as standard for all passengers. Front seatbelts feature a new electrically-operated automatic presenter, making buckling-up effortless. Driver knee airbags are standard fitment.

The new Continental GT offers superb everyday usability. The new slim-line front seats with scalloped backs also provide a further 46mm of legroom for back-seat passengers and easy access to the rear cabin.

No other Grand Tourer offers such impressive levels of refinement thanks to the advanced noise-suppression technology that includes acoustic glazing, under-floor shields and hidden anti-vibration panels throughout the interior.

The cabin is trimmed with soft-touch leathers, a full range of wood veneers, cool-touch metals and deep-pile carpets – all hand-crafted in Bentley’s unrivalled workshops at the factory in Crewe, England. The attention to detail even extends to applying a UV stabilizer to the wood veneers to protect from bleaching, thus ensuring they can be enjoyed as new for decades to come.

Every leather hide is still sewn under the watchful eye of Bentley’s highly skilled craftsmen and women. By incorporating ingenious, angled ‘ramps’ behind the leather, the interior designers have created sharp, well-defined styling lines, while maintaining a soft-touch.

Other simple yet practical functions include a powered boot as standard, Electronic Park Brake with Move Off Assist and newly designed, leather-lined door stowage bins with an integrated bottle holder.

Perhaps the most stylish new storage device in the new Continental GT is the exquisitely designed, folding, removable case designed to hold items such as keys and pens and which can also be slipped into a pocket or bag. Crafted from veneers to match those of the coupe’s interior, the case (available as a cost option) is finished with inlaid Bentley wings, satin-chromed and leather-lined, and is secured in a recess above the twin drinks holders in the centre console.

“The new GT coupe interior combines form, practicality and innovation. Our task was to translate the original design sketches for the car’s cabin – which were quite extreme, almost revolutionary for a Bentley – into the final design. The result is a cockpit that moves the Continental GT on to the next generation.”

Darren Day, Senior Designer

CLASS-LEADING INFOTAINMENT SYSTEMS

Complementing its contemporary cabin, the new Continental GT also features advanced new touchscreen technology with rich map imagery and a 30GB on board hard drive.

The 8-inch screen displays the car’s audio system, telephone, ride and comfort settings and the very latest navigation system, which uses both an in-car hard-disc drive and a DVD player to access route data. It also employs dynamic navigation to guide you around areas of heavy traffic, finds destinations using geo-tagged photos from an SD memory card and is Google Maps-compatible (market specific).

The infotainment system, with 7 digit postcode entry, uses a combination of touchscreen controls and classic knurled rotary switches to offer instant usability and crystal-clear feedback. The graphic interface of the screen is engineered in-house to ensure its visuals are completely in keeping with the style of the interior. Look closely and you will see that the knurled switches on the screen are ‘virtual’ echoes of the knurled switches below.

The Continental GT’s new infotainment system also provides the ultimate in in-car audio entertainment. An eight-speaker sound system is offered as standard employing the latest Balanced Mode Radiator technology. These unique compact, flat-panel speakers provide exceptional clarity with a very wide frequency range.

An 11-speaker Naim for Bentley system – created exclusively for the Continental GT by British audiophiles Naim – employs revolutionary Dirac Dimensions ™ digital signal processing. This industry-first technology creates a virtual ‘sound field’ independent of speaker layout to deliver concert hall-quality sound reproduction for every occupant wherever they may be sitting.

The GT coupe also benefits from telephone and music player connectivity, digital television (where available) and DVD movie playback. Music can be played and controlled directly from an iPod®as well as from a six-disc CD changer, SD card reader or directly from the car’s hard-disc drive, which can store up to 15GB of music.

MORE POWERFUL W12 AND NEW HIGH-OUTPUT, HIGH-EFFICIENCY V8

The Continental GT is set to have a choice of two very distinctive high-performance engines. In addition to the new 575PS version of Crewe’s renowned 6.0 litre W12 powertrain, a new high-output 4.0-litre V8 engine option will be introduced in late 2011.

The new 4.0-litre V8 engine honours Bentley’s environmental commitment to deliver a powertrain that achieves a 40 percent improvement in CO2 emissions. The new V8 is being designed specifically by Bentley’s engineers to deliver all the exhilarating power and torque synonymous with the marque. The new Crewe-built engine will also offer a class-leadingCO2 emissions-to-power ratio.

At launch, the new Continental GT coupe is powered by the latest evolution of Bentley’s acclaimed 12-cylinder, 6-litre twin-turbocharged engine, now calibrated to provide even greater performance, thanks to increases in power, torque and fuel efficiency.

Designed in a unique ‘W’ configuration, it is the most compact and technologically advanced 12-cylinder engine in the world. Four camshafts and 48 valves allow the engine to breathe effortlessly and help to generate the distinctive Bentley wave of torque. It is also capable of running on petrol (gasoline), E85 bioethanol or any mix of the two – all from a single tank.

In 2008, Bentley announced a far-reaching environmental programme that included a 15 percent improvement in powertrain efficiency and the adoption across the Bentley model range of FlexFuel technology by 2012. Bentley’s FlexFuel models are capable of delivering potential CO2 reductions of up to 70 percent on a ‘well-to-wheel’ basis – the measurement of CO2 released by a fuel from its production (well) through to its combustion or deployment (wheel).

To ensure that the power and torque generated remain constant (whatever the fuel) an advanced Fuel Quality Sensor continuously monitors the ratio of the fuels used. It then guides the Engine Control Unit to adjust the engine’s timing. This provides the seamless power delivery for which Bentley engines are renowned, and ensures there is no compromise on performance when using fuels that create lower CO2 emissions.

Further revisions to the new GT coupe’s engine include low friction, lightweight components which allow the W12-format engine to rev even more freely, while the latest engine management system and twin, low-inertia turbochargers are optimised to ensure minimal turbo lag.

Overall, the GT coupe is 65kg lighter than its predecessor thanks to reductions in all areas of the car from engine components through to new seats. With its power output raised by 15PS and torque by 50 Nm – to 575PS (567bhp/423kW) and 700Nm (516lb ft) – the result is a 6 percent improvement in the new GT’s power-to weight-ratio, making it capable of accelerating from zero to 60mph in just 4.4 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds) with a top speed of 198mph (318km/h).

The increased power and torque are transmitted to the all-wheel drive system via an uprated six-speed Quickshift transmission, which halves shift times (to just 200 milliseconds). The revised gearbox also has the ability to deliver double downshifts (sixth to fourth gear, for example) and improves acceleration across the entire gear range. To cope with the additional power and torque, the planetary gear set of the six-speed ZF transmission is also strengthened.

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

“The W12’s extra power and torque and Quickshift transmission endow the new GT with instantly accessible supercar performance across the complete rev range. At the same time, Bentley’s pioneering use of FlexFuel technology underlines our ongoing environmental commitment.”

Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain, Engineering

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE FOR OPTIMISED RIDE AND HANDLING

Both engines are coupled with a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions and all weathers.

In the new coupe, the power split has a 40:60 rear bias for a significantly more sporting feel in terms of handling and mid-corner acceleration. However, it can adjust instantaneously the power split between the front and rear wheels depending on the available grip. In addition, an uprated Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system provides additional security and grip whatever your driving style.

The new GT’s chassis delivers the optimum ride and handling balance. The wide front and rear track benefits agility and handling, while solid aluminium cast-forged, high-stiffness front suspension uprights and aluminium gravity die castings at the rear work in conjunction with a redesigned front anti-roll bar and retuned spring and damper settings. The result is improved response and stability at all speeds.

Continuous Damping Control (CDC) constantly monitors the car’s attitude and poise. By adjusting the suspension settings hundreds of times a second it can provide a remarkably supple ride at low speeds and increased control as speeds climb. It can also lower the car in ‘V-Max’ mode for enhanced stability at the highest speeds.

SUMMARY

Throughout Bentley’s history, iconic grand tourers have forged the marque’s reputation. In the 1950s the beautiful R-Type Continental set new standards of performance and style. In 2003, Continental GT revolutionised the luxury coupe market, combining supercar performance and dynamism with remarkable everyday practicality.

Now, the new Continental GT coupe sets even higher standards in every area of design, craftsmanship and engineering.

“We’ve distilled nearly 90 years of engineering excellence into the new Continental GT coupe. It represents everything Bentley stands for: breathtaking performance, beautiful design and unparalleled quality, comfort and luxury.”

Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering

Source: Bentley

With over three quarters of all Porsches ever sold still on the road, Porsche is celebrating the tenacity of its most iconic model, the 911, by inviting owners to a Service Clinic1 at their local Porsche Centre on Saturday October 16.

The national Porsche 911 Service Clinic provides owners with a complimentary inspection and the opportunity to accompany the technician and view their car in a state of the art Porsche workshop. Owners can experience first hand the passion and expertise of the technicians devoted to ensuring the cars continue to deliver maximum performance and driving pleasure.

In celebration of the 911 range and for customers to learn more about their model’s heritage and technical highlights, each Porsche Centre will showcase a classic 911 display, provide four wheel alignment demonstrations and invite visitors to enter a prize draw offering the chance to win a detailed 1:18 scale model of the Porsche 901 (1964) from the Porsche Design Driver’s Selection range.

The Porsche 911 Service Clinic follows the highly successful Boxster Service Clinic held earlier in the year, which serviced over 440 Porsche Boxsters around the country in one day.

Source: Porsche

Labelled the ‘Stage One’ upgrade, Sportec’s S5 performance enhancement package consists of a free flowing air filter element and a carefully developed ECU remap. In combination this has a dramatic effect on the power characteristics of the supercharged 2995cc Audi engine, with peak power increasing from 328 bhp at 6000 rpm to 425 bhp at 6640 rpm, a significant gain of 97 bhp.

Similarly, Sportec’s Stage One upgrade delivers a prodigious increase in torque output on the Audi S5, producing a maximum of 520 Nm (379 lb.ft) at 4250 rpm, compared to peak figure of 440 Nm (325 lb.ft) from the factory.

Careful development by Sportec’s technicians ensures that over 80% of the maximum torque output is available from 2750 to 6250 rpm, which both perfectly suits the characteristics of the car’s 7-speed S-Tronic transmission and highlights the user-friendliness of the conversion.

The additional power and torque output realised by the Sportec Stage One upgraded Audi S5 considerably enhances the in-gear and fast cruising performance of the car, in keeping with its luxury GT credentials. However, when exercised to the full, it reduces the 0-62 mph (100 kmh) by 0.5 seconds to 4.6 seconds, while top speed is limited at 155 mph for safety reasons.

Suitable for coupéand cabriolet models of the 3.0-litre TFSI supercharged Audi S5, the Sportec Stage One upgrade is available now from APS Sportec priced at £1950.00 fitted including VAT.

Source: APS Sportec

The car is painted in a one-off Bespoke exterior colour called Stillwater Blue as a tribute to Stillwater Cove on the Monterey Peninsula. It also features a navy blue soft top lined with cashmere and is upholstered in a Crème Light leather interior. Interior wood fittings are composed of a striking cross-banded Santos Pallisander veneer contrasted with a silver pinstripe inlay.

Hand-crafted oiled teak decking is used for the roof tonneau and also in the luggage compartment flooring. A fully fitted champagne service set with crystal flutes complements the teak covered picnic deck, while a refrigerated cabinet is concealed beneath the luggage compartment floor.

Further Bespoke cues include an enamelled plaque on the dash, Concours logos on the tread plates and embroidery on each seat.

Source: Rolls-Royce

The technology which is currently undergoing final testing in Japan uses both the dashboard’s central screen display and a loud chime to notify the driver of objects moving around the car during parking . And not just at the front and rear either. Anything moving around the side of the car is also detected. It works when starting the car, or when driving at low speeds. This technology helps supplement the driver’s vision in situations such as leaving a parking space or when emerging from a junction with poor side visibility. Or indeed when arriving home after a long day at the office and the family dog is happy to see you.

Around View Monitor assists the driver during parking with a screen display and pieces together a bird’s eye view of the car and its surroundings giving audible warnings when the car is near an object. In addition, a “wide view function” provides a 180° view from both the front and rear ends of the vehicle at the press of a button – a useful function at junctions with poor right-and-left visibility. It works using four cameras – one in the front grille, another above the rear number plate and one more under each door mirror – and means there’s no excuse for curbed alloys. Just as well given those of the FX30dS measure an enormous 21 inches.

The addition of the new Moving Object Detection function will further enhance the currently available Around View Monitor system without the need for any additional sensor. It will be introduced within the next year or two depending on market.

And now for the small print.

Around View Monitor and Moving Object Detection are supplemental features. The driver is responsible for making sure his or her surroundings are safe before proceeding.

Source: Infiniti

During his visit Dr. Cable saw how Jaguar Land Rover – the UK’s largest investor in automotive environmental technologies – has utilised some of the £800m already committed to the development of technologies aimed specifically at reducing tailpipe CO2 emissions.

The Business Secretary met with members of Jaguar Land Rover’s Advanced Research team who are working on the development of sustainable technologies including hybrids and electrification. These technologies were demonstrated in the form of the Jaguar XJ-based Limo Green and the Range Rover Sport REHEV (Range Extended Hybrid Electric Vehicle) both of which are supported by Technology Strategy Board funding.

The Range Rover REHEV will run as a pure electric car for up to 12 miles in town and the diesel engine and electric motor will combine to drive all four wheels at higher speeds and when off-road. The target for its average emissions is 94 g/km CO2 and a zero emissions range up to 19 miles.

The ultra-efficient hybrid Jaguar Limo Green concept is a Range Extended Electric Vehicle developed in conjunction with Lotus Engineering, MIRA and Caparo Technologies. Based on the new, lightweight, XJ saloon launched in 2010, Limo Green features an advanced electric drive motor, battery pack and a small auxiliary power generator instead of the familiar Jaguar diesel and petrol engines. Limo-Green is targeting CO2 emissions of less than 120gm/km, fuel consumption bettering 57mpg and a top speed of 112mph. The overall range is 500 miles and in EV mode, an impressive 30 miles.

Dr Cable said: “The UK excels in making premium and niche cars and these are exported all over the world. A great example of the UK’s advanced research and development excellence is Jaguar’s Limo Green* ultra-low carbon technology project. An executive car that can do more than 50mpg with CO2 emissions from only 50g/km shows Britain’s premium car sector is more than capable of rising to the environmental challenges facing the car industry.”

Also on the agenda was the opportunity to view Land Rover’s much-anticipated new model, the Range Rover Evoque. This smaller, lighter, more fuel-efficient addition to the Range Rover line-up will represent a bold evolution of the brand when it goes on sale in 2011. The Evoque will be built at the company’s Halewood plant on Merseyside and creates 1000 new jobs – supported by a grant offer of £27 million from the Government.

Carl-Peter Forster, Managing Director and Group CEO of Tata Motors said. “Jaguar Land Rover has a central role in the UK’s automotive landscape supporting over 130,000 jobs and generating almost £6billion in export revenues alone. With annual investment in product creation set to top the £1billion mark Jaguar Land Rover is making a very clear statement of intent for its future and the critical role that manufacturing, engineering and R&D plays in ensuring the UK play its full part in a new low-carbon economy.”

Dr Cable met with the next generation of engineers and innovators undergoing training on the company’s industry-leading apprentice and graduate schemes. This year Jaguar Land Rover has recruited over 150 graduates and apprentices to work across its business, all with a common goal – to drive global competitiveness and respond to the very real challenges of climate change. As one of the country’s largest employers of engineering talent, Jaguar Land Rover is proud of the crucial role it plays in developing expertise in this area.

* Limo Green is a collaborative project funded by the Technology Strategy Board. Partners are MIRA, Caparo Technologies and Lotus Engineering

Source: Jaguar landrover

* TheCLS brings refined sportiness to life
* Visualisation of the Mercedes-Benz brand values
* Athletic proportions, perceptible design idiom
* Expressive front design features central star in the grille
* Dynamic, feature line flowing back towards the rear
* Elegance with handcrafted details in the interior

A generation ahead: with the CLS, Mercedes-Benz created a new vehicle category in 2003 which for the first time combined the elegance and dynamism of a coupé with the comfort and functionality of a saloon. The public were delighted, the competition astounded and a style icon was born: for years the CLS has endured as the only four-door coupé in its class, and since October 2004 it has been the car of choice for around 170,000 buyers worldwide. “Customers all over the world benefited from our bold move to launch a completely new vehicle concept onto the market,” explains a delighted Dr. Joachim Schmidt, member of the board of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales & Marketing. “And with its exciting design, the new edition of the CLS also benefits from the fact that we are a whole generation ahead of the competition with our four-door Coupé.”

Celebrating its world premiere at the Paris motor show (2 – 17 October 2010), the new CLS builds on the pioneering role of its predecessor yet at the same time is an entirely new edition. “The new CLS points the way forward for the future perceptible design idiom of Mercedes-Benz,” explains Professor Gorden Wagener, head of design at Mercedes-Benz. “At the same time it takes its inspiration from the great tradition of stylish, refined sportiness which has always been a feature of Mercedes coupés.”

The proportions remain as spectacular as ever: long bonnet, narrow-look windows with frameless side windows, dynamic roof sweeping back at an angle towards the rear. The four-door Coupé from Mercedes-Benz immediately made its mark in 2003 as a new style icon. Now the proportions are the same – and yet everything is different: the second generation of this design trendsetter has adopted a completely new look.

What immediately strikes the eye is the innovative front design, which is reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Visually, the radiator grille is not integrated into the bonnet but is formed separately. This highlights the long, sporty bonnet even further. The grille is dominated by the large central star, which underlines the car’s relationship to the other coupés of the brand and also enhances brand identity. The large, elongated dark air inlets with black grilles also add to the vehicle’s athletic appearance.

Design brings high-tech features to life

Another distinguishing feature comes in the form of the full LED headlamps, which are the world’s first to offer all of the regular dynamic light functions using LED technology. This innovation boasts an impressive design – inside they are divided into three arrow-shaped layers from top to bottom: the upper layer contains an LED indicator, beneath which is a striking LED side light offering LED low beam functions. The side light can also be seen when the dipped beam function is switched on, thereby creating a novel and separate night-time design and distinctive look. The lowest level of the headlamp houses the main beam and nightview functions. A total of 71 LED’s not only provide an unmistakable appearance, but also a significantly enhanced view of the road compared with previous systems.

The typical CLS outline, with its elegantly long proportions, is the dominating attribute of the new model. The effect of the dynamic, athletic form has been enhanced with a new interplay of lines and areas. The front edge of the structure, above the mudguards, which slopes off towards the rear – known as the dropping line by designers – is not only a novel design feature but also represents a new interpretation of a formal design element harking back to the uniquely rich wealth of forms present in historic Mercedes sports cars.

A distinctive and muscular sports car-like shoulder line above the rear axle highlights the athletic character of the new CLS. The flared wheel arches resemble the powerful thighs of a feline predator waiting to pounce.

The side view is rounded off with wide wrap-around tail lights featuring LED technology which are arranged in the form of a linking element to the rear of the vehicle. The shape is emphasized by the broad shoulder line, which is clearly visible from behind and supports the flat hardtop. A wide metal insert adds a further visual highlight at the rear.

The interior: design brings quality to life

The interior of the CLS is also distinguished by a timeless design which combines straightforward elegance with innovative details and handcrafted perfection. An eye-catching feature is the wrap-around effect of the cockpit: a high line sweeps from the driver’s door over the instrument panel support and across to the front passenger door. The central display has also been integrated harmoniously into the upper part of the instrument panel. At the same time, the downward sweeping side line on the doors continues the dynamic dropping line of the exterior.

As a design trendsetter, the CLS sets new standards in interiors with its wide variety of individualisation options. Five interior colours, five trim designs and also three qualities of leather are available to choose from.

The CLS also lives up to its role as a design icon thanks to the innovative nature of the materials used. These comprise an exciting mixture of satin and high-gloss finishes used on the metal surfaces. Highlights here also include matt galvanised air vents, for example, which form the ideal framework for a high-gloss-trimmed analogue clock.

Handcrafted perfection is reflected in details such as the stitched seat covers or the so-called sewn covering for the dashboard. For the latter, the individual parts of the leather cover are sewn together by hand in a process which takes several hours, after which they are fitted and upholstered with high-quality foam. Prior to this process, the leather is also heated up to preshrink it, so that it will retain its shape even after extreme exposure to direct sunlight.

The particularly fine, 1.6-millimetre thick semi-aniline PASSION leather which is used meets the highest standards in terms of both look and feel. Protected by only a light pigmentation, the natural pore structure remains intact and the leather has an especially warm and soft feel to it.

Customers can choose between three exclusive types of wood: high-gloss brown burr walnut, high-gloss black ash and satin-finish light-brown poplar. The wood has even been perfectly fitted around difficult contours for a masterful handcrafted finish, and the wood trim has been matched according to grain, as part of an elaborate selection process, to create a harmonised overall impression.

The interior can be given an even more progressive look with the addition of piano lacquer or carbon fibre trim elements. Handcrafted perfection once again plays a prominent role in the production process. Up to seven layers are applied and polished for the piano lacquer trim, for example, until the desired high-gloss finish is achieved.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

This sponsorship agreement will see Jaguar Land Rover further extend strong community ties with the city where it employs some 2000 people and has a dedicated Education Partnership Centre which annually supports over 7,000 school children.

Speaking at the launch today, Les Ratcliffe, Jaguar Land Rover Community Relations Manager said: “Today, Jaguar Land Rover, two of the world’s most iconic automotive brands, work side by side in the development of strong and lasting community partnerships which positively impact upon the local communities in which we operate. Jaguar has a very rich and well documented link to Coventry and has produced some of its most beautiful sports cars in the City. This new and exciting partnership with Coventry Rugby Club will provide a platform for us to further extend the work we are doing with local schools, sports and community groups.”

Source: Jaguar

As part of this deal Jaguar Land Rover will be engaging with the rugby club in the development of a number of new and inspiring initiatives, including the Jaguar Land Rover Academy which, in conjunction with local education establishments, will allow talented local youngsters the opportunity to gain post rugby qualifications whilst playing rugby part time. In addition a new Education Partnership Centre will open at the clubs ground that will offer a significant local community resource for Coventry and Warwickshire.

The desire to develop the next generation of sporting talent is shared by both Jaguar and Land through their respective sporting alliances. From cycling to sailing and athletics to football this is a wide ranging commitment but Rugby is central to both brands interests.

Land Rover recently announced a new four year sponsorship deal with both Premier Rugby and the Rugby Football Union which includes a brand new, country-wide grass roots tournament called the Land Rover Premiership Cup which will reach around 40,000 children over the coming four years. It is also Official Vehicle of both England Rugby and Premier Rugby, the umbrella organisationof the 12 Guinness Premiership clubs.

Jaguar this year launched its Academy of Sport which counts both Gareth Edwards and Shane Williams, heroes of Welsh rugby amongst its patrons. The Academy aims to recognise, celebrate and inspire the very best of British sporting talent and success with a Bursary Fund, prestigious annual Awards Ceremony, a unique club of the best of British sport and a vibrant website celebrating British sporting talent and achievement.

Peter Rossborough, Chairman of Coventry Rugby Club commented: “I am absolutely thrilled with this sponsorship. Our intention is to return Coventry Rugby Club to the top flight in English Rugby where it truly belongs. One of the first decisions taken by the new board was for the club to be Community- lead and this partnership with Jaguar Land Rover and their commitment to community engagement, fits this perfectly.”

United Autosports has ambitious plans for its second season by expanding its current Audi “official” customer program in 2011.

In addition to the FIA GT3 European Championship which the American-owned team has focused upon in its first year of competition, the Leeds (England) based team intends to enter a brace of Audi R8 LMS GT3 sports cars in the British GT Championship.

The team also plans to contest two “classic” endurance 24 Hour races, at the Nürburgring (Germany) and Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium), United Autosports placing third and fourth in GT3 in its maiden 24 hour race at Spa earlier this month.

Richard Dean, Managing Director & Co-Owner of United Autosports, confirmed: “United Autosports will continue in the FIA series but aims to complement this with a full British GT series campaign. Matt Bell has built a relationship with us at national level and is now doing a great job for us in the FIA series.

“It also makes sense to race in the UK as we’re based in Leeds. We already have a major UK sponsor [West London Audi] and are in negotiation with other potential ‘home’ sponsors. United Autosports made its race début in the British GT Championship. I’ve been very impressed with the quality and professionalism of the British series and look forward to regularly being a part of it next season.”

Zak Brown, Chairman & Co-Owner of United Autosports, added: “In addition to the FIA GT3 European Championship and British GT Championship programs, we aim to contest the Nürburgring and Spa 24 Hour races with the Audi R8 LMS.

“We’ve been extremely happy with the support United Autosports has received from Audi in our first year. We want to be a part of the German manufacturer’s customer plans again next year in preparation for an even bigger schedule that I’m aiming to achieve for 2012 and beyond.”

Source: Audi

Built by German tuning specialist G-Power, the Hurricane RR is powered by a twin supercharged V10 engine which produces 800bhp and was fitted with 19 inch Pilot Sports for the record-breaking run, in place of the standard 20 inch fitments.

A weight of two tonnes and a top speed of 232.5mph naturally places extreme demands on the tyres and as a technology partner to G-Power, Michelin provided high-performance Pilot Sport tyres in the dimensions: 255/35 ZR 19 at the front axle and 305/30 ZR 19 at the rear axle for this reason. For everyday use the G-Power Hurricane RR runs on 20-inch rims with 245/35 ZR 20 and 285/30 ZR 20 Michelins front and rear.

The G-Power Hurricane RR not only set new performance standards for top speed. With acceleration times of just 4.35 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, 9.5 seconds up to 200 km/h and 25.8 seconds up to 300 km/h the car is also leading the class in this area too.

Source: Michelin