The 2007 FT-HS is a hybrid sports car that debuted at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. The vehicle features all the essential sports car elements with an impressive hybrid powertrain. The design is a result of the Toyota’s California-based Advanced Product Strategy Group answer to the question “What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?”
They have managed to create a mid-priced sports car that combines the best of both worlds; environmentalists will love the hybrid aspect and other eco-friendly features such as remarkable fuel efficiency and ultra-low emissions. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the speed and performance achieved by the high-output powertrain. This is one of the exotic sports cars that you may actually be able to afford.
Power Under The Hood
The 2007 FT-HS boasts impressive acceleration thanks to its powerful V6, 3.5-litre front engine. Drives can accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h in a remarkable 4 seconds flat. The result of pairing with a high-tech sports hybrid system is a target power output of approximately 400 hp.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Saturn Sky
Dynamism, pace and agility are the prime features of the Saturn Sky roadster, which signals a new direction for the Saturn brand. First seen at the North American International Road Show in 2005, the Sky is the first vehicle to boast the new look which is to be a feature of Saturn’s entire product range in the future.
“Building on its accomplishments in customer sales and service satisfaction, Saturn is introducing a bold new product design to our vehicles,” stated Jill Lajdziak, Saturn General Manager. “For Saturn, the Sky is not the limit. It's only the beginning.”
Harmony through technology
The original inspiration for the Sky roadster came from the Vauxhall VX Lightning Concept, designed at the GM Advanced Design Studio in Birmingham, UK. Its exterior is a combination of taut, sharp lines and fluid surfaces. It features a powerful front end, including a chrome bar carrying an integrated Saturn logo.The technological sophistication which is key to the Sky’s image is also hinted at in the wide stance and short overhangs, with a convertible roof which folds neatly into the rear compartment. The headlamps feature halogen low beams and reflector optic halogen main beams, rounding off the exterior look.This same design concept is maintained in the Sky’s interior, with driver-centred displays and controls. Attention to detail can be found in the piano black and chrome finish, optional leather seats, and fine, jewel-like details on the lighting controls and HVAC.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
The fourth generation of Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, mainly produced in United States, was officially released at the North American International Auto Show in early 2007 (was held from 7-th to 21-th of January). The 2 door and 4 passenger fron-wheel drive Spyder model comes out from the GS with a 16 valve, 162 hp 2.4 L engine and more powerful GT model designation with 24 valve, 3.8 L engines which produce 260 hp along muscular bodylines. The GT models offer manual six-speed transmission or five-speed automatic Sportronic® one. Both model designations use the SOHC (Single overhead camshaft) based engines which allow to reach higher speed. In SOHC engines, the cam operates the valves directly.The 4G69 SOHC engine used in Eclipse GS SpyderBuilt in Japan, this engine has been used in Mitsubishi Eclipse (2005-onwards), Mitsubishi Lancer (2004-onwards), Mitsubishi Galant (2004-onwards), Mitsubishi Outlander (2004-onwards). It's maximal output is reached at 5750 rpm. 4G69 engines uses MFI fuel injection and MIVEC™ Variable valve timing. Bear in mind that variable valve timing doesn't mean economy in this case. Average fuel consumption sits somewhere around 13 litres/100 km.
The 6G75 SOHC engine used in Eclipse GT SpyderUsed in Mitsubishi models which include Eclipse (2005-onwards), Galant (2004-onwards), Montero (2003-onwards), Endeavor (2003-onwards), 380 (2005-onwards), a 3828 cc engine with 90 mm stroke, 95 mm bore produces max 263 hp. Unlike hardtop version, Spyder models' engines produce 260 hp.Design and dimensionsEven though this Mitsubishi with 2575 mm wheelbase is a small car, it is 4565 mm in lenght, 1835 mm in width, and 1381 mm in height. If equipped with 18“ wheels, it has 1389 mm in height. If you look at the interior, you'll see grate progress since last Spyder version. Clear dashboard lines in the wave-style affect very friendly. Gear shift is small which helps to switch between gears very fast. Controls such as audio system, climate control, etc, are positioned in the „user-friendly style“ with focus on ergonomic access. There's no way how to describe design through words; You should go for a test-drive in my opinion. Spyder's turning radius is more than 12 meters which makes some actions very difficult especially in city-traffic.
The 6G75 SOHC engine used in Eclipse GT SpyderUsed in Mitsubishi models which include Eclipse (2005-onwards), Galant (2004-onwards), Montero (2003-onwards), Endeavor (2003-onwards), 380 (2005-onwards), a 3828 cc engine with 90 mm stroke, 95 mm bore produces max 263 hp. Unlike hardtop version, Spyder models' engines produce 260 hp.Design and dimensionsEven though this Mitsubishi with 2575 mm wheelbase is a small car, it is 4565 mm in lenght, 1835 mm in width, and 1381 mm in height. If equipped with 18“ wheels, it has 1389 mm in height. If you look at the interior, you'll see grate progress since last Spyder version. Clear dashboard lines in the wave-style affect very friendly. Gear shift is small which helps to switch between gears very fast. Controls such as audio system, climate control, etc, are positioned in the „user-friendly style“ with focus on ergonomic access. There's no way how to describe design through words; You should go for a test-drive in my opinion. Spyder's turning radius is more than 12 meters which makes some actions very difficult especially in city-traffic.
Mazda 6 MPS
The new Mazda 6 MPS is the flagship model of the highly acclaimed Mazda 6 range, and is also the most powerful production sedan ever manufactured by Mazda. The brand’s main aim in producing the new model was to take their reputation for dynamism and high performance to a new level. The model is fitted with a turbo-charged MZR 2.3-litre DISI engine, all-wheel drive, and a chassis which has been upgraded to accommodate the additional power and torque offered by the Mazda 6 MPS.The increased power is provided mainly by direct petrol injection and the turbocharger, resulting in 256 bhp at 5,500 rpm, and peak torque of 280 lb/ft at just 3,000 rpm. The outcome of this extra power is that the Mazda 6 MPS can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 6.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of around 150 mph, yet still managing to achieve a fuel consumption of around 27.7 mpg. Power is transferred to the road through a brand new 6-speed manual gearbox, featuring wider gear ratios to allow for full exploitation of the extra power.
The Mazda 6 MPS’s Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive System is designed to adjust to both driving surface and situation, and allocated up to 50% of the vehicle’s engine power to the rear two wheels as and when requires. In total, the system employs three different all-wheel drive set-ups, and the correct one is chosen by the engine control module, allowing the driver to concentrate fully on the road. The three settings are “Normal”, “Sport” and “Stability”, the latter optimised for slippery surfaces such as ice and snow.A range of high-performance modifications have been made to the exterior of the traditional Mazda 6 for the Mazda 6 MPS model, complementing its sporty personality and up-rated performance credentials. The bonnet is endowed with a “power dome”, and other features include an increased air intake, a rear bumper with integrated diffuser, and a boot lid spoiler to provide increased down-force.Inside, the Mazda 6 MPS is dressed in unique fabrics and top quality materials. The cabin represents a combination of style, comfort, functionality and sportiness. Special features include a speedometer which has been scaled to 280 km/h (150 mph), 3-spoke leather steering wheel, leather gear shifter, aluminium pedals and bucket-style front seats. All the new interior features introduced in the Mazda 6 range’s 2005 facelift are also included as standard, including larger armrests, vertical interior handles on the doors, dark titanium surfacing for the centre console, and high-quality black sound system controls.
The Mazda 6 MPS’s Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive System is designed to adjust to both driving surface and situation, and allocated up to 50% of the vehicle’s engine power to the rear two wheels as and when requires. In total, the system employs three different all-wheel drive set-ups, and the correct one is chosen by the engine control module, allowing the driver to concentrate fully on the road. The three settings are “Normal”, “Sport” and “Stability”, the latter optimised for slippery surfaces such as ice and snow.A range of high-performance modifications have been made to the exterior of the traditional Mazda 6 for the Mazda 6 MPS model, complementing its sporty personality and up-rated performance credentials. The bonnet is endowed with a “power dome”, and other features include an increased air intake, a rear bumper with integrated diffuser, and a boot lid spoiler to provide increased down-force.Inside, the Mazda 6 MPS is dressed in unique fabrics and top quality materials. The cabin represents a combination of style, comfort, functionality and sportiness. Special features include a speedometer which has been scaled to 280 km/h (150 mph), 3-spoke leather steering wheel, leather gear shifter, aluminium pedals and bucket-style front seats. All the new interior features introduced in the Mazda 6 range’s 2005 facelift are also included as standard, including larger armrests, vertical interior handles on the doors, dark titanium surfacing for the centre console, and high-quality black sound system controls.
Lexus SC 430
The Lexus SC 430 has been re-designed for 2006, and now features new levels of poise, performance, power and style. The brand new front end includes revamped headlamps and a larger grille and bumper to add even more weight to the model’s already purposeful stance. Also visible is the arrowhead logo, also sported by both the GS and IS. The SC 430 is therefore clearly marked as the latest member of the brand’s next generation of vehicles.The new, twin-barrel headlamps are situated higher than the grille, giving the SC 430 a ground-hugging character, and emphasising this model’s ability to cross continents. The headlamps employ High Density Discharge technology, giving a width and clarity in the distribution of the light. Intelligent Adaptive Front-Lighting System (I-AFS) is also used to control the direction of the beam, swivelling the lamps by up to 15 degrees through cornering. The front air vents feature attractive lateral centre bars in chrome, updated indicator lights and new, glossy 18-inch alloy wheels. At the rear of the SC 430, the two-step tail-lights feature horizontally aligned rear lamps as well as a high-intensity LED, which reinforces the legibility of the rear number plate.In terms of options, the latest SC 430 comes in a choice of nine different colour schemes, with two brand new options (Red Metallic and Premium Brown) and three new standard schemes (Premium Silver, Grey metallic and Premium Beige).The interior also features a number of subtle changes, including a revised instrument cluster and new colour combinations for the A pillar and head lining. A brand new interior colour scheme, Camel, is added to the existing Ecru and Black schemes. The range of finishes has been extended, to include two wood grain options – medium brown Walnut and dark maple Bird’s Eye.
2007 Jaguar XK
The release of the 2007 Jaguar XK marks the beginning of a new era for the manufacturer in terms of engineering and design. Its predecessor, which went out of production in June 2005, was the fastest selling Jaguar sports car in the marque’s history, and the challenge for the 2007 team was to build upon that success. The new XK features extraordinary engineering which will delight even the most discerning Jaguar customer, including aluminium chassis, high-tech transmission and luxurious interior. The new model was launched in spring 2006, firmly placing Jaguar as the world leader in lightweight vehicle production, whilst guarding the manufacturer’s reputation as a producer of stunning, beautifully designed cars
Sports styling
The 2007 XK is noticeably sportier than its predecessor, yet retains the classic Jaguar characteristics of elegance, modesty and maturity. With the hard top in place, it resembles a classic low-slung coupe. The front-wing power vents have become a new styling signature for Jaguar, and most recently featured on the XJ Super V8 Portfolio. Further homage to models gone by is paid by the grille opening, rear liftback and hood power-bulge, all of which echo the Jaguar E-type.The interior of the new XK carries modern, luxurious materials and high-quality craftsmanship. Features include finely stitched leather and high-tech metallic trim finishes. The layout of the cockpit is driver-centred and sporty, including body-hugging sports seats, which are set very low to increase the ‘sports car’ feel.Like the old model, the 2007 XK is available in a two-door coupe or two-door convertible setup, each model having been developed separately under the one design program.
Sports styling
The 2007 XK is noticeably sportier than its predecessor, yet retains the classic Jaguar characteristics of elegance, modesty and maturity. With the hard top in place, it resembles a classic low-slung coupe. The front-wing power vents have become a new styling signature for Jaguar, and most recently featured on the XJ Super V8 Portfolio. Further homage to models gone by is paid by the grille opening, rear liftback and hood power-bulge, all of which echo the Jaguar E-type.The interior of the new XK carries modern, luxurious materials and high-quality craftsmanship. Features include finely stitched leather and high-tech metallic trim finishes. The layout of the cockpit is driver-centred and sporty, including body-hugging sports seats, which are set very low to increase the ‘sports car’ feel.Like the old model, the 2007 XK is available in a two-door coupe or two-door convertible setup, each model having been developed separately under the one design program.
Infiniti Coupe Concept
The 2006 North American International Auto Show saw the unveiling of a dramatic new concept car, the Infiniti Coupe Concept. At the same auto show, Infiniti also showed their new luxury SUV, the 2006 FX45, equipped with a V8 engine, and the FX35, carrying a V6.The Coupe Concept follows the Infiniti tradition of combining high performance engineering with vibrant design. This tradition has helped to cement Infiniti as one of the major brands in the luxury vehicle market, and their 2006 model takes their reputation to the next level.
The exact details of the Coupe Concept remain a mystery, with very little technical data having been published at the time of writing. Given than almost every Nissan/Infiniti is powered by the VQ35 engine, it is likely that the Coupe Concept will house a version of this powerhouse. The fact that the model is being heralded as the next G35 suggests that power output will be in the region of 300.
Styling
The Coupe Concept’s exterior styling features a full-length glass roof, front fenders and hood which are modulated, a low front spoiler and enormous projector headlamps. Other striking features include polished metal-look paint, exterior rear view mirrors which feature compact camera technology and huge 20 inch, nine-spoke aluminium alloys.The flanks of the Coupe Concept look remarkably similar to those found on the marque’s G35 model, with the addition of a body kit. The overall shape and size of the back 3/4 windows is similar to the production G series, the only change being a slightly more pronounced tilt. The sweeping lines and large rear fenders also echo the G35, and the rear lamps, like those at the front, resemble those found on the M sedan.Inside, the Coupe Concept boasts a performance-geared cockpit, yet provides luxurious space for passengers with a “double wave” instrument panel and enormous, violet-lit gauges and a dramatic centre console. Textured aluminium trim and accents bring an extra sense of crispness and warmth to the Infiniti’s interior.
The exact details of the Coupe Concept remain a mystery, with very little technical data having been published at the time of writing. Given than almost every Nissan/Infiniti is powered by the VQ35 engine, it is likely that the Coupe Concept will house a version of this powerhouse. The fact that the model is being heralded as the next G35 suggests that power output will be in the region of 300.
Styling
The Coupe Concept’s exterior styling features a full-length glass roof, front fenders and hood which are modulated, a low front spoiler and enormous projector headlamps. Other striking features include polished metal-look paint, exterior rear view mirrors which feature compact camera technology and huge 20 inch, nine-spoke aluminium alloys.The flanks of the Coupe Concept look remarkably similar to those found on the marque’s G35 model, with the addition of a body kit. The overall shape and size of the back 3/4 windows is similar to the production G series, the only change being a slightly more pronounced tilt. The sweeping lines and large rear fenders also echo the G35, and the rear lamps, like those at the front, resemble those found on the M sedan.Inside, the Coupe Concept boasts a performance-geared cockpit, yet provides luxurious space for passengers with a “double wave” instrument panel and enormous, violet-lit gauges and a dramatic centre console. Textured aluminium trim and accents bring an extra sense of crispness and warmth to the Infiniti’s interior.
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