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The new BMW M5 Touring

Powered by the back-to-back International Engine of the Year-winning engine driving through BMW’s unique seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox, the new M5 Touring offers up to 1,650 litres of boot space for owners needing to move sizeable loads…… quickly.

Performance
With the previous M5 Touring (E34) only available in left-hand drive, the arrival of the new M5 Touring marks the first time the high-performance estate has been offered to British customers. Powered by the same normally aspirated 5.0-litre V-10 cylinder engine as its Saloon counterpart, the new M5 Touring redlines at 8,250rpm. 507hp and 520Nm of torque propel the car from zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds (only 0.1 seconds slower than the Saloon). Without the 155mph electronic limiter the new M5 Touring would be capable of achieving 200mph while still transporting the largest of loads.

This balance of ultimate practicality and performance is summed up by Lee Connolly, BMW UK’s Product Manager for the new M5 Touring “The M5 Touring will be the perfect car for delivering supercar owners’ luggage to their holiday homes in France or Spain. Usefully, their luggage will arrive before they do!”

Transmission
These levels of performance are in part made possible by the world’s first seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox with Drivelogic in a production car. The gearbox features eleven different change patterns to offer the driver a personally-tuned driving experience - six settings vary speed and response of gear change in a manual mode and there are five automatic modes. A Launch Control function delivers the fastest possible acceleration from standstill.

Traction
Like the Saloon, the new M5 Touring features a three-stage DSC+ traction control system. The default mode offers drivers high levels of performance and stability. M Dynamic Mode allows an enthusiastic driver the ability to push the M5 Touring to, and beyond, the absolute limits of traction, permitting some sideslip and countersteering before the system cuts in and is selected in the M Drive Manager (see below). If the DSC button is pressed, DSC+ is completely disengaged.

BMW M’s variable M differential also offers the highest levels of driving stability and traction, especially when accelerating out of high-speed corners, with up to 100 per cent of drive being transferred to the rear wheel with most traction. Finally, the Electronic Damper Control (EDC) system offers three suspension settings to complement the prevailing driving conditions.

MDrive Manager packages these programmable settings, so that the touch of a single button sets the car up as required. Like a boy visiting his favourite sweet shop, the M5 driver can select his preferred settings for power, gearbox, EDC and DSC modes, Head-up Display and the degree of Active Seat bolster support, via the iDrive menu. One-touch of the M Drive button on the steering wheel then selects the desired combination and instantly changes the character of the car. One moment the M5 Touring is a placid and practical family car, the next it’s more akin to a track day special.

Exterior design
Visually, the new M5 Touring follows BMW M’s philosophy of high performance shrouded in the body of a standard car with discreet styling enhancements that highlight the potential under the skin. The larger front air dam, side sills, monikered side gills and a rear valance with BMW M’s quad tailpipes protruding all hint at the performance of the world’s most dynamic estate car.

Interior
Internally the new M5 Touring features the same enhancements as the ‘standard’ 5 Series (see below) as well as offering the Active Seat bolsters from the M5 Saloon. In addition, the Touring variant comes with BMW’s innovative iDrive control system with new short cuts - eight freely programmable buttons for instant porgramme selection. Finally, music aficionados can now specify the BMW Individual High End Audio system that uses 16 loud speakers to generate an ear-ringing 825 watts.

The new BMW M5 Touring starts production in March 2007 and will be priced at £67,075 on the road in UK.

2007 Jeep Trailhawk Concept. Detroit News

After JE DESIGN, a well-known SEAT customising specialist, tuned the new Leon two months prior to its market launch, the same tuning specialist from Leingarten, Germany, has now turned its attention to the “FR” version.

• Power boost FR-TDI up to around 142 kW / 193 bhp and 410 Nm
• Power boost FR-TFSI up to around 180 kW / 244 bhp and 355 Nm
• 19 inch set of wheels “Multispoke” and suspension lowering by 35 mm
• 4-piston sports braking system
• Complete aerodynamic body-styling kit

The core of the modifications is the power boost to the 2.0 TDI engine. Instead of 125 kW (170 bhp), it now generates a solid 142 kW (193 bhp) with a torque increase from 85 to 410 Nm. The modifications to the engine management system permit better driving performance: A top speed of 224 km/h (series: 218 km/h) and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds (series: 8.2) send out a clear message! The power boost comes with a TÜV parts certificate. Needless to say, the TDI still complies with the EI regulations. An electronic power boost for the new 2.0 TFSI with 147 KW / 200 bhp leads to a terrific 180 kW (244 bhp) with a torque boost up to 355 Nm at 1,850 rpm. Here, too, the modifications to the engine management system permit enhanced driving performance: A top speed of 235 km/h (series: 229 km/h) and acceleration from 0 to 100 in 6.5 seconds (series: 7.3)! This power boost also comes with a TÜV parts certificate. In each case, the price includes a 1-year guarantee on the engine, drive train and gearbox. Upon request and subject to an extra charge, this can be extended by a further 12 months. A power boost for the new Leon CUPRA 2.0 TFSI with 176 KW / 240 bhp is in the pipeline.

JE DESIGN starts on a sporty note at the front by fitting a new front grille without a brand logo that features a grille insert. Headlight eyebrows lend this Spaniard a more aggressive look.

A sporty front spoiler featuring an additional air vent in the corners make the Seat Leon look even classier when overtaking. JE DESIGN enhances the side view by fitting a set of side sills. The tuning specialist completes the rear view of this Spaniard by fitting a rear apron. Last but not least, a rear spoiler goes to create greater downforce on the rear axle, particularly at high speeds. These aerodynamic body-styling components are also available as a complete kit. In addition, it is also possible to order the self-adhesive JE-DESIGN roof fin "Shark attack" in a matt black finish.

Upon request, it is also possible to order a 4-pipe stainless steel rear silencer with chrome-plated tailpipes. This not only promises to generate an awesome sound, but also optimises the engine performance by reducing the back pressure.

The growing desire for chrome also leaves its mark on the Leon range from JE DESIGN. Besides a four-piece set of door handle surrounds, the price also includes the B-post trim "3 D Chrome" with a chrome inlay and a rear door surround in addition to the trim panel for the lower section of the boot lid.

Customers can choose from five sets of wheels. The climax of the offering in 17, 18 and 19 inch versions is the “Multispoke” complete set of wheels in chrome look in the dimension 8.0 x 19 ET 45 with size 225/35 R 19 Y tyres.

JE DESIGN also ensures that the Seat Leon remains sure-footed despite its extra power. The suspension range comprises a set of sports suspension struts, which brings the Leon FR around 30mm closer to the ground, and which noticeably improves the handling and ride comfort due to the lower centre of gravity.
Alternatively, the tuning specialist offers sportier handling in the form of a coil-over suspension kit, which changes the road clearance of this fiery Spaniard in the range from 35 to 65 mm. Upon request, constantly-acting deceleration from high speeds is guaranteed by a 4-piston sports braking system (330 x 28 mm) on the front axle.

Lexus unveiled the IS-F high-performance luxury sedan at a press conference today at the 2007 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

The all-new 2008 IS-F high-performance luxury sedan will deliver more than 400 horsepower from a 5.0-liter V8 engine when it goes into production. This exciting new car make a dramatic statement of Lexus performance.

The "F" designation was first conceived nearly 20 years ago with a project internally coded "Circle-F," with the "F" standing for "flagship." This was the original code for what became the Lexus Division. The Circle-F designation further evolved into the code name Flagship One, or F1, and the first F1 concept developed into Lexus' first vehicle, the LS. Since then, the "F" code has come to signify a special vehicle program within Lexus that falls outside the normal engineering and development process.

"Lexus has long been perceived as the maker of mainstream luxury vehicles, but the unveiling of the IS-F not only changes this perception, it also introduces a new Lexus marque," said Bob Carter, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. "The 'F' shared by both vehicles is the signature for a new high-performance marque conceived by an engineering team that dared to turn their dream of 'a Lexus like no other' into a reality."

IS-F Performance Sedan
Much of the development of the new IS-F took place at Fuji Speedway and the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center in Japan. The IS-F is based on the proven rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS, which is equipped with a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. As well as the IS performs, Lexus engineers demanded much more of the all-new IS-F. The result is a performance tuned 5.0-liter V8 engine, topped with specially engineered heads fed by a two-stage intake system, that produces 400-plus horsepower and more than 350 ft.-lbs. of torque. The all-new IS-F is equipped with engine-oil and transmission-fluid coolers for high-speed performance and a cylinder head-scavenging oil pump for high g-force driving.

The IS-F engine is mated to the world's first eight-speed direct sport-shift transmission. A new torque-converter lock-up control was developed that allows for a direct, crisp gear change through the constant lock-up of the torque converter in second through eighth gears. In Drive mode, the IS-F transmission performs with great smoothness, and the torque converter allows for great launch ability for fast standing-start acceleration that will register a zero-to-60 time in less than 4.9 seconds.

This unique transmission also features an advanced Manual mode. A pair of paddles located within a fingertip's reach behind the steering wheel enables the driver to make ultra-fast up-shift gear changes within a tenth of a second. Downshifts are accompanied by automated and incredibly precise throttle blips to match engine RPM to vehicle speed.

The impressive acceleration achieved by the IS-F requires it be equipped with heavy-duty Brembo brakes designed to the specifications of the Lexus engineering team. Huge, 14.2-inch cross-drilled front discs are gripped by rigid, powerful six-piston aluminum calipers, while 13.6-inch rear cross-drilled discs feature two-piston calipers. High-friction brake pads are equipped on all four wheels. The brakes are finished with the Lexus name displayed on the calipers, a first for a Lexus production vehicle.

The IS-F features custom-designed 19-inch forged alloy wheels as standard. The wheels were built to Lexus specifications by BBS and are surrounded by high-performance sport tires.

The attention to performance also extends to a modified suspension that lowers the entire car by more than a half-inch when compared to the base IS, and one full inch when compared to IS models equipped with 18-inch wheels. This specially modified suspension allows for an exciting and energetic drive, whether on a race track or the streets.

The IS-F features an all-new three-mode version of Lexus' Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. In addition to the Normal mode, the new VDIM features a Sport mode that allows the driver to push the car even further before its braking-, throttle- and steering-control systems kick in. The third VDIM system mode is Off, which allows the driver to push the IS-F to its ultimate level of handling performance.

The attention to performance is complemented by modified styling cues that differentiate the IS-F from the standard IS. Lexus engineers provided the IS-F with a dual-exhaust system and quad-tail pipes, wider front fenders, and a larger grille and rear spoiler. Both the hood and lower intake were enlarged to accommodate and cool the V8 engine.

Like the exterior, the interior of the IS-F receives unique styling with aluminized composite trim and special surface treatments. The instrument panel includes an oil-temperature gauge and shift indicator-lights, while the "F" logo is showcased on the steering wheel and rear-center console.

In addition to the usual Lexus standards of comfort and convenience, the interior of the IS-F features specially shaped and trimmed seats, which hold the driver comfortably and securely in place. The special sport seats are available in black or a unique high-contrast white and black trim.

"The intent of creating the IS-F was not to be a competitor to other performance-sport sedans," said Carter. "Rather, the goal was to create a true performance sedan in a uniquely Lexus way-one that is totally authentic with a unique interpretation of raw driving thrill at all speeds and provides a whole new definition of 'usable power.'"

The IS-F will arrive at Lexus dealerships in early 2008.

Lexus IS-F Preliminary Specifications

Powertrain
Engine: 5.0 Liter V8
Estimated Horsepower: More than 400
Estimated Torque: More than 350 lb.-ft.
Transmission: Eight-speed direct paddle sport shift gear box

Brakes
Large diameter cross-drilled discs
Front/Rear: 14.2 inches/13.6 inches

Opposed aluminum calipers
Front/Rear: Six piston/two piston

Wheels
Forged aluminum wheels
Front: 225/40R19 (19 x8)
Rear: 255/35R19 (19 x 9)

Performance
0-60 MPH Acceleration: Under 4.9 seconds
Fuel Economy: TBD
Emissions Rating: ULEV II

Dimensions (inches)
Overall Length: 183.5
Overall Width: 71.5
Overall Height: 55.5
Wheelbase: 107.5

2007 Land Rover Range Rover Sport.

By Warren Brown / The Washington Post

Love for Range Rover Sport HSE overlooks its sins

NEW YORK - It made no sense. I spent $128 on premium gasoline for a round-trip drive of 600 miles -- 21.3 cents a mile for fuel alone for the 2007 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE.

There were other penalties. My favorite East Side garage charges $10 extra to park sport-utility vehicles. That was painful, but fair.

Sport-utility vehicles occupy more real estate than most cars. Real estate is valuable, especially in this city where a one-bedroom condominium can cost $2 million.

 
The Range Rover Sport HSE is a big sport-utility vehicle. It cost nearly $30 a night to park it here in a 24-hour protected garage.

Parking it on the street was next to impossible, especially in the East Village where my youngest daughter, Kafi, lives in a tiny apartment. On the one occasion I found an on-street parking spot in her neighborhood, I had to pay the worry penalty.

"How much is that Range Rover?" Kafi asked.

"About 60,000 bucks," I said.

Kafi looked concerned.

"Lots of cars are stolen around here," she said. "Most people don't park expensive cars on the street. Are you sure you want to leave it there?"

I wasn't. But I was sure that, despite its consumptive nature and the many costs and concerns attached to that affliction, I loved the Range Rover Sport HSE -- loved driving it, being in it, loved the overall feel, look and even the smell of it.

Love is blind, but I could not resist the power, prowess and prestige of the Range Rover Sport HSE. Thus, I found myself in the nation's busiest and arguably most congested metropolis in a vehicle that could scramble up mountains, ford streams, or, as demonstrated in a television advertisement, descend steps, enter subterranean tunnels, and drive 200 feet beneath the streets of Tokyo during rush hour.

The seductive word here is "could." It appeals to the American sense of entitlement. It speaks to the American notion of preparedness, which says you should always have more than you'll ever need or use just in case you need to use it.

Certainly, the Range Rover Sport HSE is one of the most capable sport-utility vehicles, on the road or off, available anywhere.

Depress and turn a rotary switch on the center console and automatically set the vehicle for maximum traction and handling on a variety of driving surfaces -- dry pavement, wet or snowy roads, sand and gravel, mud or mountain rock climbing. Executives at Land Rover, the overseer for the Range Rover brand owned and controlled by Ford, call this their "terrain response" system. It works. I like it.

A "tilt control" technology enables the Range Rover Sport HSE to drive at a 35-degree angle with near-perfect traction. A "hill descent control" feature allows you to descend the steepest hills at a constant, safe, low speed. And despite its weight of 5,468 pounds and ground clearance of 8.9 inches, dimensions that could yield unwieldy top-heaviness, the Range Rover Sport HSE, with the proper terrain setting, is so remarkably stable and agile it truly lives up to the "Sport" part of its name.

Vehicles such as car-based tall wagons, which are combination station wagons and minivans masquerading as SUVs, have more seating and cargo space than the 4.4-liter, 300-horsepower V-8, four-wheel-drive Range Rover Sport HSE. The tall wagons generally are more fuel-efficient and city-friendly, especially in terms of parking, than the Range Rover or other truck-based sport-utility models.

But none of that matters when pride and lust for power take hold. You want a worldbeater, or at least a vehicle that looks and acts like one as long as there's fuel in the tank. You want the Range Rover Sport HSE; or, perhaps, you'd prefer its even more powerful sibling, the Land Rover Range Rover Supercharged.

Go on. Enjoy. You can deal with the "power corrupts" issue later.