In another "near-production" study (read: soon-to-be-released) from VW/Audi, the firm makes an economical splash at the Paris Auto Show with its A4 TDI concept e. Using an efficiency-tuned version of the 2.0-liter diesel engine found in the Volkswagen Jetta TDI clean diesel that's been wowing enthusiasts and setting mileage records, the A4 makes due with 20 less horsepower (120 total) and about 22 less lb-ft. torque (214) - plus a few other econo-tricks - in the name of astonishing efficiency from an approximately 3,500-lb. sports/luxury car. How does 58 mpg sound to you and your wallet?
The econo-tricks mentioned above are similar to those employed on hybrids and fuel-efficiency models popping up across the automotive spectrum, and include items like the low-rolling resistance tires found on cars like the Chevy Cobalt XFE, regenerative braking employed by the likes of the Toyota Camry Hybrid, the increasingly popular engine stop/start feature making its way into luxury brands like the BMW 3-series, and electrically-boosted power steering like that found on products like the new Acura TL. In addition to these more predictable fuel-saving measures, the A4 goes the distance with soft springs on the intake valves (creating less drag on one camshaft, ergo less fuel-sipping drag on the engine), and variable-rate technology on its fuel pump and A/C compressor that uses only as much engine energy as needed for those items, not one iota more.
Taking efficiency to the extreme are electrically-actuated rear brakes, magnesium parts in the six-speed transission with its economy-minded ratios, and even an insulating wrap on the transmission to heat its fluid more quickly, all this in the name of reducing friction and therefore the energy costs of moving this slick new A4 down the road.
Even the vehicle's electronics get in on the fuel-saving game, with the navigation system choosing the most efficient route possible, or the car's electronics running the driver through an "economy training program." Cars may soon be forcing us to get involved with driving...it's nice to think that we may be challenged behind the wheel once more, what with distronic cruise control, lane-departure warnings, and stability control taking the helm these days while many drivers are too busy texting to be bothered.
Of course, there is a performance price for high economy. 10.7 seconds to 60 mph hardly rates as exciting, though it is on par with the Toyota Prius. And with stellar mileage, suave styling, and tenacious handling courtesy of Audi's stiff new A4 platform wearing 225/50 low-rolling-resistance tires, the A4 should put the appliance-like Prius to shame. Suddenly the thought of driving an economy car doesn't seem so depressing.
Plenty of low-end torque from the little turbodiesel should make stoplight-to-stoplight easy and stress-free (much like the insta-torque of an electric motor from rest), and as long as you plan ahead for freeway on-ramps, a range of 996 miles (assuming the standard 16.9-gallon fuel tank) should provide more than adequate compensation for reduced 0-60 mph times.
Long the purveyor of impossibly elegant hardtop coupes like the CL550, Mercedes takes "sense and sensuousness"--Jane Austen is surely rolling in her grave--to a new level in its concept FASCINATION coupe, an early predictor of the next E-Class lineup due in 2010.
The mechanicals are based on a "future E-Class Coupe," Mercedes said as it introduced the new concept to the Paris auto show crowds. The lineup of the next E-Class will include a four-cylinder diesel with 204 horsepower. That's a version of the diesel we'll see in the Benz GLK sport-ute.
Edging over into the Brits' playbook, Mercedes claims it took design inspiration from the classic Shooting Brake idiom, also an inspiration for the Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe. But they are careful to note that the FASCINATION is as useful as it is stylish, and claim to have incorporated impressive amounts of cargo capacity and stunningly decorated passenger space in a segment often defined by cramped quarters and form that trumps function. The gracefully arcing Mercedes hardtop tradition is thankfully continued, albeit with a greater sense of forward motion along the lines of its successful, aggressively styled CLS four-door coupe.
Interior materials are said to be inspired "by the world of equestrianism," and that means loads of leather climbing onto portions of the dashboard. Aluminum, fabrics, and wood are also used throughout. Featuring materials straight from a Bang and Olufsen showroom, even the luggage compartment is lined with a melange of wood, aluminum, and smoked glass, they say. Oh, and in case you have to transport some delicate organic radicchio home for the family, a refrigerated compartment and a humidor are included. (No frozen mixed veggies for my children.)
VW is calling the new GTI a "study," but what's left to study when all the GTI's usual goodness is applied to the latest and greatest Golf/Rabbit?
That sixth-gen Golf platform will be getting a workout in its new GTI edition. Ringing in with 210 hp from its 2.0-liter TFSI four, the direct-injected dynamo is a thinly-disguised (if disguised at all) preview to the '09 production version of the sixth generation of VW's iconic hot hatch, which sold worldwide to the tune of some 1.7 million units in its last generation.
Bringing power (and economy) to the people, the company claims its corporate 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct-injected powerplant will accelerate the new GTI from rest to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds while efficiently achieving consumption ratings of 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers (that's roughly 31 mpg in U.S. terms). We're guessing that number will turn out to be the U.S. EPA's highway rating, but regardless those are laudable consumption figures for a vehicle so fleet of foot.
The GTI being such a huge seller for VW, this release is VW's self-proclaimed "absolute highlight" at the Paris Auto Show. Rightfully so, with the basic golf platform selling like hotcakes worldwide despite otherwise horrific auto sales, world construnction slowdowns, escalating gas prices, financial market fiascos, and general malaise.
By the numbers, the engine makes 206 lb-ft torque at 1,800 rpm, the suspension has been lowered by nearly an inch, and 149 mph is the speed at which the new GTI "reaches a stand-off between wind resistance and output."
VW GTI hatchbacks have been putting affordable, economical smiles on American's faces since the first Rabbit-based GTI hit the scene in 1983, and we can't wait to strap ourselves in and put the newest iteration through its paces.--Colin Mathews
The 2008 Lamborghini Estoque four-door concept: here for your comments, haters and Lambo lovers.
The first four-door Lamborghini has been confirmed by the Italian automaker (and Volkswagen Group brand) in advance of the show later today in the City of Lights.
The sedan is 202.8 inches long. The front end sports huge air intakes reminiscent of the Reventon, and underneath, it's expected to sport a version of the 552-horsepower V-10 from the LP560-4, along with all-wheel drive. V-12 and hybrid versions are theoretically possible; the press release below offers scant details on its powertrain but speculates on hybrid V-8 and diesel versions. That's counter directly to what Lambo CEO Stephan Winkelmann told TheCarConnection.com at the launch of the Gallardo Superleggera, when he said the brand would offer no hybrids and no diesels--what a difference $4 gas makes!
It's a concept now, but all indications are that Lamborghini will produce the Estoque in limited numbers starting in 2010, to take on the likes of the Aston Martin Rapide and the Porsche Panamera.
Stay tuned for more information about the Estoque from the Paris Auto Show.
Lamborghini Estoque – the Italian super sports sedan
It is a Lamborghini like no other before it: a four-door sports car that sticks
resolutely to its creed. The Lamborghini Estoque concept has everything that
defines a Lamborghini: extreme, uncompromising and unmistakably Italian, it
brings a whole new versatility to the brand’s DNA – with its four seats and
ample luggage space, this “everyday sports car” is a perfect fit for an equally
versatile lifestyle.
Estoque is a study, a concept created specifically for the 2008 Salon
d’Automobiles in Paris. From the very first glance there can be no doubt that
this is a Lamborghini – a car with compelling presence, both unique and
unmistakable. The long wheelbase, the low profile, the broad track, the mighty,
accentuated wheels, the clean surfaces and razor-sharp definition – every
single line breathes the spirit of the Lamborghini brand.
A new and unique elegance
The Estoque is an entirely new interpretation of the Sant’ Agata design ethic: it
is a concept that provides a clear indication of the future. This applies to the
new, elegant self-confidence of the lines themselves, but even more to the
concept of the vehicle. The Estoque is the first sedan in the history of
Automobili Lamborghini, although “sedan” is more a reference to the number
of doors than any other characteristics. Even sports sedan is an inadequate
classification: the Estoque establishes a new category of super sports sedans.
With a powerful front mid-engine, permanent all-wheel drive and a
sophisticated, precision-tuned chassis, the Estoque boasts a unique technology
package.
A sign of success
In Paris, the Lamborghini Estoque demonstrates the innovation, the creativity
and the design flair of the Lamborghini brand, currently represented by the
enormous success enjoyed by Lamborghini’s Gallardo and Murciélago super
sports cars.
As a concept, the Lamborghini Estoque represents one of several possibilities
for a third model series within the Lamborghini product line-up. At this point in
time, no decisions have been taken in respect of either a third model series of
any kind or of the Estoque concept in particular.
Of course, as a true Lamborghini, it goes without saying that the Estoque also
bears a suitably powerful name with a rich heritage from the Spanish Corrida –
bull fighting. The Estoque is a rapier (sword), approximately 90 centimetres
(35.43 inches) long, used in a bull fight by the Matador.
The Concept
Estoque embodies the concept of a Lamborghini that is both a dedicated
sports car and a relaxed Gran Turismo. As a sedan with four doors and four
individual sports seats, it is a multi-faceted vehicle for multi-faceted lifestyles.
Relaxed Gran Turismo
The Lamborghini Estoque is the perfect travelling companion, be it en route to
business meetings, the theatre, the golf course or even a weekend away with
the kids. At the end of the day, it is the only car that allows you to share the
singular driving pleasure of a Lamborghini with more than one person –
possibly even with the whole family. And there is still enough room left over for
weekend luggage or several golf bags.
Despite its extremely low profile – at a mere 1.35 meters (4.43 feet) high – the Lamborghini Estoque is surprisingly spacious. The secret lies in its very long
wheelbase which, in spite of the rearwards positioning of the front mid-engine,
enables a relaxed, sporty seating position. Entering and exiting is also
pleasingly straightforward through the large, wide-opening doors.
Challenging: a thoroughbred sports car
At the same, the Lamborghini Estoque is a thoroughbred sports car with
exceptionally refined power delivery, razor-sharp precision handling and a
meaty engine tone. Challenging driving pleasure on a winding mountain road,
followed by a relaxed, enjoyable journey along miles and miles of motorway–
the Lamborghini Estoque is commanding across the entire driving spectrum, at
the highest level. The Estoque’s versatility makes it the perfect addition to the
range of Lamborghini super sports cars.
Design
Such a Lamborghini must be immediately recognizable in its design as a unique
and unmistakable work of art. For the Estoque, this is clearly a case of “mission
accomplished.”
The proportions of the Lamborghini Estoque are simply fascinating: no other
automobile combines so convincingly the elegance of length with the sporting
attributes of a low profile and impressive breadth. Or to put it into figures – the
concept painted in an all-new color, is 5.15 meters (16.89 feet) long and 1.99
meters (6.53 feet) wide, with a height of only 1.35 metres (4.43 feet). The
wheelbase is a stately 3.01 meters (9.88 feet) – an equally important element of
elegant vehicle architecture.
And it is unequivocally Italian – the flat bonnet, the long wheelbase, the narrow
window openings, the flat rear that ends decisively with a negative return – it is
all pure “Italianità” on wheels; everything bears the design language of the
large classic Italian four-door cars, albeit with a unique, modern interpretation.
Pure Lamborghini.
Clearly a sports car
The front end of the Estoque is a clear and unambiguous statement of its
sports car credentials. Its place amongst the family of Lamborghini super
sports cars is also distinct and unmistakable – with its swooping V-shape, its
two large air intakes pulled forward and the small front spoiler in between. This
front end design gives the Estoque a firm, low stance, while providing excellent
aerodynamic efficiency. The large air intakes facilitate the cooling air that is
important for such a high-performance vehicle and the spoiler was specifically
designed to improve aerodynamic balance at high speeds.
Such distinctive sports car architecture is only possible by positioning the front
mid-engine well towards the rear. Despite the very low bonnet, it goes without
saying that the Estoque fulfils all safety regulations and pedestrian protection
standards.
Taut muscles
The bonnet of the Estoque makes the origins of the sheer power of this vehicle
immediately apparent. The location of the engine is clearly evident through the
distinct division created by two large air outlets and the additional emphasis of
a central power area. Further air outlets are positioned both left and right in
the wings, behind each of the front wheel arches.
Together, with the division of the bonnet, these elements add emphasis to the
area above the wheels, framing the front end of the Estoque like a taut muscle.
The permanent all-wheel drive that is typical for all Lamborghinis means that
the 22 inch wheels, with their new five double-spoke design, also do their part
in delivering power to the road. Here too, the Centro Stile has stuck firmly to
the Lamborghini principle that form always follows function; after all, the
ample cooling air flowing into the high-performance driveline also has to move
quickly out of the vehicle.
Tremendous tension along the flanks
Its proportions guarantee the Lamborghini Estoque an impressive appearance.
The skilled sectioning along the flanks of the vehicle gives the body shell an
incredibly muscular form. Beneath the flat surfaces of the bonnet, the
incredibly powerful shoulder line, a further side line rising slightly towards the
rear and, finally, the equally distinct sill line all add emphasis to the flow of
power from the engine to the magnificent 23 inch rear wheels. The masculine
profile is completed by the negative return of the rear end. This adds further
tension to the form of the Estoque – the whole car looks coiled and ready to
pounce at the drop of a hat. These sharp lines frame a fascinating interplay of
surfaces across convex and concave curvatures. The Estoque clearly displays
the design language of the Centro Stile Lamborghini with a distinctive
elegance.
Powerful elegance at the rear
The flow of form is brought to its conclusion by the broad, even expanse of the
rear end. The horizontal split created by the flat LED light clusters and the
large, mesh-covered lower air outlets bring additional emphasis to this breadth.
A narrow, slightly slanted “frame” panel surrounds the whole rear aspect and
further highlights its powerful elegance.
Precise details, such as the hexagonal fuel caps on both sides of the vehicle,
characterize the depth of the design language. The front headlamps, featuring
bi-Xenon and LED technology, carry forward a theme evident in both the
Reventón and the Gallardo LP 560-4 – the Y-shape of the daytime running
lights. The tiny green/white/red flag adorning the front wings discreetly
highlights that an automotive statement as uncompromising as this one can
come from only one country on Earth – from Italy.
The interior
Despite its extremely low profile, the Lamborghini Estoque offers a surprisingly
generous feeling of spaciousness. The length of the interior facilitates a
relaxed seating position for all four individual seats and plays a significant role
in the supreme comfort of this super sports sedan over long distances. The
interior reflects elements of the exterior design language, also evident in the
cabin of the Estoque – in the distinctive lines of the door panels or in the
swooping V-shape applied to the cockpit, reflecting the form used on the front
end and on the bonnet.
Luxurious interior
The dominant material of the interior is highest-quality Nappa leather. The four
individual seats boast sporting contours, supreme long-distance comfort and
extensive electrical positioning options.
Cockpit with large-screen display
The cockpit presents the driver with a large-area LCD screen displaying vehicle
and route information. A range of presentation formats are available for
selection depending on personal preference – a distinctive classical layout with
circular instrument dials, or an innovative digital display. A top-class audio
installation and a sophisticated rear seat entertainment system round off the
equipment.
Like the interior, the luggage compartment of the Estoque is also surprisingly
spacious. Despite the low-profile rear end, it has plenty room for several golf
bags or pieces of luggage.
Production feasibility
As a pure concept car, the Estoque is a design exercise and a further indication
of the innovative power of the Lamborghini brand. Yet, it is based on a feasible
technical concept that offers a whole range of fascinating alternatives for the
body shell and driveline.
Just like the brand’s super sports cars, the Estoque uses a mid-engine layout.
However, the high-performance driveline used here is not located in front of
the rear axle, as in the Gallardo and Murciélago or in the Reventón, but behind
the front axle. This front mid-engine concept, with the driveline set way back,
facilitates balanced weight distribution and a centre of gravity close to the
vehicle’s vertical axis. Both ensure the unparalleled agility and handling
precision of a mid-engine vehicle.
Reserves in every situation
Like all contemporary Lamborghini models, the Estoque is also equipped with
permanent all-wheel drive. It distributes the engine power to all four wheels,
thus making for superior traction in all driving situations, as well as providing
extra reserves for extremely sporty driving and for challenging weather
conditions.
A range of drivelines is conceivable for the Estoque. This is headed up by the
highly-acclaimed Lamborghini ten-cylinder from the Gallardo LP 560-4 – with
more torque and higher revving than virtually any other engine. A
complementary alternative could be a turbocharged eight-cylinder derived
from this V10. A particularly economical, but nevertheless dynamic, variation
would be a V8 with a hybrid module or an extremely high-performance TDI.
The Centro Stile Lamborghini
With the Estoque, the Centro Stile Lamborghini has created further proof of its
creativity and attention to detail. The design centre that opened in 2004 is a
studio of creatives, designers and model makers that combines the culture and
the spirit of the brand with the power of innovation and of creating a new
aesthetic. The Centro Stile Lamborghini is part of the best tradition of Italian
vehicle design, and is leading the way forward with the latest in working
techniques.
The Centro Stile is located in a 2,900 sq. meter (31,215 sq. feet) facility, where it
occupies two interconnected floors. The generously proportioned design studio
is equipped with two full-size surface tables and their associated tooling and
measuring equipment, while further areas house the latest in computer
workstations for the creative experts and a workshop for the model makers.
The Centro Stile is also connected directly to the neighbouring Ufficio Tecnico –
the direct link to Lamborghini’s development department ensures the rapid
realization of ideas. Speed is a key aspect for Lamborghini, for both its cars and
its working processes; the Reventón was created in the record time of less than
one year.
In-house creativity and implementation
From the first sketches made either on paper or using the three-dimensional
computer program, through 1:10 or 1:4 scale models to full-size models, the
complete design process is organized within small, fast-moving teams.
Since it was founded, the Lamborghini brand has been bringing innovative
design trends to the rarefied atmosphere of the world’s most desirable
automobiles, and producing vehicles with absolutely unmistakable character.
Models such as the Miura and the Countach were way ahead of their time, but
quickly attained the status of timeless classics. From their first appearance,
every new Lamborghini is destined to become a legend and sought-after
collectors’ item.
With the current Murciélago and Gallardo, Lamborghini has once again
perfected an innovative design language. The exterior proportions provide an
indication of the power and dynamic character of the driveline. Crisply-defined
edges, precision lines and clean surfaces result in a design that is reduced to its
very essence.
Every element is designed precisely in accordance with its function. Examples
of this on the Murciélago LP 640 include the movable cooling air intakes and
the asymmetric sills; on the left side of the vehicle, the air intake is significantly
larger to accommodate the flow of fresh air to the oil cooler.
Clear lines, perfect details
The unmistakable form of a Lamborghini is something that always speaks for
itself: ornamentation or decoration of any kind has absolutely no place here.
This firmly places the current models that bear the sign of the bull within the
best traditions of their brand and of 60s and 70s Italian vehicle design. The
sports cars of that time were acclaimed for their perfect proportions and for
their objective, functional elegance that required no embellishment of any kind.
The purist execution of the lines is complemented perfectly by the passion for
detail possessed by the designers in Sant’ Agata Bolognese. The rear view of
the Murciélago LP 640 is distinctive not only for its impressive power, but also
for the fine interplay of the elements in the sophisticated rear light cluster.
The sensuality of precision and performance
A Lamborghini is a high performance athlete. Its high degree of sensuality is
based on precision, performance and spontaneous action. This type of
elegance is the elegance of pure, unadulterated power. This Lamborghini DNA
is carried forward into future products at the Centro Stile, which is destined to
continue to set clear design trends – the Estoque is the perfect example.
The design centre on the site of the historical birthplace of all Lamborghinis
guarantees the super sports cars with the bull brand will remain exclusive,
sensual and challenging – and always unmistakably Italian.
Saab's showing more of the 9-X Air BioHybrid concept, a new concept revealed at the Paris auto show this morning.
The new concept's Speedster-like "Canopy Top" gives a different spin on the notion of a Saabconvertible, while the rear deck maintains a certain height to provide better crash protection than ordinary convertibles, Saab says in a release. The four-seat concept's top stacks neatly beneath that rear pillar line. With the top up, Saab says, the Air sports a real coupe profile.
The BioHybrid concept shares the powertrain of the 9-X concept shown last year--a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that's ethanol-capable.
Take note of the nifty electronica on the dash and door panels, where translucent plastic hides Bionic Man-style graphics that change according to function--as the 9-X asks this go-round, should it accept or decline the Mondiale de l'Automobile? All signs point to "accept." There's plenty of white-on-grey action in the compact four-seat cabin, like a downer day in Stockholm, but the dash is artfully wrapped around the driver and there's a clear indication of buildability in the 9-X's proportions and interior package.
More tech details to follow--this morning, enjoy some photos from the show floor:
Veteran auto journalist Marty Padgett gives you news and opinions on the latest, hottest, greenest and fastest new vehicles on the market--and what's coming down the road.
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