Much of the body of the new Audi A6 consists of aluminum and high-tech steels, rendering it exceedingly light, stiff and safe. State-of-the art design methods and materials ensure extremely low interior noise levels. Precision tuning of all components and systematic hydraulic damping in the axle and drivetrain bearings provide excellent vibrational comfort.

The design of the new Audi A6 embodies athleticism and elegance. The sedan is 4.92 meters (16.14 ft) long and 1.87 meters (6.14 ft) wide, but just 1.46 meters (4.79 ft) high – sporty proportions that are unrivaled by the competition. The long engine hood, the low, sweeping roofline and the prominent lines on the flanks create a dynamic overall appearance. Optional LED headlights emphasize the striking expression at the front.

The roomy interior of the new Audi A6 echoes the sinewy style of the exterior. The salient element is the “wrap-around” – an inlay encircling the driver and the front-seat passenger. The elegantly curved dash panel places the driver at the center of the interior.

Every detail of the interior is a testament to the care that Audi invests in carmaking. All materials, including an innovative layered-wood veneer, have been selected and crafted with the utmost care. As an option, the front seats can be equipped with ventilation and massage functions. Classy ambient lighting in the lighting package provides small points of light throughout the interior.

The new Audi A6 features the logical ergonomics concept that distinguishes all of the brand’s models. A highly efficient automatic air conditioning system and the latest-generation MMI radio operating system are standard; Audi also offers an optional head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield. The MMI touch operating system is also available as an option. This enables much of the hard-drive MMI navigation plus system to be controlled by means of a touchpad.

The online services, developed though a partnership between Audi and service provider Google, connect the full-sized sedan to the Internet via the Bluetooth car phone online. A UMTS module pulls images and information from Google Earth up on the monitor and integrates them with the navigation route. A WLAN hotspot provides contact to mobile terminals on board. The top of the hi-fi line is the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System.

MMI navigation plus works closely together with the optional assistance and safety systems in the new A6. It forwards the route data to the control units for the headlights, the automatic transmission and the adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. This enables these systems to recognize complex scenarios and assist the driver. In many situations, the Audi pre sense safety system is able to reduce accidents and their consequences, or even prevent them altogether. The Audi active lane assist helps the driver keep the A6 on course, and the park assist system relieves the driver of the chore of steering when parallel parking.

Audi offers the A6 with a choice of five powerful, highly efficient engines: two gasoline engines and three TDI units. These powerplants develop between 130 kW (177 hp) and 220 kW (300 hp). All of these engines make use of important technologies from the brand’s modular efficiency platform – the start-stop system, the energy recovery system, and the innovative thermal management concept.

Throughout the entire model line, fuel consumption in the A6 has decreased by up to 19 percent compared to the previous model. In terms of consumption figures, the A6 outperforms the competition.

The most powerful unit in the range is the 2.0 TDI. In conjunction with a manual transmission, it requires on average just 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (48.00 US mpg) and emits just 129 g CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile). The A6 hybrid will be available from Audi at a later date. Serving up 180 kW (245 hp) of system performance, its 2.0 TFSI plus electric motor will achieve efficient and sporty acceleration with an average fuel consumption of only 6.2 liters per 100 km (37.94 US mpg) (provisional figure).

As was the case with the previous model, the new Audi A6 is also available with a wide range of drivetrains. The choice, based on the engine version, will include a manual six-speed transmission, the continuously variable multitronic, and the brand-new, sporty S tronic. Each unit is precisely tuned and features a wide gear-ratio spread, thereby making a significant contribution to the sedan’s efficiency.

Depending on the engine version, power is funneled via the gears to the front wheels or to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, whose crown-gear center differential and torque-vectoring function achieve the ultimate traction, stability and dynamic response. For the top-of-the-line engines, Audi will offer an optional sport differential.

The chassis of the new A6 combines sporty precision with supreme comfort. Its links are made of aluminum; the redesigned power steering features a highly efficient electromechanical drive. The executive sedan has wheels ranging from 16 to 20 inches in diameter.

The Audi drive select dynamic handling system is standard, and the front-wheel-drive models have the sporty ESP with electronic limited-slip differential on board. For enhanced comfort, adaptive air suspension with controlled damping is available as an option. Dynamic steering will be available soon, also as an option.

Wolfsburg / Munich, 26 October 2010
In the USA it is the most successful car of any European producer: the Jetta. Between the East and West coasts of America, up to 110,000 vehicles of this model series are sold annually. Americans value the Jetta as a highly safe and sporty saloon with “German Engineering.” In June, Volkswagen unveiled – in an event receiving international attention with stars like Katy Perry at the centre of New York’s Times Square – a completely new generation of the world bestseller with over 9.6 million units built so far. Now, the most impressive Jetta ever is also launching in Europe. This heralds a new era for this model series between Helsinki and Rome, Istanbul and Lisbon. The latest version of “the” saloon of the compact class is expected to carry over its US success to Europe.

This Volkswagen has the potential to do just that. Never before has a Jetta had this much sports appeal, this much fuel efficiency or this large a size. The times when the saloon was simply derived from the Golf are a thing of the past. From now on, these two successful models will go their own ways. The new Jetta, now significantly longer (4.64 metres long instead of the previous 4.55 metres), is very appealing as a high-end, spacious and sporty saloon with maximum active driving performance.

Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn: “We have completely retuned the technology and styling of the Jetta. That is why our number 1 selling car in America will also be extending its position in Europe from now on.” The Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG continues: “At prices from €20,900, we are offering a Jetta that will add a new dimension of quality to the saloons of the compact class.”

And in fact, this Volkswagen – available in Trendline, Comfortline and Highline equipment versions – takes an enormous leap forward in concept and styling. As mentioned, the saloon’s design is no longer derived from the Golf; instead, it follows its own line of styling. This makes the Jetta a strong and independent model series just like the Eos and the Tiguan. Designers and engineers also came up with an entirely new interior. The five-seat saloon’s rear seating layout is significantly more spacious (6.7 cm gain in legroom) thanks to the car’s longer wheelbase – a result of the increased vehicle length. With these dimensions, the Jetta ideally fills the gap between the compact Golf (4.20 metres long) and the new large Passat (4.77 metres long).

Uncompromising efficiency

Even its smallest engines are truly great successes. Take the example of the 1.6 TDI with 77 kW / 105 PS: In the BlueMotion Technology version, this common rail turbodiesel only consumes 4.2 l/100 km (equivalent to 109 g/km CO2). Consider the 1.2 TSI that also outputs 77 kW / 105 PS and has BlueMotion Technology: This direct-injection turbo petrol engine only requires 5.3 l/100 km (equivalent to 123 g/km CO2), which is exceptional considering that this is a saloon with petrol engine that can move at 190 km/h. As already noted, the Jetta 1.2 TSI costs €20,900 in the Trendline version. The base price of the Jetta 1.6 TDI Trendline with BlueMotion Technology: €23,475. Additional power levels: a TDI with 103 kW / 140 PS and three TSIs with 90 kW / 122 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS. So, the Jetta is being driven exclusively by charged, high-tech, direct-injection engines. All engines except the 105 PS TSI may be combined with a dual-clutch transmission (DSG).

Three equipment lines

Trendline: The Trendline equipment line is still the entry-level model to the world of the Jetta. When it comes to safety, standard equipment includes six airbags (with an optional eight), five crash-optimized head restraints (on front seats with anti-whiplash design), daytime running lights, belt fastening detection, automatic hazard flasher lights that activate with hard braking, Hill Climb Assist and ABS with braking assistant and ESP with trailer stabilisation.

Exterior features of the Jetta Trendline include details such as 205 tyres on 16-inch steel wheels, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors with integrated turn signals and green tinted heat-insulating glass. Inside, comfort and convenience are upgraded with details such as climate control (Climatic), dust and pollen filter, radio remote control of central locking, outside temperature indicator with road icing warning, chrome bezels for the air vents, multifunctional display (MFA) and a height-adjustable driver’s seat (with fabric seat covers in “Cardeol” design).

Comfortline: The medium equipment version, the Comfortline, is offered at prices from €22,600 (Jetta 1.2 TSI with 77 kW / 105 PS). This model’s exterior is distinguished by chrome accents in the radiator grille and 16-inch, five-spoke “Mambo” alloy wheels.

Inside, the Jetta Comfortline is upgraded with details such as storage pockets on the backrests of the front seats, centre armrests (with storage compartment in front), 8-way adjustment of driver and front passenger seats, comfort seats with elegant fabric upholstery in “Sienna” design, woven floor mats, the RCD 210 radio-CD system, a Chrome Pack (including rotary light switch and control dial for climate control) and what is known as the Small Leather Pack (leather-trimmed steering wheel, gearshift grip and parking brake grip) as well as black accents (“Black Pyramid”). Also standard: the Park Pilot (front and rear), lowering of the passenger side door mirror when reversing and four reading lamps (2 in front, 2 in rear).

Highline: The most exclusive Jetta version is the Highline equipment line. It may be ordered in combination with TSI engines from 90 kW / 122 PS (base price: €24,575) as well as all TDI power levels (base price of 77 kW / 105 PS: €25,875). Exterior features beyond those of the Trendline and Comfortline: 17-inch alloy wheels (ten-spoke “Porto” type), chrome frame around lower air intake screen, chrome trim under the side windows, headlight cleaning system and front fog lights with cornering lights.

A Winter Pack (including heated front seats and heated windscreen washer nozzles) helps to get through the coldest season of the year. Inside, features that refine the top model include sport seats with fabric covers (“Gloss”) and artificial leather, particularly elegant accents (“Iridium Printed” pattern) and an automatic climate control (Climatronic).

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 customers were delighted, the competition taken aback: for many years the CLS remained the only four-door coupé in its class and since October 2004 it has been the car of choice for some 170,000 buyers around the globe. “Customers all over the world have rewarded us for our courage in launching a completely new vehicle concept onto the market,” explains a delighted Dr Joachim Schmidt, Head of Sales & Marketing for Mercedes-Benz. “And with its exciting design and refined sportiness, 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.”

The engines: higher output, yet up to 25 percent lower fuel consumption

Efficiency at the highest level: that is what characterises all four engines deployed in the Mercedes-Benz CLS. The output and torque of each engine is greater than in its predecessor; at the same time, fuel consumption has been drastically reduced, by up to 25 percent. Two 6-cylinder models will be available at first at the European market launch in January 2011: the CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with 195 kW (265 hp) and the CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCY with 225 kW (306 hp) and the ECO start/stop function as standard. Just two months later, the engine range will be expanded to include the CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with 150 kW (204 hp). In the ECE fuel consumption test cycle it requires a mere 5.1 litres of diesel/100 km. The CLS 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, with a V8 engine and 300 kW (408 hp), will follow in April. Both drive variants also have the ECO start/stop function as standard.

Lightweight construction and aerodynamics: important contributions to efficiency

Intelligent lightweight construction plays a decisive role in bridging the classic conflict of objectives between low weight and high strength in the new CLS. The CLS is thus the first vehicle from Mercedes-Benz to have frameless, all-aluminium doors. These are made from deep-drawn aluminium panels with extruded sections, and in comparison with conventional steel doors, are some 24 kilograms lighter. Apart from the doors, the bonnet, front wings, boot lid, parcel shelf, various support profiles and substantial parts of the suspension and engines are all made of aluminium.

Aerodynamics play an important part in the outstanding efficiency of the Mercedes-Benz CLS. Although the new model is wider than its predecessor and thus presents more frontal area to the wind, it was possible to reduce wind resistance by up to ten percent. This is thanks to the Cd value of 0.26, which has been improved by 13 percent.

Electromechanical power steering: a new steering experience

Marrying the ultimate in driving dynamics to the very best in long-distance ride comfort, was the challenge set for the designers and developers of the suspension system for the new Coupé, which aspires to be the epitome of stylish sportiness in both form and function. To achieve this, the suspension system, which had already attracted the highest praise from both the trade press and the public when introduced with the new E-Class, was completely re-tuned and enhanced with a key new component: the electromechanical power steering system makes its world debut in the new CLS. This pioneering innovation makes a new and radical contribution to the relationship between driver, car and road: engineers have, for the first time, been given the freedom to select and to program many of the parameters which influence the steering feel.

In addition, the steering system makes an important contribution to the CLS’ overall efficiency: as the steering support system only uses energy when the vehicle is actually being steered, fuel consumption is cut by up to 0.3 litres/7 g of CO2 compared to the previous model.

For the front suspension, the concept of a three-link front axle design was chosen – just as for the E-Class – and was especially developed for the new CLS. The principle of a lightweight-construction multi-link rear suspension which is attached to a subframe, as used in the new E-Class, was adopted for the CLS as a result of its unsurpassed wheel location qualities. In comparison to its predecessor, all the components have been modified to give both greater comfort and better driving dynamics.

LED High Performance headlamps: greater visibility and full functionality

The CLS is the first passenger car in the world to offer LED High Performance headlamps, which combine the exciting colour elements of LED technology – similar to those of daytime running lamps – with the performance, functionality and energy efficiency of today’s bi-xenon generation (as an optional extra). This new light system provides, for the first time ever, the Intelligent Light System already proven in Mercedes models fitted with bi-xenon headlamps in combination with LED technology. The headlamps, with their 71 LED lamps in total, look exciting; and they serve to underline the unmistakable appearance of the CLS. The light specialists from Mercedes-Benz have for the first time been able to use LED technology in the admired and innovative Adaptive Highbeam Assist, resulting in an entirely new level of safety for night-time driving.

In contrast to the first vehicles equipped with LED headlamps, no compromises are now necessary with respect to the functionality and performance of the lighting technology. There are further arguments for the LED-based lighting technology: the average operating life of an LED is around 10,000 hours, around five times longer than that of a xenon light; moreover, LED headlamps most closely approximate to the colour of daylight. This means that LED light is in keeping with the normal human perception patterns and that the driver experiences significantly more brightness on the road at night. Studies have shown that the closer the colour of artificial light comes to daylight, the less the strain on the eyes. With a colour temperature of 5500 kelvin, LED light is closer to daylight (6500 K) than xenon light (4200 K).

New driving assistance systems: greater safety

More than a dozen driving assistance systems on the new CLS help to prevent traffic accidents and reduce the severity of an accident. The Active Blind Spot Assist and the Active Lane Keeping Assist are new.
Active Blind Spot Assist warns the driver if – with the assistance of short-range radar sensors – it detects that there is a danger of collision if the vehicle is about to change lanes. Should the driver ignore the warnings and the vehicle come dangerously close to the next lane, Active Blind Spot Assist will intervene. By applying braking force to the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle via the Electronic Stability Program ESP®, a yaw movement is created which counteracts the collision course.

Active Lane Keeping Assist is now also linked to ESP® for the first time. This system kicks into action if the Mercedes vehicle inadvertently drifts over a solid line to the right or left of a lane. In this case, Active Lane Keeping Assist uses the ESP® to gently brake the wheels on the far side and thereby bring the vehicle back on course. A display on the instrument cluster warns the driver at the same time. If broken lane markings are crossed, the system controls an electric pulse generator in the steering wheel which generates vibrations for a short time – a discreet but highly effective cue to countersteer immediately. Before the braking system intervenes, the steering wheel always vibrates to provide a warning.

The exterior: classic Coupé styling with distinctive front

The new CLS continues with the pioneering role of its predecessor and at the same time shows itself to be a brand-new star on the scene. 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 strengthens the brand identity.

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 wings slopes off towards the rear. This novel design feature, called the dropping line by designers, 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 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 lives up to its role as a design icon through the innovative material finishes used. An example of this is the exciting interplay of satin-finish and shiny metallic surfaces. The CLS also exudes refined sportiness with its lavish and high-class trim elements which can be found on the instrument panel support, the centre console and parts of the door trim. The customers can choose between three exclusive wood types: high-gloss brown burr walnut, high-gloss black ash and satin-finish light-brown poplar. The interior is given an even more progressive look with the addition of piano lacquer or AMG carbon fibre trim elements.

La apuesta escandinava para el segmento Crossover

# Saab entra en un segmento en crecimiento como el de los Crossover
# Diseño escandinavo inspirado por el Concepto Aero X
# Dinámica de conducción y prestaciones, entre las mejores de su clase
# Avanzado sistema de tracción Saab XWD en combinación con el chasis adaptativo Saab DriveSense
# Amplio habitáculo orientado al conductor y gran capacidad de carga
# Motores compactos, ligeros y eficientes 265 CV 3.0V6i y 300 CV turbo 2.8V6
# Sistema de carga flexible

El nuevo 9-4X aporta el diseño único de Saab y sus valores de ingeniería para el creciente segmento de automóviles Crossover de tamaño medio. Con su aspecto escandinavo y su innegable herencia aeronáutica, ofrece un comportamiento y unas características de conducción que son un desafío y un punto de referencia en el segmento.

Con el 9-4X, que hará su estreno mundial en el próximo Salón del Automóvil de Los Angeles, Saab amplía su gama de productos a tres líneas de coches y ofrecerá una nueva e interesante alternativa a los compradores de vehículos Crossover. Se trata de un importante paso en el renacimiento de la marca sueca como fabricante independiente de automóviles premium.

Musculoso y con aptitudes deportivas, el 9-4X se alinea en apariencia y tamaño entre el 9-3X todo terreno y el nuevo sedan 9-5. Interior y exteriormente, muestra claramente la identidad de Saab con un diseño limpio y despejado, su parabrisas envolvente, su especial iluminación, el habitáculo orientado al conductor y su gran capacidad de carga.

De acuerdo a la tradición de Saab, el 9-4X se configura en torno a una estructura creada expresamente como vehículo Crossover, lo que ha sido clave para conseguir una facilidad de conducción excepcional. Todas sus propiedades tienen el apoyo del avanzado sistema de tracción total, el Saab XWD, y el control de chasis adaptativo DriveSense.

Bajo el capó, se encuentra una gama de motores V6, compactos y eficientes, atmosféricos y turboalimentados. El motor de 265 CV, 3.0 litros para el modelo base cuenta con inyección directa y distribución variable, mientras que el 300 CV 2.8 litros cambia la inyección directa por un turbocompresor de doble entrada y es exclusivo de las variantes Aero.

Ambos motores están acoplados a transmisiones automáticas de seis velocidades con control electrónico adaptativo.

“El 9-4X amplia significativamente el atractivo de la marca Saab”, afirma el Consejero Delegado de Saab Automobile Jan Åke Jonsson, “Nos da la entrada en un segmento como el Crossover en pleno crecimiento con un vehículo que refleja nuestros valores de marca en áreas clave, como el diseño, el rendimiento deportivo y la conducción responsable. El 9-4X es un producto apasionante y estamos seguros que será de interés para muchos de los actuales clientes de Saab, y nos permitirá captar nuevos clientes para la marca. ”

El 9-4X se pondrá a la venta en Estados Unidos en mayo del próximo año, y las ventas en Europa y otros mercados globales comenzarán a partir de agosto. Los precios se darán a conocer poco antes de iniciar su comercialización.

Carrocería esculpida por Saab

El 9-4X muestra una presencia amplia y poderosa, con líneas limpias y ordenadas que se inspiran en el espíritu de diseño escandinavo de Saab. Su aspecto distintivo, que tiene mucho en común con el nuevo 9-5 sedan, se inspira en el premiado Concept Car Aero X, con su característica parrilla y la iluminación con efecto “bloque de hielo”.

El tono y la construcción de los pilares del parabrisas y las puertas contribuyen a crear el efecto envolvente del habitáculo, un rasgo tradicional de la marca. Otros puntos que permiten identificar el sello Saab son el diseño de los faros, la cintura de la carrocería y el efecto también envolvente de la luneta trasera.

La línea del techo es visualmente baja y se prolonga por un alerón totalmente integrado en la parte superior del portón trasero. En la parte trasera, la iluminación aplica un concepto introducido en el nuevo 9-5 sedan, una barra iluminada por un tubo LED se prolonga por la trasera. Las salidas de escape romboidal también están perfectamente integradas en la moldura inferior del parachoques.

En general, la carrocería del 9-4X está libre de decoración innecesaria. Una protección oscura se aplica a la parte inferior, pero no se encuentra ningún añadido como revestimientos de rueda o protecciones especiales.

Las llantas de aleación de 18 pulgadas, son de serie, mientras que los modelos Aero se distinguen visualmente por llantas de aleación de 20 pulgadas “turbina”de nueve radios y rejilla frontal en negro.

Habitáculo de inspiración aeronáutica

El habitáculo del 9-4X ofrece un amplio y cómodo espacio para cinco adultos, y se distingue por la disposición, al estilo Saab, de todos los controles del coche orientados hacia el conductor. La consola central y todos los instrumentos adoptan forma de arco alrededor del puesto de conducción. En el 9-4X esta consola se presenta en acabado de madera o fibra de carbono para el Aero.

Otros detalles son sutiles referencias a la herencia aeronáutica de la marca como la lectura de velocidad al estilo de un avión, iluminación en tonos verdes para las agujas de los diales principales, salidas de aire con reguladores “joystick” y el botón de encendido Start/Stop situado entre los asientos delanteros junto a la palanca de cambio.

Los grandes asientos incluyen de serie un ajuste eléctrico de 8 posiciones para el conductor y un ajuste eléctrico de los pedales como opción. Los pasajeros traseros disfrutan de un alojamiento amplio que no se ve penalizado por la presencia de una tercera fila de asientos. También se benefician de un ajuste manual independiente, de cada respaldo con tres posiciones.

La gran capacidad de almacenamiento a bordo incluye dos bolsillos con cubierta en todas las puertas, una guantera frontal de dos niveles y una bandeja profunda en la consola central con enchufe de 12 voltios y conexiones USB y AUX. Los pasajeros de la zona trasera tienen espacio de almacenamiento adicional en la cara posterior de la consola central y el reposabrazos central.

La oferta de dispositivos de información y entretenimiento ofrece dos opciones de audio: una con siete altavoces y otra tope de gama con diez altavoces Bose con sonido envolvente 5.1. El sistema de navegación con pantalla táctil de 8 pulgadas incluye una vista de mapas “ojo de pajaro” y 10 Gb de almacenamiento. La comunicación en marcha se apoya en un sistema de teléfono integrado Bluetooth, que funciona a través de comandos de voz y mandos manos libres en el volante, así como la pantalla central.

En la parte trasera, los pasajeros pueden disfrutar de su propia climatización y oferta de entretenimiento a través de una unidad especial en la parte posterior de la consola central y dos pantallas de 8 pulgadas que se cierran como las de un ordenador portatil situadas en la parte trasera de los asientos delanteros. Los pasajeros pueden elegir una fuente de audio alternativa a la de la parte delantera, ver un DVD o disfrutar de un reproductor independiente, como una consola de juegos o una cámara digital, conectada a través del puerto de entrada AUX.

Capacidad de carga adaptable

El maletero del 9-4X ha sido optimizado para ofrecer un gran espacio y facilidad de uso. Los asientos traseros han sido diseñados para plegarse en un solo movimiento sin mover los cojines del asiento o quitar los reposacabezas retráctiles. Al plegarse hacia delante permiten disponer de una superficie de carga completamente plana.

La parte delantera dispone de un compartimento practicable a través de un asa como la de un avión que revela un espacio adicional para objetos. El piso dispone de ganchos que permiten que la carga quede organizada de forma práctica y eficaz.

Para mayor comodidad, el portón trasero se puede accionar a través de un control remoto, que controla el sistema el hidráulico que puede ser abierto totalmente o programado para una posición más baja en lugares con altura limitada como un garaje.

En movimiento

El Saab 9-4X aporta al segmento Crossover prestaciones y facilidad de conducción propias de los turismos. Numerosas pruebas comparativas respecto a vehículos similares presentes en el mercado, han permitido validar las cualidades del 9-4X para el confort de marcha, el bajo nivel de ruido y la manejabilidad. En diversas situaciones, las prestaciones se han situado al nivel de los mejores de su segmento.

La clave es que el coche se beneficia de un chasis diseñado de forma específica para un vehículo Crossover, sin realizar ninguna adaptación desde un sedan o un wagon ya existente.

Las tecnologías avanzadas de conducción incluyen el Saab XWD. Este sofisticado sistema de tracción varía con constantes ajustes la entrega de par motor entre los ejes delantero y trasero. Este sistema preventivo, ligero y rápido, ofrece la mejor adherencia en cualquier tipo de condición, carretera seca o terreno resbaladizo. Se combina con el (eLSD) un control electrónico autoblocante del diferencial trasero que puede transferir hasta un 50% del par entre las ruedas traseras para conseguir mayor adherencia.

En la especificación Aero, conductor y coche trabajan más en equipo gracias al Saab DriveSense. Este sistema controla la amortiguación en tiempo real realizando ajustes de forma constante que ayudan a que el vehículo se adapte a la forma en que es conducido y a las condiciones de la carretera. Además de los reglajes inteligentes, instalados por defecto, el conductor también puede seleccionar los modos “Confort” y “Sport”. El modo “Eco”, activado por un botón separado, modifica la respuesta al pedal del acelerador y el escalado del cambio para conseguir la mayor economía de combustible.

Otras ayudas a la conducción son la dirección de esfuerzo variable y la iluminación de serie bi-xenón que proporciona una mejor iluminación de las curvas adaptando el ángulo del haz de luz al ángulo de la dirección.

Motores eficientes

La gama de motores del 9-4X se compone de dos eficientes propulsores V6 de aluminio con transmisión automática de seis velocidades. Estos motores, ligeros y compactos, cuentan con distribución variable de 24 válvulas, tanto en admisión como escape y ofrecen un rendimiento propio de motores de gran cilindrada.

El motor atmosférico 3.0 de 265 CV está destinado a la versión base y cuenta con inyección directa de combustible. Impulsa el 9-4X de 0 a 100 Km/h en sólo 9.0 segundos.

Disponible sólo para la versión Aero, el motor 2.8 turbo de 300 CV ofrece un espectacular par motor de 400 Nm entre 2.000 y 5.000 rpm. Acelera de 0 a 100 Km./h en 8.3 segundos.

Líderes en seguridad

La máxima seguridad complementa las destacadas prestaciones y el 9-4 X se beneficia de los 50 años de experiencia de Saab en la protección de ocupantes. Los test de colisión de la marca sueca y las simulaciones por ordenador, se basan en lo sucedido en accidentes reales. La mayor parte de requerimientos de seguridad establecidos por Saab para sus coches están por encima de los legalmente requeridos o los que llevan a cabo asociaciones de consumidores.

El éxito del trabajo de Saab se refleja en las encuestas de accidentes del Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) de Estados Unidos y la compañía sueca de seguros Folksam, donde los coches Saab obtienen de forma regular buenas calificaciones, en varias ocasiones, las mejores en su segmento. El Saab 9-3 y el nuevo 9-5 han recibido las máximas calificaciones en los crash test de EuroNCAP.

Wolfsburg / Barcelona, 14 October 2010 – With over 15 million cars sold, the Passat by Volkswagen is one of the most successful automobiles in the world. Now there is a new Passat. It is the seventh generation since 1973. The styling of the bestseller was completely re-interpreted, and its front end shows parallels to the Phaeton and is more impressive than ever. Furthermore, the Passat has always mirrored the course of technological progress. And this applies unreservedly to the seventh Passat, which will launch simultaneously as a saloon and estate car. The overall range of technological innovatio¬ns now implemented in the Passat Trendline (entry-level), Passat Comfortline (mid-level) and Passat Highline (top model) has reached a scale previously found only in upper and luxury class cars.

More innovation: A world’s first in this class is the fatigue detection system that is offered on the Passat. The system is a standard feature from the Comfortline equipment line. The Passat is also the first Volkswagen ever to have a city emergency braking function. The assistance system is part of the further refined ACC adaptive cruise control plus Front Assist. The city emergency braking function, active below a speed of 30 km/h, also reacts to stationary vehicles; if necessary, it automatically initiates a braking manoeuvre, thereby contributing toward avoidance of an impending front end collision or at least minimising the resulting damage.
More comfort: Yet, the new Passat offers even more finesses. All it takes is a specific foot movement behind the car to open the saloon’s boot lid (Easy Open). At the press of a button, the Passat “sees” parking spaces parallel and perpendicular to the carriageway, and upon request it can automatically steer the car into the space with centimetre precision (Park Assist II).

Seeing more: The driver does not need to be concerned about controlling the main beam light switch any longer; it is always there as long as traffic allows. The reason: In conjunction with the standard H7 headlights, the Passat automatically switches the main beam on and off as a function of oncoming traffic and traffic ahead of the Passat. This optional main beam assistant is called Light Assist. If the car is equipped with bi-xenon headlights that come with cornering lights, the main beam remains continually active and is only masked where other traffic participants could be disturbed by glare; this main beam headlight assistant is called Dynamic Light Assist. Both systems become active as soon as vehicle speed exceeds 60 km/h. As on the Phaeton and Touareg, the Passat also warns the driver of vehicles in the blind spot (Side Assist). The new Volkswagen utilises images from a front camera to detect speed limit signs, and it displays them in the cockpit. This traffic sign detection system also “sees” no-passing zones when technically possible, and it calls the driver’s attention to them.

More quality: The technologies and the further improved workmanship and material quality is differentiating the Passat from its competitors more than ever. This quality is perceptible in the interior with its high-end materials, new seats and door trims and ambience lighting. An especially elegant effect is produced by the modified centre console and redesigned accents in the instruments that are visually appealing and pleasing to the touch.

More quiet: The new Passat is extremely quiet. The reason: Insulating materials specifically integrated in the dashboard area and doors filter out exterior and engine noises. In addition, a new acoustic film is embedded in the front windscreen and is available as an option for the front side windows; this film blocks out additional noise.

More safety: Progress has been made in the area of safety as well. The previous model already attained an impressive 5 stars in Euro-NCAP crash testing. Further advances include features such as seatbelt fastening detection for the rear seats and head restraints that now also adjust horizontally on the front seats (standard from Comfortline). The new head restraints for driver and front passenger reduce the risk of whiplash injury in a traffic accident. Moreover, new assistance systems such as Side Assist optimize safety in the Passat.

More sustainable: Last but not least, the new Passat sets standards when it comes to sustainability. All ten engines (77 kW / 105 PS to 220 kW / 300 PS) are more fuel efficient – by up to 18 percent! The “smallest” turbodiesel (1.6 TDI with 105 PS) now only consumes 4.2 l/100 km; that is equivalent to 109 g/km CO2. The Passat BlueTDI (103 kW / 140 PS / fuel consumption: 4.6 l/100 km) already meets limits of the Euro-6 emissions standard (Category N). Downsizing and technologies such as the Stop/Start system also ensure the best fuel economy among the petrol engines. Another pioneering engine: the 1.4 TSI (90 kW / 122 PS). In the BlueMotion Technology version it is satisfied with just 5.9 l/100 km. All values for the Passat Estate lie on the same good level (maximum of +0.1 litre compared to the saloon). It is worth noting that each of these models is a safe, comfortable and powerful touring vehicle. Only, they are also very low emitting, fuel efficient and blessed with extremely long driving ranges. In the case of the Passat 1.6 TDI with BlueMotion Technology, its 70 litre fuel tank capacity and 4.2 litre fuel consumption yield a driving range of 1,666 kilometres – on one tank of fuel. So, it is good that there is fatigue detection to remind the driver to take a break from driving after at most four hours.

Facts Overview

Key Aspects in Alphabetical Order

Assistance and driving dynamics systems: DCC adaptive chassis control, ACC adaptive cruise control, Easy Open, Front Assist with city emergency braking function, Dynamic Light Assist, Keyless Access, Lane Assist, Light Assist, fatigue detection, Park Assist, Park Pilot with visual display, Rear Assist rearview camera, Side Assist, traffic sign detection

Automatic gearbox: 6-speed DSG, 7-speed DSG

Cargo capacity, Estate: 603 litres to 1,731 litres

Cargo capacity, saloon: 565 litres

Character: Long-distance touring car for business and private use

Colours: Uni (standard): “Candy White,” “Uran Grey.” Uni (optional): “Tornado Red.” Metallic (optional): “Cashmere Brown,” “Night Blue,” “Reflex Silver.” Pearl effect (optional): “Deep Black,” “Iceland Grey,” “Mocca Anthracite.” Standard colours for Passat BlueMotion, 77 kW: “Glacier Blue,” “Iron Grey”

Design: Walter de Silva (Group), Klaus Bischoff (Brand)

Dimensions, Estate: 4,771 mm length, 2,062 mm width (including mirror), 1,481 mm height, 2,712 mm wheelbase

Dimensions, Saloon: 4,769 mm length, 2,062 mm width (including mirrors), 1,472 mm height, 2,712 mm wheelbase

Drive type: Standard front-wheel drive, optional all-wheel drive (4MOTION)

Engines – diesel: Launching with 77 kW / 105 PS (TDI), 103 kW / 140 PS (TDI), 125 kW / 170 PS (TDI)

Engines – petrol / natural gas (EcoFuel): Launching with 90 kW / 122 PS (TSI), 110 kW / 150 PS (TSI EcoFuel), 118 kW / 160 PS (TSI), 155 kW / 211 PS (TSI)

Equipment lines: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline

Fuel economy range: 4.2 l/100 km to 9.3 l/100 km

Infotainment: Radio-CD systems: RCD 210, RCD 310, RCD 510. Radio-navigation systems: RNS 315 and RNS 510 (optional TV module). Peripherals: MEDIA-IN port, AUX-IN port, Dynaudio sound system (600 Watt), Volkswagen Sound system (300 Watt), hands-free telephone

Market launch, Europe: End of November 2010

Market launch, Germany: Mid-November 2010

Passats produced to date: over 15 million

Production sites: Emden and Zwickau, Germany

Running gear: MacPherson-type suspension in front, four-link suspension in rear, standard ESP. Optional DCC adaptive chassis control, sport chassis, ride levelling for Estate

Standard features (Trendline): include ESP, 6 airbags, air conditioning, electromechanical power-assisted steering, electric windows, multifunctional display, central locking, height-adjustable driver’s seat, RCD 210 audio system

Standard gearbox: 6-speed manual

Notes:
TDI, TSI, DSG and Twincharger are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG or other companies of the Volkswagen Group in Germany and other countries.
Features and technical data apply to models offered in Germany. They may differ in other countries.
All fuel economy and emissions values in this press release are forecast values as of September 2010.