CAR REPORT

2011 Citroen C-Zero

2011-12-23T03:31:00.000-08:00

Zero fuel consumption, zero CO2 emissions and zero noise: with the C-Zero, Citroën is broadening its compact vehicle range with a 100% electric solution. The new city car was designed to make urban mobility easier, with its compact dimensions, rapid charge, and sufficient range for day-to-day car journeys. And all this in a silence that makes occupants forget about the noise of the city. The Citroën C-Zero is a real concentrate of technology and creativity that meets tomorrow's challenges today!
Having already produced more than 5,500 electric vehicles, Citroën has the experience vital to being a frontrunner in a market segment that is set to grow significantly in the coming years.
Set for launch in last-quarter 2010, the Citroën C-Zero, developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, is the brand's second electric vehicle alongside Berlingo First Electric, developed with Venturi. In France, both these models qualify for the government bonus of 5,000 euros.

AN OFFERING CONSISTENT WITH CITROËN POLICY
Long committed to a policy of reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, Citroën, a leading environmental carmaker, is adding the Citroën C-Zero to a range that already features a wealth of environmentally-respectful products.
Current Citroën achievements:

C3 and DS3 models emitting 99 g/km of CO2 will be available from launch
More than 30% of Citroën vehicles sold emit less than 120 g/km of CO2

Upcoming technologies:

Widespread application of second-generation Stop & Start system in 2010
Launch of a full-hybrid vehicle, the DS5, in 2011
100% ELECTRIC VEHICLE

The Citroën C-Zero is a full-electric vehicle powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 47 kW or 64 bhp EEC from 3,000 to 6,000 rpm. Maximum torque of 180 Nm is available from 2,000 rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear axle via a single-speed reduction gear.
The motor is powered by a latest-generation 330-volt lithium-ion battery system comprising 88 50-Ah cells (for onboard energy of 16 kWh) mounted in the centre of the vehicle.
Lithium-ion technology keeps battery weight down compared with conventional technology while offering equivalent performance. It is also resistant to partial charges, which have no incidence on battery longevity.

EASY TO CHARGE, EASY TO USE
Recharging the Citroën C-Zero's batteries is child's play. Owners simply plug the supply cord into a 220-volt socket. A complete charge lasts six hours, while an 80% charge is possible in just 30 minutes using an external station with a single-phase current of 125 A at 400 V, for power of up to 50 kWh.
Using the car is equally simple. When the driver turns the ignition key a beep confirms that the car is running. Citroën C-Zero drives like a regular car with an automatic gearbox.
The traditional fuel gauge is replaced by a battery charge indicator.

PERFORMANCE AND FEATURES FOR PRESENT-DAY NEEDS
Driving today is characterised, in the week, by short journeys of less than 40 km on average, with a full 70% of trips under 30 km.
The Citroën C-Zero is perfectly adapted to the needs of all kinds of companies - including government, local authorities and company fleets - and also to those of private customers looking for a vehicle with exceptionally low running costs. With four real seats (thanks to a 2.55-m wheelbase) and a 166-litre boot, the Citroën C-Zero is impressively quiet to drive and boasts a plethora of comfort and safety equipment. Original-fit features include power steering, ABS, TCS, ESP, power windows, six airbags, air conditioning and an autonomous telematics box for the emergency call system.

A CITY CAR AT EASE ON THE OPEN ROAD
The Citroën C-Zero's compact exterior dimensions, at 3.48 m long, and 9-m turning circle make it a cinch to nip in and out of city traffic. And with a top speed of 130 kph and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 15 seconds and 60-90 km/h in six seconds, along with a range of around 130 km over a standard combined cycle, it is also fully at ease out on the open road. In France, 70% of daily car trips made in the week are under 30 km, for an overall average of 40 km.

2011 Citroen C4

2011-12-23T03:13:00.000-08:00

With attractive, sculpted lines; impressive build quality; and an array of original upmarket features and functions, the new Citroën C4 is a perfect balance of confidence-inspiring styling and useful, convenient technologies.
Specifically designed to meet the needs of mid-size 5-door hatchback retail customers and business users, new C4 is robust and versatile; driver-focused, yet impressively comfortable; and is charged with a real 'Positive Power' - thanks to efficient Citroën engineering and an environmentally considerate range of powertrains.
Like the new Citroën C5 in 2008, and the new Citroën C3 in 2009, new Citroën C4 is further evidence of Citroën's know-how and creativity in designing efficient, stylish, innovative and safe vehicles with 'real world' practicality.

New Citroën C4's distinctive profile and balanced proportions give a clear impression of strength and stability. Defined and flowing surfaces, such as the purposeful front end and rear spoiler, hint at the model's optimised aerodynamics. Chrome detailing combines with dynamic headlight styling and sculpted alloy wheels for a sophisticated and impressive road presence.
Fractionally larger than its forerunner, new Citroën C4's compact external dimensions - 4.33m (l), 1.79m (w), 1.49m (h) - conceal generous internal volumes with spacious accommodation for all occupants; built-in versatility and practicality; and a class-leading boot volume of up to 408-litres VDA.
The high quality of new Citroën C4's interior finish is immediately apparent from the tactile soft-touch material on the top of the one-piece dashboard and the generous amounts of chrome around the dials and vents. This is a car created to deliver a supremely satisfying on-board experience as well as long-term durability.

Promising precise control and an accomplished drive, new Citroën C4's driver-focused cockpit immediately delivers a feeling of on-road comfort and confidence. Personal comfort can be tailored to individual requirements, with users able to adjust the colour of the instrument display, select their own 'polyphonic' sound alerts and even set the intensity of the automatic air conditioning to one of three different settings. For optimum levels of comfort, new Citroën C4 can be specified with massaging front seats - the first time this has been offered in this sector of the market.
New Citroën C4 is intelligently designed with a range of new convenient technologies, a number of which are unique to the segment. There is a new blind-spot monitoring system, a cornering light function, cruise control and speed-limiter with favourite speed settings and Citroën's innovative eTouch Emergency & Assistance System.
Selected models feature a new raised centre console - another first for the class - which houses a cooled and illuminated storage area that can take four 0.5-litre bottles. Other available equipment includes a Connecting Box that provides Bluetooth® and a USB socket; front and rear parking sensors; parking space 'gap' measurement; Xenon dual-function directional headlamps and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

Impressive acoustic comfort and the levels of soundproofing in the car - filtering out external road noise and vibrations - have been benchmarked to the segment above.
Users can even immerse themselves in a rich, authentic audio experience with the standard specification Surround Sound audio system. Alternatively, there is the option of a premium Denon HiFi, which is new to the Citroën range.
An environmentally respectful car, the new C4 uses the latest Citroën technology to reduce its ecological impact. With CO2 emissions from just 109g/km, the new Citroën C4 is one of the most ecologically-conscious models in the segment and all diesel models qualify for free VED in the first year.
A Gear Efficiency Indicator - standard specification on all manual models - signals the optimum moment to change gear and encourages economical driving. A focus on controlling new Citroën C4's overall weight and the use of 15% 'green' materials add to the new Citroën C4's environmental credentials.

New C4 is powered by an extensive range of refined and efficient powerplants - three BMW co-developed petrol engines and four efficient HDi diesel units. Power output ranges from a refined 90hp to a punchy 155hp. Automatic, 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual and 6-speed EGS transmissions are all available.
Citroën's innovative micro-hybrid e-HDi drivetrain is available with the HDi 110 engine and EGS transmission, which delivers CO2 emissions as low as 109g/km - reducing to 99g/km on future models. A combination of several environmentally considerate technologies - including a second generation Stop & Start system with regenerative braking - e-HDi helps to improve fuel efficiency by up to 15% in city driving conditions, with CO2 emissions reduced by around 5g/km.
One of the safest vehicles in its class, new Citroën C4 has been awarded the maximum 5-star Euro NCAP rating, including a 97% score in the 'Safety Assist' category - the highest score for any vehicle of its type.
Arriving in the UK in January 2011, the new Citroën C4 will be offered in three well-specified trims - VTR, VTR+ and Exclusive - and is attractively priced, starting at £15,595, rising to £21,495 for the range-topping 2.0HDi 150hp Exclusive. Prices are inclusive of VAT at 20%.

EXTERIOR STYLING
The new Citroën C4's styling is striking and purposeful, elegant and assertive. The chiselled profile bristles with premium detailing, giving a clear impression of strength and stability. The sculpted lines and black rear spoiler reflect the model's optimised aerodynamics whilst the upper side panel and roof have been laser-welded to remove assembly joints, creating an unusually sleek and smooth roofline. Glossy black B-pillars, a blackout treatment on the rear side windows and stylish chrome detailing complete the premium look.
The distinctive front end features a sculpted bonnet that curves out towards the sides with incisive headlights that flow into the side wings and the imposing new twin chevron grille. The sweeping side profile showcases two intersecting style lines and steeply raked quarter windows to underline the dynamic looks. At the rear, the new style chevrons and an original lighting signature highlight the clean lines of the tailgate and emphasise the model's prestigious design.
The new C4 is offered in a choice of ten body colours, carefully selected to complement the model's form, with a range of sculpted and stylish alloy wheels sized between 16" and 18".

INTERIOR QUALITY
Quality and sophistication are evident throughout the new Citroën C4's cabin, with full attention paid to the flush assembly and feel of the materials used. The dashboard and fascia have been designed to contain as few component parts as possible and are finished in soft-touch materials with chrome detailing on the controls and vents.
The new C4's four-spoke steering wheel feels substantial, with soft-touch leather, satin chrome inserts and an impressive array of functionalities - including audio, telephone, speed-limiter/cruise control - all positioned at the driver's fingertips.
The gear selector on EGS gearbox versions - positioned neatly on the centre console - is small, tactile and trimmed in leather. Its size and shape means it fits snugly in the driver's palm.
All elements of lighting in the cabin have been finely tuned to each other creating a sophisticated and modern environment. Front and rear LED reading and courtesy lights - standard on Exclusive models - cast a clear white light, whilst mood lighting bathes the footwell and centre console in a soothing hue.
Creating a bright and airy cabin environment - and providing an expansive field of vision - new Citroën C4 boasts a large windscreen and is available with a vast 1.3m2 panoramic sunroof.

SPACE, PRACTICALITY & VERSATILITY
At 4.33m long, 1.79m wide and 1.49m high, new Citroën C4 is fractionally larger than its forerunner. Despite the model's compact external dimensions, there are generous internal volumes with extensive space and storage for all occupants, including the biggest boot in its class.
The raised dashboard architecture increases legroom for the front passenger and each front door storage compartment can accommodate a 1.5-litre bottle and miscellaneous A4-size documents.
The model's centre consoles come in four variants depending on the trim level and transmission - low, semi-raised, raised with manual gearbox and raised with EGS gearbox. All offer generous storage for drinks, mobile phones, MP3 players and other items. When combined with the EGS transmission, the raised centre console offers a large refrigerated and illuminated compartment that can be closed with a sliding shutter. Able to hold up to four 0.5-litre bottles, this feature is a first for the class.
Rear occupants also benefit from extensive space and storage with generous amounts of leg and headroom, which allows up to three adults to sit comfortably during longer journeys. Each rear door incorporates a storage compartment large enough for a 0.5-litre bottle and a paperback sized book. Most models feature front seat back pockets for additional storage and handy drawers positioned under the front seats.
With a capacious 380-litre boot - increasing to a maximum 408-litre VDA capacity (under the parcel shelf and utilising the under-floor storage compartment) - the new C4 offers the biggest boot in its class. The practical cubic dimensions and low, slim sill ensure ease of loading and optimal use of the available volume. When required, the split/folding rear seats can easily be tumbled forward to create additional load space up to the front seat backs.

COMFORT & CONVENIENT TECHNOLOGY
The new Citroën C4 is designed for business-class travel with intuitive, intelligent technology enabling owners to tailor the new C4's environment and ambience to their own preferences. For example, the intensity of the automatic dual-zone air conditioning can be set to Light, Medium or Strong, and a REST function maintains ventilation in the cabin for up to eight minutes after the engine is switched off.
With full or part-leather upholstery, the front seats on Exclusive models feature electric lumbar adjustment for maximum support and a massage function for a touch of luxury - another new feature for the segment.
The cockpit is driver-focused, with an ergonomically optimised driving position placing the instrument cluster and controls within easy sight and reach. Fusing analogue with digital display technologies, the new instruments features three striking binnacles that provide exceptional legibility of all essential driver information whilst covering the cabin in a soft blue or white glow. An aviation-inspired touch of technology, the analogue speedometer circles around the central binnacle instead of sitting at its centre. The colour of the binnacle display can be changed from blue to white to suit the driver's preference.
Acoustic treatment was a priority in the development of new Citroën C4 and the levels of soundproofing have been engineered to match those of larger executive saloons. The meticulous sonic treatment includes an acoustic laminated windscreen on most models; peripheral sealing barriers on the body and doors; and sound absorbent materials in the engine compartment. Vibration, engine noise, aerodynamic noise and road noise have all been minimised to create a calm and peaceful cabin environment.
Complementing this quiet, refined ambience, new C4's 'polyphonic' sound alerts are available with four different themes (Classic, Crystal Symphony, Jungle Fantasy & Urban Rythmik) for the indicator signals or the unfastened seatbelt warning.
Essential for a satisfying on-board experience, the new C4 is fitted with a Surround Sound audio system as standard. Alternatively, Citroën has partnered with Denon to create an optional premium HiFi system that includes four specially developed woofers, four tweeters, a digital amplifier and a sub-woofer in the boot.
As with all of the latest Citroën models, new Citroën C4 offers all the connectivity to satisfy the modern driver. A USB port, 3.5mm jack plug and 12V socket are available on the centre console for connecting, listening to and charging a range of electronic devices. Most models also feature an additional 12V port and removable torch in the boot.
The new C4 can be equipped with eMyWay - Citroën's integrated new-generation navigation system. Features include a high-resolution colour display; GPS satellite navigation; internal memory; USB connectivity for MP3 players; speed limit display; and Bluetooth® for hands free calls and audio streaming from mobile phones.
The availability of front and rear parking sensors, parking space 'gap' measurement, electric folding and heated door mirrors, an automatic electric parking brake and Hill Start Assist also make the new Citroën C4 easy to live with in built-up environments.
Available as an accessory, Citroën's WiFi On Board system uses a 3G/3G+ SIM card to create a wireless network in the car with continuous internet connection.
POWER & DYNAMICS
On the road, the new Citroën C4 combines the highest standards of ride smoothness and responsive handling for an enjoyable driving experience. The suspension settings are tailored to the power and torque of the different engines, which contributes to new C4's class-leading levels of on-board comfort.
With MacPherson-type front suspension, rear suspension with a flexible transverse beam and speed sensitive hydraulic steering with an electric pump, the running gear's proven features are a perfect fit with the vehicle's characteristics. The Citroën C4 also delivers excellent roll control and exhibits sharp reactions, notably in emergency manoeuvres.
The new Citroën C4 is offered with a range of BMW co-developed petrol engines, highly efficient HDi diesel engines and gearboxes that help maximise fuel economy.
New C4 offers:

Four diesel engines - HDi 90, HDi 110, e-HDi 110 & HDi 150.
Three petrol engines - VTi 95, VTi 120 & THP 155.
The THP 155 & e-HDi 110 are both mated to a 6-speed EGS gearbox.
The HDi 110 & HDi 150 are mated to a 6-speed manual 'box.
The VTi 120 is available with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
The VTi 95 & HDi 90 both come with a 5-speed manual 'box.

All engines are Euro 5 compliant, all diesel engines are equipped with a particulate filter (DPFS) and all manual models are fitted with a Gear Efficiency Indicator (GEI). The 6-speed EGS transmission has an 'Auto' setting and delivers lower fuel consumption than an equivalent manual transmission.
e-HDi
New Citroën C4 VTR+ and Exclusive models are available with Citroën's innovative new micro-hybrid e-HDi system with EGS transmission, which delivers up to 67.3mpg over a combined cycle and just 109g/km of CO2.
The e-HDi powertrain consists of a refined and efficient 1.6HDi 110 diesel engine fitted with a Stop & Start system featuring a second generation reversible alternator. An e-booster system allows instantaneous and whisper silent engine restarts in just 400ms - twice as fast as a manual key restart and 30% faster than with a reinforced starter. The electronically controlled alternator uses regenerative braking to recover energy and the EGS gearbox features optimised gear ratios. The system even stops the engine before the car comes to a complete halt - from 5mph during deceleration. The e-HDi system can improve fuel efficiency by up to 15% in urban environments and reduces CO2 emissions by around 5g/km.
Models with 16" wheels, including the e-HDi VTR+, feature low rolling resistance Michelin Energy™ Saver tyres, which help to reduce fuel consumption and reduce CO2 emissions by up to 5g/km compared with standard tyres.
EFFICIENT ENGINEERING
Citroën has utilised the latest industrial technologies, along with a 'part by part' focus on reducing the weight and number of components in new C4. For example, the laser welding on the roof and doors saves 2kg and new C4's steering wheel saves 3kg compared to the 'fixed' hub steering wheel on the previous model. Controlling new Citroën C4's overall weight has helped to deliver safer and more responsive handling whilst reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
New Citroën C4 also demonstrates Citroën's expertise in engineering efficiency with every effort made to minimise the model's carbon footprint in the production process. A record for the PSA Peugeot Citroën Group, 15% of new C4's polymer components are made using 'green' materials such as re-cycled plastics, natural materials (e.g. cellulose fibre) and other bio-materials from non-fossil, renewable sources. In all, thirty individual parts, including the rear bumper, door panels, carpets and wheel arch liners use these 'green' materials. New C4 is also 85% recyclable.
SAFETY
New Citroën C4 achieves the highest standards of safety and has already been awarded the maximum 5-star rating by independent assessors Euro NCAP, including a score of 97% in the 'Safety Assist' category - the highest score achieved for any vehicle of its type.
With a range of driving aids fitted as standard, new Citroën C4 offers users exceptional on-road control. Standard specification safety-enhancing technology includes ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), EBA (Emergency Braking Assistance) and ESP (Electronic Stability Programme). Citroën's Intelligent Traction Control is also specified as standard equipment on most models.
Occupants are cocooned in a safe and secure environment, with protection from an energy-dissipating, reinforced body structure and six airbags across the range (driver, front passenger, front lateral and curtain). Remote central locking with deadlocks and Isofix anchorage points are fitted as standard, and an anti-theft alarm is also available.
New Citroën C4 is available with a range of new and innovative features designed to improve the safety of both occupants and other road users. A blind-spot monitoring system - unique in this segment of the market - uses ultrasound technology to detect vehicles in the car's blind-spots and alerts the driver with an illuminated pictogram in the door mirrors. Using four sensors located in the front and rear bumpers, the system - active from 8mph - monitors the area from the front door mirror to 5m behind the rear bumper and 3.5m (i.e. the width of a road lane) on either side of the vehicle.
All new C4 models are fitted as standard with cruise control and speed limiter. From the VTR+ trim level, the speed limiter and cruise control adds a favourite speed settings function, which provides extra driving convenience with a focus on safety. The user can programme up to five speed settings and easily switch between them when speed limits change on the road.
Standard from the VTR+ trim level, a cornering light function activates the fog lights when the indicators are on or when the steering wheel is at an angle of 60° - illuminating an area of up to 75° either side of the vehicle. The function improves visibility and enables drivers to spot potential obstacles earlier. Daytime-running halogen headlamps are also standard across the range.
An optional Vision Pack, available on Exclusive models, includes Xenon dual-function directional headlamps that cast their beam in the direction of travel, which further increases visibility and safety. This option also includes the new blind-spot monitoring system and tyre pressure monitoring.
New C4 owners can also benefit from Citroën's new eTouch Emergency & Assistance System, which automatically or manually makes geo-localised emergency or assistance calls using a built-in SIM card - for rapid intervention in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised. The system also enables drivers to monitor their driving patterns and fuel consumption, and to receive advice on how to improve their fuel economy. Similarly, drivers can consult their vehicle's technical status and monitor any necessary maintenance or servicing requirements online at their 'MYCITROËN' personal space. These services are free and available 24-7.
The Citroën eTouch Emergency & Assistance System was awarded the prestigious Euro NCAP 'Advanced' Reward accolade at the 2010 Paris Motor Show.
TRIMS
The new Citroën C4 is available in three trim levels - VTR, VTR+ and Exclusive.
The entry-level VTR comes generously equipped, including six airbags, ESP, Hill Start Assist, manual air conditioning, electric front windows, a six-speaker Surround Sound audio system and cruise control with speed limiter.
At the heart of the range the VTR+ is a perfect balance of equipment and style, adding key equipment such as alloy wheels, leather steering wheel, customisable colour instrument binnacles, front fog lights with cornering function, rear parking sensors and a Connecting Box - Bluetooth® hands free and USB socket. The semi-raised centre console with sliding armrest is also fitted from this trim level (raised centre console on the e-HDi model).
For a luxury driving experience, the Exclusive adds 17" alloys, part-leather upholstery, digital air conditioning, automatically illuminating headlamps, automatic windscreen wipers, front parking sensors with parking space 'gap' measurement and the eTouch Emergency & Assistance System. Owners also gain electric lumbar adjustment with massage function on both front seats and benefit from the raised centre console with automatic electric parking brake.

2011 Citroen C5

2011-12-23T02:41:00.000-08:00

Recognised as one of the best-styled models in its segment, the Citroen C5 has been subtly upgraded. The changes enable the car to keep all its character while making it immediately visible and recognisable out on the road.
LEDs have been added under the headlamps. Active day and night and combined with a light guide, they subtly strengthen the car's light signature. The headlamps retain all the existing functions, including xenon dual-function directional lights and corner lights.
The rear lights get a new "Dark Crystal" treatment with clear glass in the central section.

e-HDi MICRO-HYBRID TECHNOLOGY FOR SPECTACULAR RESULTS
The Citroen C5 inaugurates the new micro-hybrid technology that will be widely applied to numerous models in the range. Initially it will be available with the HDi 110 DPFS version equipped with the EGS6 electronic gearbox system with steering-wheel paddles and low rolling resistance tyres.
The micro-hybrid technology consists of a second-generation Stop & Start system, which retains an alternator-starter, or reversible alternator, boasting enhanced performance. Power has been increased on the first-generation system, by 70% to 2.2 kW, and now includes a power electronics unit. Fitting the system on a diesel engine constitutes a world first for a passenger car.
Start-ups take just 400 ms, half the time of a starter, and remain completely transparent for users. Noise is eliminated through the use of a timing belt rather than the gears of a conventional starter. Vibrations have been eliminated - at start-up and cut-out - by using a twin-mass engine flywheel and a sealed air regulator and by attaining slowdown speed faster.

An onboard network assistance system, called e-booster, boosts the electricity supply of the alternator using super-output, temporarily adding to the power of the battery. This set-up has several advantages, namely:

an increase in transmitted energy, improving start-up capacity for temperatures of as low as -5°C;
onboard network support via complete transparency on the energy required by the alternator, to maintain the performance of the lights, windscreen wipers and radio;
a function that optimises battery charge and super-output through energy recovery when drivers take their foot off the pedal or slow down, with a slight increase in the engine brake.

The Citroen C5 e-HDi is also equipped with an optimised watertight battery sized for up to 600,000 restart cycles. Engine suspension has been enhanced on the Citroen C5 for increased comfort during stops and re-starts.
The new equipment considerably reduces the Citroen C5's fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Over a combined cycle, the diesel model consumes 4.6 l/100 km and emits 120 g/km of CO2. In an urban cycle, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are up to 15% lower.

Citroen C5 HDi 200 DPFS, A BLEND OF POWER AND ECONOMY
A new engine is making its appearance in the Citroen C5 range, a new-generation 2.2 litre powerplant bringing across-the-board progress on power, torque, silence, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Upgrades made to this engine are in line with those already used on other diesel units in the range (4- cylinder, 1.6 l and 2 l, 3 l V6). They chiefly concern the common rail system, now third-generation, with maximum injection pressure up to 2,000 bars, combustion chambers retaining ECCS (Extreme Conventional Combustion System) technology, and a lower compression ratio (16 to 1), for enhanced operating silence and lower emissions. Engine feed is still via two turbochargers, whose parallel sequential set-up provides plentiful torque from the lowest engine speeds.
The Citroen C5 HDi 200 DPFS develops 150 kW EEC (204 bhp) at 3,500 rpm and maximum torque of 450 Nm to 2,000 rpm. Mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox, the engine provides remarkable performance, with a top speed of 230 km/h (225 km/h for the Tourer), 0-100 km/h in 8.3 seconds (8.6) and combined-cycle consumption of 5.9 l/100 km (6.1). The saloon emits 155 g/km of CO2 and the Tourer 159 g/km. Like the Citroen C5 HDi 240 DPFS, the new version stands out visually with its chrome-finished double tailpipe.
Citroen C5 VTi 120 WITH EGS6, THE NEW PETROL POWERPLANT The Citroen C5 range is now available with a new petrol engine mated to the 6-speed electronic gearbox system (EGS6). Developed with the BMW Group, the 1.6 litre powerplant develops 88 kW EEC (120 bhp). Mated to the EGS6 gearbox, with wheel-mounted paddles, combined-cycle fuel consumption is 6.2 l/100 km and CO2 emissions are 144 g/km.

Citroen eTouch AVAILABLE ON C5
Citroen eTouch is now available on the C5. Comprising a package of services including the emergency and assistance calls, Citroen eTouch also proposes a virtual maintenance manual and an Eco-Driving service accessible via the MyCitroen personal area on the web. For calls, Citroen eTouch works completely independently. The system is equipped with a GPS module and a SIM card, with no need for a call plan and unlimited over time. The vehicles features two buttons, "SOS" for emergency calls (the call is also triggered automatically in the event of impact) and "Double Chevron" for assistance calls. The emergency call gets emergency services to customers faster, for accident victims and bystanders alike. The two services are free and available 24-7.

2011 Citroen DS3

2011-12-23T02:27:00.000-08:00

Citroën has announced the new Citroën DS3 will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2009. The Citroën DS3 will be the first model from Citroën's brand new DS line, a product range consisting of three distinctively styled, attention-grabbing models that highlight the very best of Citroën's 'créative technologie.'
With razor sharp styling and a visually-arresting design, Citroën DS3 is a radical take on the compact urban vehicle and a contemporary breath of fresh air for the class.
Designed to meet the requirements of even the most demanding connoisseur, Citroën DS3 offers an extensive array of style, personalisation and quality materials for a bespoke and refined driving experience, whilst at the same time embodying the very latest Citroën technology including fuel-efficient, environmentally-considerate engines.

STUDIO STYLING
Citroën's creative talent for innovative vehicle design manifests itself on every feature of the Citroën DS3.
From all angles, the car's undeniable on-road presence and refreshing style is evident with stand-out elements such as the colour-contrasted 'floating roof', 'shark fin' B-pillar and sleek design of the front LED lights - a desirable feature usually seen on premium models.
Inside, the atmosphere in the cabin is one of class and contemporary elegance with an exceptional attention to detail and an extensive use of luxury materials such as leather and chrome. The upper part of the flowing dashboard echoes the floating roof. Thermo-coated components are used throughout - an organic, soft grain material, which contrasts perfectly with the smooth, lacquered effect of the strip runs the full width of the dash from driver to passenger side.

"MY DS3!"
Offering freedom of expression, the innovative Citroën DS3 provides extensive levels of personalisation - both inside and out.
In addition to a range of body shades, the Citroën DS3's distinctive 'floating' roof is available in a choice of four colours - Black, White, Blue and Red - to contrast with the main body of the car. The wing mirrors and rubbing strips can also be personalised in colours or smart chrome finish and the wheels and wheel centres are available in a wide spectrum of colours.
Inside, Citroën DS3 can offer further personalisation with the dashboard strip - which encompasses the air vents, instrument cluster, multi-function screens and even a scented air-fresher - in a choice of six finishes.
The modern seat upholstery design is available in a variety of coloured fabrics and leather; even the gear knob can be tailored in five different trims, combining satin-finish chrome with an array of colours and leather. The smart chrome touches which adorn the Citroën DS3's cabin will also be available in a satin-textured finish. You can even carry a bit of your Citroën DS3 with you thanks to each distinctly styled Citroën DS3 key fob featuring a disc coloured to match your choice of body paint.

ENERGY AND ELEGANCE
Proving that environmentally-considerate motoring doesn't mean having to compromise on style or performance, the Citroën DS3 will be available with a choice of five CO2-efficient Euro V power plants consisting of two HDi diesel units and three BMW co-developed petrol engines, combining refined performance with strong fuel economy.
The two HDi diesels - a 90bhp and an 110bhp - are fitted with Citroën's lauded DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System) and the three petrol engines - VTi 95, VTi 120 and THP 150 - are fitted with either 5 or 6 speed manual gearboxes.
Fully in line with Citroën's commitment to producing cleaner, more environmentally considerate vehicles, the two HDi DPFS engines will deliver ultra low CO2 emissions of just 99g/km and 115/g km, whilst the petrol units will emit between 136/km and 160g/km.

LOST IN SPACE
Both enjoyable and easy to live with, the Citroën DS3 combines high-end style with practical versatility, creating an exceptionally spacious cabin out of its compact external dimensions - a Citroën speciality.
One of the smallest vehicles in its class - 3.95m long, 1.71m wide and 1.46m high - the Citroën DS3's interior belies its neat frame, setting a new class standard for spaciousness. The result of extensive work on the architecture of the car's interior design, occupants can enjoy levels of roominess normally associated with models in the segment above.
A 'raised' dashboard design creates increased amounts of front leg room whilst the slender front seats and intelligent rear design increases space for rear occupants with all passengers able to enjoy five full-sized seats and ample arm, leg and headroom.
The Citroën DS3 also boasts the largest boot in its class at 285-litres, and for additional load capacity the 60:40 split-fold rear bench can be tumbled forward in a single, effortless movement.

FUN AT THE WHEEL
A cockpit-inspired driving position puts the driver firmly in control with a sports-styled instrument cluster featuring three conical dials, small-diameter wheel and low-slung, body-hugging seats. Citroën DS3 delivers a nimble driving experience with a turning circle of around 10.3m also making it a surefooted companion for manoeuvring around cramped urban environments.
Building upon Citroën's extensive experience in producing smooth running-gear, Citroën DS3 delivers impressive ride comfort together with responsive road-handling and dynamic poise. Drivers also benefit from excellent body roll control, responsive and confident cornering thus providing a secure and fulfilling drive.

I.C.E. COOL
Citroën DS3 is available with Citroën's latest in-car technology such as the integrated MyWay satellite navigation unit which incorporates a sophisticated audio and multimedia system, wide format colour screen, MP3 and WMA compatible CD player and Bluetooth® hands free kit. Providing exceptional acoustic clarity, the audio system benefits from a third speaker in the middle of the upper dashboard as well as an amplified subwoofer mounted in the boot for a broader frequency response and immersive audio experience.
A convenient range of driving aids will also be available including cruise control with speed limiter, and an intelligent indicator which recommends the optimal moment for gear changes allowing drivers to improve their fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.

PLAY IT SAFE
The Citroën DS3 is designed with an emphasis on robustness, strength and optimum safety to ensure protection for all occupants. For reassuring control in any driving situation Citroën DS3 models will feature as standard ESP, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and EBA (Emergency Brake Assist) as well as six airbags and Isofix anchor points on the rear side seats.

2011 Citroen DS3 R3

2011-12-23T02:08:00.000-08:00

In addition to Citroën Racing's official participation in WRC, where it has won five FIA World Championship Constructors' titles, Citroën Racing has always offered products designed for customers. The champion team has now furthered this rich tradition with Citroën DS3 R3, a model set to make its rallying debut at the end of 2010. Versatile, high performance and yet affordably-priced, Citroën DS3 R3 is set to become the new leader in its category.
Based on the FIA's new Group R3T regulations, Citroën DS3 R3 features the same structural design and appearance as the production model, with the production steel body shell reinforced by a welded, multi-point roll cage, improving the resilience of the chassis and safety for the driver pairing.
Under the bonnet lies a four-cylinder 1.6-litre THP (high pressure turbo) engine, which has been developed using the PSA production engine. Specific racing parts (air box, camshaft, pistons, connecting rods, exhaust and turbo systems, electronic unit, etc.) have been deployed to boost the car's power to 210bhp. In addition to its overall power, special attention has been given to increasing the engine's torque to improve traction, one of the key factors in delivering efficient driving performance. With 350Nm, the Citroën DS3 R3 engine offers unrivalled flexibility on the road.

Citroën DS3 R3 has benefitted from the extensive expertise acquired by Citroën Racing through its involvement in the World Rally Championship. As with the C4 WRC, the six-speed gearbox features semi-automatic sequential control, enabling gear changes to be made twice as quickly as with a manual gearbox, whilst also improving the reliability of the car's powertrain.

The suspension system uses the very latest technologies and has been designed for all road surfaces, from rough gravel to smooth tarmac. A wide variety of setup options are available, allowing Citroën DS3 R3 to be adapted to all driving styles. Citroën Racing recommends the use of BFGoodrich tyres.
Built using production-derived components and specific racing parts, Citroën DS3 R3 is available at an affordable price and will be marketed by Citroën Racing in kit and ready-to-race versions.

CHASSIS: CITROËN RACING, EXPERTS WHEN IT COMES TO SAFETY
Citroën Racing has deployed its extensive expertise in passive safety and chassis rigidity on Citroën DS3 R3. The standard monocoque chassis is lighter because it does not have the supports used on the production model. It has been re-welded and fitted with a multi-point roll cage made of over 45 metres of steel tubing. The industrially designed roll cage is pre-assembled outside the car, which means the welding is of a higher quality. Various details of the chassis design, such as the harness cross-member and the door crossbars, help to improve safety for the driver pairing. The monocoque chassis is delivered with all the brackets and mountings required to assemble the car, which reduces the construction time and cost.
In order to improve weight distribution, the battery and automatic fire extinguisher are positioned behind the seats. A steel skidplate protects the underside of the engine and also helps to lower the car's centre of gravity. The flexible, FIA-homologated fuel tank remains in its original position.

GROUND LINK SYSTEMS: ADAPTABLE AND HIGH-PERFORMANCE SUSPENSION
Citroën DS3 R3's efficiency on all road surfaces stems from the quality of its suspension system, designed to make full use of the Group R regulations. At the front, the production sub-frame has been altered so that tubular wishbones can be fitted. The axle is both lighter and stronger than on the production model. Developed in conjunction with BOS, the shock absorbers boast several innovative features:

The aluminium struts are lubricated in an oil bath, which improves the consistency and lifespan of the suspension.
The lower, frontally-offset anchor point helps increase the travel and the guiding length of the shock absorber.

In order to adapt its road handling to all driving styles, Citroën DS3 R3 offers a variety of setup options: three track shock absorbers (low and high-speed compression and rebound, adjustable hydraulic bump stop), camber and toe (front and rear), track width and castor (front).
At the rear, the production cross-member has been reinforced and altered to make it easier to fit the anti-roll bar. The removable rear wheel hubs allow the camber and toe settings to be adjusted independently.
The braking system features a 'pedal box' assembly with two master cylinders. The discs are held in place by four-calliper pistons at the front and two-calliper pistons at the rear. The handbrake is hydraulic.
ENGINE: A 1.6-LITRE HIGH-PRESSURE TURBO WITH INCREDIBLE TORQUE
For the first time ever, Citroën Racing has produced a customer-racing product fitted with a turbocharged engine. The experience acquired by the brand in WRC for almost ten years has been put to good use in its design. The 1.6-litre THP (high pressure turbo) engine is very closely related to the production model used throughout the PSA Group. Fitted with a regulation-compliant 29mm turbo flange, it develops 210bhp of power and generates a torque of 350Nm (with commercially available fuel). This second value improves traction and delivers excellent versatility at all engine speeds.
In accordance with the regulations, many parts have been taken or derived from the production model. For example, the intake and exhaust manifolds, turbocharger, injectors and injection pumps are identical to those used on production models. The air filter, camshaft, pistons, connecting rods and engine flywheel are, however, specific racing parts. To avoid oil surges during long corners and to increase ground clearance, the oil sump has been altered and fitted with a composite partition. The exhaust and turbocharger system is also specific; the catalytic converter is similar to the one used on C4 WRC. Citroën DS3 R3's engine ECU also includes a data acquisition system that is able to check a large number of parameters.
GEARBOX: A MAJOR FIRST WITH SEMI-AUTOMATIC CONTROL
One of the main innovations on Citroën DS3 R3 concerns its gearbox. For the first time, a customer-racing product has been fitted with a semi-automatic gearbox, which reduces the time spent changing gears and increases reliability. The electronic management system only authorises gear changes when the engine parameters allow it. Once again, the expertise developed by Citroën Racing in WRC enabled this cutting-edge technology to be adapted to Citroën DS3 R3.
Inside the cabin, the composite fibre steering wheel-mounted paddles are just as ergonomic as on C4 WRC: the driver flicks the paddle backwards to move up the gears and flicks it forwards to move down the gears. The clutch pedal is still present, but is only used to drive off. During subsequent gear changes, the clutch is automatically controlled.
Under the bonnet, the specific elements of the semi-automatic control (solenoid valves, actuators and pressure unit) have all been taken from the production model and adapted to the six-speed gearbox. The housing for the twin-disc clutch has been cast in aluminium, whilst the gearing casing has been cut from the block.
DEVELOPMENT: OVER 10,000KM OF TESTING
After twelve months spent in Citroën Racing's design office, Citroën DS3 R3 made its first outing at the end of August 2009. To check the sturdiness of the various components, initial testing was carried out on 'rough gravel' test tracks, typical of the road surfaces seen in Mediterranean rallies. Development testing continued on tarmac, the ideal surface to test performance, and on flowing gravel roads. In total, Citroën DS3 R3 covered over 10,000km in development testing, split evenly among the different types of road surfaces.
Several drivers took part in the tests. They all had varying levels of experience, different preferences and driving styles, which meant that the engineers could accumulate data that will benefit future Citroën DS3 R3 owners. All of the drivers agreed that the car was easy to drive and highlighted three strengths: the torque of the 1.6-litre engine, the semi-automatic gearbox and the suspension. Citroën DS3 R3 offers impressive performance levels and looks set to become the new leader in its category in rallying.

2011 Citroen DS3 Racing

2011-12-23T02:04:00.000-08:00

Developed by Citroën Racing - the winning team behind five WRC Manufacturer's titles and six Driver's titles for Sébastien Loeb and co-driver Daniel Elena - Citroën DS3 Racing has an impeccable sporting pedigree. The specially tuned 1.6-litre THP engine produces 207hp and maximum torque of 275Nm, which means Citroën DS3 Racing boasts a top speed of 146mph, a 0-62 mph time of just 6.5 seconds and takes just 26.5 seconds to cover 1,000m from a standing start.
Based on the top-of-the-range DS3 DSport THP 150, Citroën DS3 Racing has been extensively modified, by Citroën Racing, to deliver optimised sporting characteristics and specific equipment from the world of motorsport.
Significantly better specified than many of its competitors, Citroën DS3 Racing is a driver's car that doesn't compromise on comfort or convenient technology - standard equipment includes automatic digital air conditioning, Bluetooth with USB connectivity and an eight-speaker HiFi system. Citroën DS3 Racing also has some new features such as S.ESP (Switchable Electronic Stability Programme) and the Citroën eTouch Assistance System.

RACING INSPIRED DESIGN

Respecting all of the fundamental design codes of DS3, Citroën DS3 Racing adds many more motorsport inspired features, including carbon fibre components such as the rear diffuser, front bumper, side rubbing strips and wheel arch extensions. The interior has received the same special treatment and the extensive use of carbon fibre continues on the centre console, steering wheel and door inserts.

Citroën DS3 Racing is available in two distinctive colour schemes, one with an Obsidian Black (pearlescent) body and a Sport Orange roof the other features a Polar White body with a Carbon Grey roof. The orange or grey roof colours are matched to the alloy wheels, door mirrors, chevrons, grille surround, tailgate spoiler and dashboard fascia.
The exclusive nature of Citroën DS3 Racing is clearly denoted by the addition of 'Citroën Racing' on the doors and figure-hugging sports seats, and the Citroën DS3 Racing signature on the rear tailgate.

POWER & DYNAMICS
Citroën's new DS3 Racing has everything needed to become the benchmark in its segment in terms of dynamic performance. Thrills and excitement are at the heart of Citroën DS3 Racing and on the road this car's sporting pedigree immediately becomes evident. Citroën DS3 Racing's power and performance come directly from the brand's expertise in rallying. Citroën Racing's engineers have increased the power output of the 1.6-litre THP engine from 156hp to 207hp. Maximum torque is also increased, from 240Nm to 275Nm - an increase of nearly 15% - and is available over a wide rpm range to improve acceleration and engine flexibility.
Citroën DS3 Racing's chassis and running gear have also been adapted and enhanced. The team's engineers have been able to accentuate feedback from the road, with even more precision and control, sportier handling and swifter cornering. The suspension settings have been modified, specific dampers have been fitted, front and rear tracks have been widened by 30mm and the ride height has been lowered by 15 mm. The braking system has also been up-rated, with 4-piston callipers and special brake discs at the front. All of these changes combine to profoundly enhance the on-road behaviour of Citroën DS3 Racing.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

Dimensions (L x W x H): 3962 x 1717 x 1443 mm
Wheelbase: 2464 mm
Engine: THP 207hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Engine Type: 4 cylinders, 16v petrol + turbo
Capacity: 1598 cm3
Max power: 207 hp (152 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Max torque: 275 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm
Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza 215/40 R 18
Standing 1,000 m: 26.5 s
0-100 km/h: 6.5 s
CO2 Emissions: 149 g/km

2011 Citroen Tubik Concept

2011-12-23T01:54:00.000-08:00

With the launch of its Mulicity portal, Citroen established itself as a facilitator of mobility. Today, continuing its research in this field, it is exploring a new area. Drawing upon its expertise and the best "Créative Technologie", Citroen has developed Tubik, a high-tech executive shuttle based on one key idea: travel should be fun. Come with us on a shared, intelligent, connected and eco-friendly journey!
Today, it is journey time rather than distance that is important. In the modern world, information travels faster than people, the same journey can be made using a multitude of different means of transport, and consumers are looking first and foremost for an easy way of getting around. In consequence, the challenge for vehicle manufacturers is to develop solutions tailored to the mobility issues of the future. The Multicity project is the result of studies carried out by Citroen on mobility. This project is already a reality with the launch in France of Citroen Multicity, an online portal and routefinder that covers all available means of transport (car, train, plane, etc.) to make travelling easier.

Today, the Multicity project is moving into its next phase with a new solution: Tubik, a concept car designed to make travel meaningful again.
Society is changing, and with it the idea of family. Sociologists talk about "affective groups" to describe this change which includes blended families and groups of friends. These "affective groups", which are no longer limited to just four or five people, need to be able to travel together, without having to leave their luggage at home owing to a lack of space.
This is the challenge addressed by Citroen Tubik, a 9-seater vehicle whose styling and characteristics reflect the prestige cues of a modern saloon. Tubik was inspired by Citroen's renowned Type H, fondly referred to by the general public as the "TUB" (the name of its predecessor). Citroen design teams gave Tubik distinctive, offbeat styling, with colours and materials that aim to meet the highest standards in sophistication and comfort.
To make travel enjoyable again, Citroen Tubik creates a lounge-style cocoon dedicated to comfort and relaxation. The modular seats, designed to be arranged in many different ways (semi-reclined, face-to-face, etc.), and the onboard technology (including a giant, semi-circular screen, and high-definition spatialised sound) turn the cabin into an area for living and sharing. The journey becomes as important as the destination!
Providing generous space while keeping fuel consumption under control demands an innovative drive train. Hybrid4 technology solves the equation. With this full-hybrid technology and the efforts made to improve aerodynamic design, Tubik maintains CO2 emissions at a level comparable to a conventional saloon.

Reconciling function with looks
The design lines of Tubik are a nod to the Citroen TUB (from the French acronym for low front-wheel drive commercial vehicle) and its ingenious upgrade, the Citroen Type H, whose versatility and style made it a best-seller of its times (half a million units in 34 years on the market). Sporting a similar body shape to its illustrious predecessor, Citroen Tubik is big enough (2.08m wide, 2.05m tall, 4.80m long) to carry up to nine passengers.
The front end, which stands apart from the main body, brings to mind the corrugated metal of the Citroen Type H with its ribbing, while the windscreen pillars are reminiscent of the Type H's two characteristic ridges.
To make Tubik look even more protective, Citroen designers combined two contrasting colours: the metal grey of the body shell envelops the pearlescent white at either end, marking the position of the combustion engine (at the front) and electric motor (at the rear) used by the full-hybrid diesel drive train.
With this simple but attractive exterior, the large two-way panoramic window and two large doors giving access to the driving position and living area are barely visible. The driver's door is rear-opening while the side door runs in a circle to free up the entire side of the vehicle.
And as journeys generally involve luggage, the rear end conceals a cleverly designed hold.

Taking the place of the captain
When you get behind the wheel of Citroen Tubik, you enter a high-tech world designed around the driving position. This area is dominated by what Citroen designers call the "cyclotron", a system that groups - in one circular line - the seat, pedal assembly, steering wheel and circular head-up display The aluminium grey of the bodywork is also present on the cyclotron, to accentuate its robust, protective looks.
Installed in the black full-grain leather seat, the driver is identified by a system of fingerprint recognition. Around him/her, on the head-up display and the screen positioned in the centre of the steering wheel, is all the information required for navigation. To see what's happening behind the vehicle, a screen shows the pictures from the reverse and rearview cameras.

No more: "Are we there yet?"
The living area is a lounge-style cocoon. The living area features materials borrowed from the worlds of architecture and interior design: felt seats, silken backrests and door panels, and a leather floor. The light ambience of the cabin brings out the nuances in the colours and materials. To see without being seen, the moucharaby and large two-way panoramic window are an original way for passengers to see out easily, without others looking in.
Passengers can arrange the three rows of seats as they wish. Each seat is independent for maximum comfort. The first row of seats lets two people sit facing the road or facing the other passengers. The middle row can seat up to three people or, alternatively, it can be converted into a small table, be folded onto the last row to free up an area of almost 2m², or be folded out completely to create a meridienne-style seat. This configuration is ideal for relaxation. Passengers become spectators, taking advantage of the large multimedia screen in a semi-reclined position.

Travel without limits
Citroen Tubik is not only an exceptionally spacious vehicle, it also has an eye on the environment. With the Hybrid4 technology, it is able to keep CO2 emission levels close to those of a conventional saloon. The full-hybrid diesel drive train increases vehicle range over an internal combustion engine and also maximises traction with its four-wheel drive mode (the front wheels being driven by the combustion engine and the rear wheels by the electric motor).
Citroen Tubik is fitted with 22-inch wheels equipped with tall, narrow tyres with very low rolling resistance, in order to optimise fuel consumption. For a better compromise between comfort and roadholding, Tubik features hydractive suspension, a technology exclusive to Citroen. Vehicle height is controlled in real time and so remains constant, regardless of load. At high speeds, the car is automatically lowered to promote aerodynamic performance and contribute to cutting fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

2012 Citroen DS4

2011-12-23T01:39:00.000-08:00

Citroën has released first details for the new Citroën DS4, a unique and attractive blend of creativity, dynamism, exclusivity and versatility. DS4 is the second model in Citroën's distinctively-styled DS line.
Citroën DS4 brings an alluring mixture of premium design codes and a bold approach to automotive styling, with an emphasis on driving pleasure and advanced vehicle architecture. DS4 is a model with a multitude of talents, effortlessly responding to a broad range of owner needs, while enhancing the appeal and vitality of the motoring experience.
Citroën DS4 combines sophistication and refinement with a dynamic coupé-like body, creating exceptional versatility and day-to-day practicality within a compact design - 4.27m (l), 1.81m (w) & 1.53m (h).

Citroën DS4 delivers a new "at-the-wheel" experience with unrivalled driving sensations and outstanding agile on-road handling. With its slightly raised stance and taut lines, Citroën DS4 is a unique and eye-catching addition to the segment.
Finely crafted to convey a prestigious presence both inside and out, Citroën DS4 offers meticulous detailing from carefully applied chrome touches to premium cabin materials - such as the finest quality leather seats. A large panoramic windscreen, offering enhanced occupant visibility, illuminates the driver-focused cockpit, creating a bright and welcoming environment.
Combining coupé style with 2+2 door practicality, Citroën DS4 offers three full-sized rear seats, accessed by rear doors with hidden handles that are seamlessly integrated into the body's flowing lines. Citroën DS4 also benefits from a capacious 370-litre boot and a host of clever storage solutions.
Citroën DS4 comes with a choice of five refined and efficient engines - two HDi diesels and three petrol powerplants.
All engines deliver a combination of powerful performance - including a new to Citroën 200hp petrol unit - and ecologically sensitive motoring. Citroën's new e-HDi drivetrains for example deliver improved fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.
Citroën DS4 will be revealed at the 2010 Paris Motor Show and is expected to go on sale later in 2011.

UNIQUE STYLING
An example of truly creative design, Citroën DS4 boldly blends a mix of the most desirable styling references to create an exciting new automotive proposition. Marc Pinson, DS4's chief stylist, comments, "Reinterpreting cues opened up new possibilities, bringing practical and surprising solutions to automotive mobility".
Compact and muscular, the DS signature on the bonnet is complemented by a striking LED light signature around the front fog lights. The LEDs are illuminated both day and night. The eye-catching profile, featuring a chrome-finished waistline surrounding dark tinted windows, is enhanced by muscular wheel arches - that emphasise the large wheels (up to 19") - and is crowned by a tautly drawn roofline with a spoiler for added vitality. The lower part of the rear bumper is finished in chrome and the horizontal detailing on the rear light clusters highlights their innovative boomerang design.

TAILORED INTERIOR
As with its prestigious exterior, Citroën DS4's cabin exudes power, dynamism and refinement. The driving position is enveloping, with chrome-surround dials focused directly towards the driver's eye-line. The characterful, sculptured dashboard also uses high quality materials for a superior tactile feel.
DS4's cabin is dominated by the large panoramic windscreen that extends backwards into the roofline. Offering up to 45° of upward vision, the panoramic glazed area combines with Citroën DS4's slightly raised stance, to provide optimised visibility for the driver, with a bright yet intimate, airy cabin environment for passengers.
Allowing owners to personalise the interior, DS4 is available with a choice of five leather combinations, including two-tone options. Range-topping models are also equipped with high quality leather on the dashboard and door panels - complete with a 'Bracelet' design on the seats, evoking the links of a watch strap.
For an added touch of luxury, there is chrome detailing on the air vent surrounds, instrument cluster, gear lever and parts of the central console. Aluminium pedals, embossed leather door handles and ambient lighting are further evidence of Citroën DS4's attention to premium detail.

NATURALLY DYNAMIC & AGILE
With its high-set, taut and agile stance, Citroën DS4 is tuned for dynamic performance, appealing to drivers looking for an involving motoring experience. "We really wanted drivers to feel like they have the road at the tips of their fingers", says Jérémie Maestracci, DS4's project manager.
On the road, Citroën DS4 exercises exemplary control, giving occupants a reassuring sense of safety in all circumstances. Fitted with a MacPherson type suspension assembly at the front, a flexible transverse beam at the rear and hydraulic steering with an electric pump unit, the platform is a tried and tested solution tailored for the distinctive set-up of the car.
Depending on trim level, DS4 is fitted with large-diameter (340mm) ventilated disc brakes and, as standard, with dedicated braking control systems, including ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). Ensuring optimal vehicle control in the most demanding driving situations, Citroën DS4 also features intelligent traction control with ESP.

DS4 will be launched with a choice of five refined and highly efficient Euro 5 engines. The two HDi diesels - an HDi 110 (also available as an e-HDi version) and an HDi 160 - are both fitted with Citroën's Diesel Particulate Filter System. The three petrol powerplants - VTi 120, THP 155 and the new THP 200 - were co-developed with BMW. The new THP 200 - based on the 1.6-litre engine - delivers flexible power delivery and performance thanks to its power output (147kW), plentiful torque (275Nm at 1,700rpm) - with low CO2 emissions of just 149g/km. All engines are available with manual or EGS six-speed gearboxes.
Special attention has been given to the car's internal acoustics, retaining the refined atmosphere on-board by minimising engine vibration, wind and road noise. This has been achieved by specifying a laminated panoramic windscreen with damping film, fitting additional sound absorbent material around the engine compartment and enhanced sealing barriers on the body and doors.

EXPERTLY EFFICIENT
Citroën DS4 was designed from the start to have a reduced environmental footprint - especially evident in its construction - by using top-quality components, an ecologically focused manufacturing process and the use of 'green materials' - around 15% of the 200kg of plastic used in DS4 vehicle is derived from 'green materials.'
Citroën DS4 can be specified with Citroen's micro-hybrid e-HDi technology, which is available from launch on versions powered by the HDi 110 engine.

The e HDi system comprises of:

an economical HDi Euro 5 diesel power plant
a new generation Stop & Start system, which instantly cuts out the engine when the car comes to a halt (red lights, traffic jams).
a second-generation reversible alternator and an e-booster function that restarts the engine instantly (0.4 seconds)
an electronically controlled alternator that recovers energy during braking;
an Electronic Gearbox System (EGS) with optimised gear changes.

All required features such as the radio, air-conditioning and steering functions remain in operation when the engine is stopped by the system. This innovative technology can reduce the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by as much as 15% in built-up urban environments.

DAY-TO-DAY PLEASURE
Citroën DS4's compact exterior belies a spacious and luxuriously comfortable cabin, which can be easily accessed by the car's 2+2 door layout. To make it easier to access the rear seats - often seen as a weak point for some sporty models - DS4 features seamlessly integrated rear doors with handles hidden in the door frames.
Thanks to its optimised design, the front doors of Citroën DS4 have been made narrower and lighter, making them easier to open and close, promoting easy access at the front.
Another asset in terms of versatility and roominess is DS4's 370-litre (VDA) boot, which is similar in volume to that of many conventional saloons.
Citroën DS4 also has numerous storage compartments for extra travelling comfort, including a large, well lit glove box; door pockets big enough for 1.5-litre bottles; and even a drawer under the front passenger seat. The intelligent architecture of the high-level central console (available on models fitted with EGS) also provides spacious storage areas. The largest of these - which is cooled, illuminated and protected by a sliding cover - can hold up to four 50-cl bottles and houses a connectivity area with an audio-jack, a USB port and a 12-volt socket. The large compartment located under the front armrest also features an additional power source.

CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE ON-BOARD
Beyond its distinctive styling and dynamic performance, Citroën DS4's cabin overflows with 'Créative Technologie', providing equipment, functionality and innovative features for first-class travelling comfort and ultimate user convenience. Features available include an advanced audio system with processing software for effective soundscaping, delivering high quality, authentic sound evenly throughout the cabin. For ultimate driving luxury, massaging front seats are available with electric lumbar adjustment in the front passenger's and driver's seat backs.
Another example of the tailored DS4 experience, drivers can select their own on-board ambience from four ranges of polyphonic sounds - Classic, Crystal Symphony, Jungle Fantasy & Urban Rythmik - for alerts and reminders; select from three air-conditioning flow levels - soft, average & intense; and choose from an array of colours for the instrument panel - spanning from white to blue.
Drivers can access all key driving and comfort controls - which are clearly visible and even backlit for night-time use - without taking their hands off the wheel.

For complete peace-of-mind, Citroën DS4 is also equipped with a range of safety-enhancing technologies:

The Citroën eTouch Assistance System automatically or manually makes emergency or assistance calls, using a built-in SIM card, for rapid intervention in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised.
Front fog lamps with static cornering lights provide an extra beam that increases visibility when turning - by up to 75° to the left and right of the vehicle. The lights automatically illuminate when the driver indicates or turns the wheel to an angle of more than 60°.
A blind-spot monitoring system - based on the same technology as reversing parking sensors - the four ultrasound sensors alert the driver if a vehicle is in their blind spot ( an area stretching to around 5m behind the rear bumper and 3.5m from each side of the car). The driver is alerted by means of a pictogram displayed in the wing mirrors.
Programmable cruise control with speed limiter also allows drivers to pre-set cruising and top speeds for added safety and convenience on the open road.

FIRST-CLASS SERVICE
When launched, DS4 will be available with first-class customer service. Citroën FreeDrive, first introduced with DS3, is a distinctive package for Citroën DS4 owners, providingcomplete peace-of-mind with an extensive range of services that can be personalised to meet the specific needs of the customer. FreeDrive contracts can be tailored to cover:

scheduled and annual servicing
periodic maintenance
replacement of wear and tear items
Citroën Assistance (Roadside/At Home/Recovery/Onward Travel/European Cover)
replacement vehicle during regular servicing, MOT Testing
valet cleaning during servicing.

FreeDrive also offers optional tyre replacement cover, a 'Pick-up' service from the customer's home or workplace, or a 'Pick-up & Delivery' service.

2012 Citroen DS5

2011-12-23T01:27:00.000-08:00

Building on 90 years of innovation, the Citroën brand has extended its product offer and developed a new line to stand alongside its main range: the DS line. Today comprising the Citroën DS3 and DS4, the DS line targets customers looking for radical and assertive cars and seeking a resolutely modern approach to premium products.

The Citroën DS5, set for launch in late 2011, is a new phase in the development of the DS line. The innovative and visionary model fits perfectly with the brand's "Créative Technologie" baseline and features even bolder choices in style, architecture, sensations and refinement. The Citroën DS5 experience is about fully embracing the pleasure of driving an outstanding vehicle. A singular creation, the Citroën DS5 surprises and appeals with:

its styling: boasting an audacious body and inspired style, the DS5 is an aerodynamic sculpture that expresses the finest in Citroën expertise. It features authentic materials including club leather and aluminium, together with unique upholstery such as the "watchstrap" seats that embody the finest in French-style luxury. Extraordinary, bewitching and attractive, the Citroën DS5 appeals, naturally.
the intelligence of its design: the Citroën DS5 is an extraordinary vehicle that proposes a new take on the premium segment while combining compact body dimensions with a spacious interior. It goes beyond traditional compromises between aesthetics and user features, marrying driving pleasure with shared well-being.

its technologies: it also features the finest Citroën technology, including intelligent traction control, a second-generation lane departure warning system, automatic activation of the high-beam function depending on surrounding traffic, head-up display in colour on a blade, and a reverse parking camera. The Citroën DS5 will also be the brand's first model available with Hybrid4 full-hybrid diesel technology, combining strong performance (200 bhp, four drive wheels) and all-new driving sensations (electric power in the city, acceleration boost in "Sport" mode) for CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km.
its road performance: like the Citroën DS3 and DS4, the DS5 offers a dynamic yet serene drive in all circumstances. The car's unique road feel gives drivers the feeling that the wheels are at their fingertips.
its spirit: with its strong emotional content, the Citroën DS5 invites passengers to take part in an amazing onboard experience, with a cockpit-inspired driver's station where dream and reality meet.

The DS line, comprising the DS3, DS4 and DS5, is produced in France and sold internationally. The Citroën DS5 will be launched in Russia, Latin America and China in 2012.

Citroën DS5: DARE TO SURPRISE, ALWAYS ATTRACT
Innovative and visionary, the Citroën DS5 openly states its difference. It is an object of pleasure, an emotional vehicle that stirs the imagination, transforming each trip into a unique journey.

An aerodynamic sculpture
The Citroën DS5 had a bold source of inspiration: the C-SportLounge concept car. The objective for the Marque was to go even further with the real production vehicle.
The Citroën DS5 surprises. By its style, by its singular proportions and by its instantly recognisable silhouette. The one-in-a-million body looks like a shooting break possessed by the spirit of a Gran Turismo.
A unique creation, the Citroën DS5 is an aerodynamic sculpture made of now flowing now taut lines, promising the onlooker an amazing drive.
The front end instantly identifies the Citroën DS5 as a member of the DS family with an oversized air intake, a wide, chrome-plated grille housing the chevrons, and an incisive gaze underscored by the LED light signature.

The Citroën DS5 fully expresses its personality in profile. The body exudes vitality and the promise of a well-appointed interior. The sculpted sides catch the eye and create a play of shadow and light. The light is reflected by a slender chrome sabre running from the tip of the headlamp to the front windows. The sabre, cast in one piece, signs the exterior styling of the Citroën DS5. The shadow of the flanks is cradled in the recessed curves of the rear wing, a distinctive characteristic of DS line vehicles.
The rear view further underlines the rank of the Citroën DS5 on the road. The car sits squarely on wide tracks, underlined by twin exhaust pipes built into the rear bumper and highlighted by a rear signature of six light guides.
The design approach of the Citroën DS5 combines these good looks with aerodynamic efficiency. The side air intakes on the bumper visually widen the front end while channelling the air flow around the wheels. The one-piece polycarbonate quarter-light features built-in aerodynamic deflectors. The result is an extremely aerodynamic design, with a Cx of just 0.29 and an SCx of 0.69 m2.
Powerfully bewitching with its sharp gaze, amazingly attractive with its refined detailing, and definitively extraordinary with its daring silhouette, the Citroën DS5 appeals, naturally.

Elegance down to the last detail
The body is cloaked in an alternation of chrome-finished details (side strips, double tail pipe, sabre) and gloss blacks (front and rear bumper strips, window weather strips), together with generously sized diamond-effect alloy wheels (from 16 to 19 inches) whose design expresses movement.
The Citroën DS5 is available in eight body colours, and the chrome work also comes in a smoked version called "Dark Chrome".

Charismatic cabin
Charisma and appeal are in abundance inside. The Citroën DS5 expresses its singularity with a uniquely styled cabin, inspired by the world of aviation and fully delivering on the promise of the exterior styling.
The cockpit roof is the most symbolic feature. A new interpretation of the sunroof adapted to the Citroën DS5 universe, the cockpit roof is divided into three wells of light (0.58 m2 of glazed area), each one of which can be covered individually, and creates an original light signature day and night.
The driver-focused driving position combines the posture of a coupé with the style of a Gran Turismo. Highlights include a wraparound dashboard, vertical steering wheel with a broad wheel centre, driver-oriented information, and a wide central console with a small gear stick positioned in the natural continuation of the driver's forearm.

The main controls are grouped in the centre of the vehicle in two central consoles, one positioned lower down and one on the ceiling, equipped with buttons, thumb wheels and special toggles, to be handled with a pilot's touch. A feast for the imagination.

The Citroën DS5 also benefits from Citroën's finest expertise in quality and refinement. It boasts authentic, premium materials such as finest-grain club leather and aluminium touches, some with a rubbed finish. The seat upholstery - including "Sportlounge", combining vitality with refinement, and "Watchstrap", a true signature of the DS line - is unique on the market. The specially designed central console uses multiplex technology that offers considerable stylistic liberty. Citroën expertise is visible in the great care paid to each detail.

ORIGINAL ONBOARD EXPERIENCE
Motorists increasingly are looking for cars that are easy to use day to day while fully delivering on driving pleasure. The architecture of the Citroën DS5 was designed to reconcile fun at the wheel with comfort, and aesthetics with practicality.

Compact and roomy
The Citroën DS5 is an outstanding car with an intelligent design that transcends the usual compromises between driving pleasure and shared well-being. This daring challenge was met with out-and-out success.

At 4.53 m long (25 cm shorter than a Citroën C5 saloon), 1.85 m wide and 1.51 m high, the DS5 is sleek and compact. This compact design brings two advantages: more agility and responsiveness but also improved fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions.
The compact exterior in no way undermines cabin comfort. On the contrary. The Citroën DS5's generous boot volume, of up to 468 litres VDA, rivals that of a Sportwagon. The DS5 also has five real seats, five doors and saloon-like rear accessibility and spaciousness.
Alongside the usual storage areas, including the glovebox and those in the door panels, the central console has a 13-litre double storage compartment under the armrest. The upper part of this compartment features Jack and USB sockets for connecting mobile devices unobtrusively. The lower part, cooled and lighted, can hold a 1.5-litre bottle. The upper console on the cockpit ceiling includes two eyewear storage areas that push open, while the driver gets a storage compartment located next to his or her left hand.

A show on the road
Cabin lighting plays a key role in the Citroën DS5 onboard experience. The LED-based interior lighting gradually lights up the cabin. The driver simply pushes the hands-free start-up button to bring the cabin to life. The transparent colour head-up display is deployed to display essential driving information, the three digital pads and instrument cluster needle spring into life. The ambient lighting creates a display of intermittent reds and whites around the driving position: red for the "radio" and "navigation" zones and the door-opening controls, and white for the cockpit console, air conditioning and hybrid thumb wheel… You're already on the road.

A velvet-smooth atmosphere
The amazing experience on board the Citroën DS5 is also a result of the velvet-smooth atmosphere, with cushioned, dull sounds. Acoustic treatment on the DS5 is similar to that of other recent Citroëns, with excellent insulation from exterior noise, filtered road noise and suppressed wind noise.
To achieve this result, soundproofing and sound absorption applied as close as possible to the sources of the noise. Each part of the Citroën DS5 was acoustically treated:

The body and opening panels (stiffness, polycarbonate rear quarter-light, laminated side windows, reinforced structure of windscreen pillars).
The engine compartment (absorbent material in scuttle vent, on mud flaps, suspension support, brake amplifier, engine shield).
The cabin (absorbent material in dashboard, air conditioning, entire air extraction system, upholstery sealing).

Onboard technologies
Together with comfort equipment, including dual-zone automatic air conditioning with three air flow levels (soft, medium, intense), the Citroën DS5 is available with a comprehensive range of audio and telematics equipment to enhance travelling comfort:

The USB and Jack connection are built in to the central armrest, for connecting mobile devices unobtrusively. The mobile device is then controlled using the audio system controls. The Citroën DS5 is also available with a 12V socket located behind the central console.
The audio system features ARKAMYS acoustic processing software for spatialised sound, producing authentic sound and distributing it evenly throughout the cabin.
For even more impressive musical sensations, a high-end hi-fi system has been developed with DENON. Comprising ten speakers (including an amplified subwoofer in the boot, a central channel in the dashboard and two tweeters in the rear doors) and a digital amplifier, the new system creates a vast sound landscape in the cabin that is well-positioned, consistent and true to the recordings. It reproduces extreme low bass, treble and low medium sounds as faithfully as possible.
The Citroën DS5 can also be equipped with the latest-generation in-car MyWay navigation. The system includes a high-resolution 7-inch colour widescreen, internal memory where mapping data is stored, speed limit sign reminders, and Bluetooth audio streaming for listening to music files stored on mobile phones.

Accessories for enhancing car travel
The Citroën DS5 is available with a range of accessories for enhancing car travel:

A 230 V/USB socket is available on all trim levels for charging laptops, musical devices, cameras and mobile phones.
Citroën WiFi On Board enables passengers to use the web during car travel. The WiFi box features a wireless connection for four devices simultaneously and works with the SIM card of the customer's internet 3G/3G+ key subscribed with the operator of their choice. Passengers can use the web connection to access their emails, instant messaging services, practical information and online games, all at the same time.
A multi-player Philips DVD equipped with two independent attachable screens ensures relaxed long journeys while bringing entertainment to the rear passengers.
Lastly, a multimedia support compatible with most screens measuring up to 13 inches or 330 mm (ideal for iPads, DVD players and Netbooks) can be fitted on the stalks of the front headrest and inclined for enhanced viewing comfort.

TECHNOLOGY AND PERFORMANCE
The Citroën DS5 features the very best in technology to provide an easy and relaxed drive combined with satisfying at-the-wheel sensations.

Technology for driving
For stable and efficient road manners, the Citroën DS5 is fitted with electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency brake assist and ABS, as well as a new Citroën innovation, intelligent traction control, combined with ESP for optimum vehicle control in the most delicate driving situations..
The DS5 is also equipped as standard with the Citroën eTouch service to remain connected in all circumstances. eTouch is a secure and free system available 24/7 using a built-in SIM card, notably including localised emergency and assistance calls (depending on country) to get the emergency services to the car as quickly as possible in the event of an incident or accident. Citroën eTouch features two additional services via the web: a virtual maintenance manual, for alerts on mechanical or safety incidents and information on upcoming servicing, and an eco-driving service, for monitoring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

In true Citroën spirit, the DS5 is a concentrate of simply obvious technologies. It was designed with useful and intuitive innovation in mind to make driving easier. Together with tried and tested technologies such as hill-start assist, an electric parking brake, parking assist and a programmable speed limiter-cruise control, the Citroën DS5 is fitted with:

automatic high-beam lamps. A miniature camera built into the interior door mirror processes the images received to manage the automatic high beam lights, switching them on and off as necessary, in line with ambient lighting and traffic conditions, for stress-free driving at night.
a second-generation lane departure warning system, with enhanced predictive capabilities. Lane departures, signalled via a vibration in the driver's seat, are detected by a miniature camera built in to the rearview mirror and road-line recognition technology based on digital imagery. This technology is used to counter the problem of drowsiness at the wheel.
colour head-up display. A transparent blade, rising up when the car is started, projects essential driving information (speed, speed limiter-cruise control settings and navigation settings) in the driver's direct line of sight. For Hybrid4 models, when the vehicle is running without consuming fuel, the display changes colour from white to blue, encouraging an ecological driving style. Drivers are left to concentrate on the essential.
reversing camera. Working with the MyWay navigation system, the reversing camera sends a colour image to the navigation screen. Using visual markers (red lines for the limits of the rear bumpers and blue lines for maximum wheel turn), drivers can manoeuvre their vehicles in complete safety.
fog lamps with static cornering lights. This system adds an extra beam when cornering to increase visibility of the inner part of the bend or intersection by up to 75° to the left and right of the car. This equipment springs into action automatically when the driver uses his indicator or when the steering wheel turn exceeds 60°.
hands-free access and starting. Drivers enter and start their vehicle with simple, intuitive actions while keeping the key on their person. The electronic key is detected when approaching the vehicle, the doors open and close with just the slightest brush against the handle, and the car starts with a simple push on the START button.

Dynamic road performance
The Citroën DS5 provides all-new driving sensations with a unique at-the-wheel experience combining dynamic handling and ride comfort:

The springing and damping settings provide a perfect "read" of the road while remaining easy to control. The dynamically tuned Citroën DS5 gives occupants the impression of being glued to the road while bringing passengers a feeling of safety in all circumstances.
- The precise and direct steering of the Citroën DS5 contributes to the car's dynamic feel. With hydraulic electric pump assistance, it offers a gradual and hearty response without being too delicate, especially on straight lines.
Lastly, along with active safety equipment (EBD, EBA, ABS, ESP, intelligent traction control), the Citroën DS5 has powerful brakes with a firm response, thanks in particular to 340 mm-diameter front brakes on most versions.

Four fuel engines
The third model of the DS line will be available on launch with two Euro V diesel engines equipped with particulate filters: the e-HDi 110 Airdream (EGS6), with new-generation Stop&Start micro-hybrid technology reducing CO2 emissions by up to 15%, and the HDi 160 (6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic), boasting remarkable performance for a pleasant and safe drive.
The Citroën DS5 is also powered by two turbocharged petrol powerplants with direct injection, both of them Euro V compliant and developed with BMW: the THP 155 (6-speed auto) and the THP 200 (6-speed manual). The THP 200 offers a remarkable drive with power of 147 kW and maximum torque of 275 Nm at 1,770 rpm.

The first Citroën with Hybrid4 technology
The DS5 is the first Citroën fitted with full-hybrid Hybrid4 technology combining the on-road performance of an HDi diesel and the efficiency of electric power. The system provides heady driving pleasure - with 200 bhp, four drive wheels, electric mode in cities, accelerator boost - along with extra low CO2 emissions, at just 99 g/km.
The originality of the Hybrid4 system lies in a blend of several technologies:

a 2.0 HDi 160 DPFS internal-combustion engine,
Stop&Start system with a second-generation reversible alternator,
automated 6-speed manual gearbox with optimised shifts,
permanent magnet synchronous motor located on a special multi-link rear axle developing power of 27 kW (37 bhp),
the Power Train Management Unit, which automatically manages the settings of the two engines with a view to reduced fuel consumption.

Hybrid4 technology offers several different driving settings. Using the thumb wheel on the central console, drivers choose from one of four modes: Auto, ZEV, 4 Wheel Drive and Sport.

"Auto" is the default setting. To optimise fuel consumption it automatically handles switches between the fuel engine and the electric motor.
"ZEV" (for Zero Emission Vehicle) is for driving with the electric motor only, for speeds of up to 60 km/h. Range in ZEV mode is between 2 km and 3 km, after which the car automatically switches back to "Auto".
"4 Wheel Drive" is used when drivers need enhanced grip at low speeds. The front wheels are powered by the internal-combustion engine and the back wheels by the electric motor. Ideal for tough ground and low-grip situations such as snow, mud and sand.
"Sport" provides extra responsiveness and vitality by making maximum use of the electric motor on top of the fuel engine. Accelerations and gear changes are revitalised by an electric "boost".

2013 Citroen C4 Aircross

2011-12-23T00:49:00.000-08:00

More than 100,000 new Citroën C4 vehicles have rolled of the assembly line since the model was launched one year ago. Following on from this commercial success, the Marque is now extending its C4 range with an original model: the Citroën C4 Aircross. This new vehicle reviews the conventional cues of compact SUV design. By combining style and technological innovation in a single car, the Citroën C4 Aircross is ideally suited to modern lifestyles that introduce a sense of escape into everyday activities. This new body style draws upon the Marque's technological excellence, combining the grip of an off-roader with the ride and driveability of a saloon. Available in 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive versions, depending on the engine, the Citroën C4 Aircross will be launched in the first half of 2012 and will be one of the front-runners in its segment in terms of CO2 emissions.
The styling of the Citroën C4 Aircross draws upon the Marque's DNA, combining the vitality of the other models in the range with the powerful styling of an off-roader.
The distinctive styling includes a front end of horizontal lines with aerodynamic vents at the extremities, accentuating the vehicle's compact appearance. The contours of the bonnet, which is visible from the driver's seat, the wide wheel arches and the reduced overhang all enhance the impression of robustness produced by this unique silhouette.

Close attention went into every detail and each part is designed to combine style and performance. The Citroën C4 Aircross' light signature, visible by day and at night, is formed by the LEDs at the front, which are vertically aligned in the aerodynamic vents. The shape of the large 18-inch wheels and the rear lights, directly inspired by the Hypnos concept car, has been reworked for optimal air flow and reduced CO2 emissions.
The sophisticated design of the Citroën C4 Aircross includes repeater lights in the door mirrors, light guides in the rear lights and a rearview camera built into the chrome trim on the tailgate.
The expressive style draws upon Citroën's distinctive design cues. Seen from the side, the inverted shark fin wing, which also hints at the glass side surfaces of the Hypnos concept car, is decorated with a chrome compass to show that the model is a member of the brand's SUV family.

A smart vehicle with transmission to suit all needs
With its latest-generation four-wheel transmission system, Citroën C4 Aircross boasts perfect roadholding under all conditions. This technology allows the car to be driven permanently in four-wheel drive mode, while the torque is optimally distributed between the front and rear wheels.
Using the single control positioned behind the gear lever, drivers can manually select one of the three transmission modes to meet their needs and their wishes: 2WD for optimal fuel consumption, 4WD,
which automatically distributes the torque between the front and rear axles, or lock mode, which increases the torque transmitted to the rear wheels for more grip under severe conditions.

Standard-setting CO2 emissions
Citroën C4 Aircross fulfils the brand's commitments to environmental protection with its HDi 110 engine, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, making this model is one of the front-runners in its segment in terms of CO2 emissions. And the HDi 110 engine will be available with 2WD and 4WD, so that everyone can choose the version that is best suited to their lifestyle.
Right from launch, the Citroën C4 Aircross will also benefit from the performance of the HDi 150 engine (also available with 2WD and 4WD with a 6-speed manual gearbox) and a 115 bhp 1.6i petrol engine (available in a 2WD version with a 5-speed manual gearbox).

Compact, manoeuvrable and a pleasure to drive
With its compact dimensions (4.34m long, 1.79m wide, 1.63m high), the outstandingly manoeuvrable (10.6m turning circle) Citroën C4 Aircross is at home in towns and cities. The comfort of this 5-seater is worthy of a saloon in the next segment up, while the 442-l boot comfortably meets the demands of modern life. The chassis and suspension were specially developed for a drive that is faithful to Citroën's values, offering the ideal compromise between comfort and roadholding.

Escape to a new mindset
Take to the road with complete peace of mind. The raised driver's position in the Citroën C4 Aircross offers a clear view of the road and surroundings.
Occupants of the Citroën C4 Aircross can enjoy blue skies even in the city, thanks to the large panoramic glass, which bathes the cab in light, contributing to the passengers' sense of well-being. At night, the atmosphere is cosier, and the panoramic roof is lit up by the LED light guides built into the roof.
The ergonomics of the highly functional drive station are designed so that drivers can get to know the car quickly and for easy everyday use. To make the drive and the ride even more comfortable, the Citroën C4 Aircross is crammed with equipment, from the hands-free access and starter, to the GPS navigation system with its touch-sensitive screen, rearview camera, transmission mode selector, USB port and Bluetooth connection for portable audio players.

2009 Chrysler 200C EV Concept

2011-12-23T00:19:00.000-08:00

The definitive blend of design and technology, the all-new Chrysler 200C EV concept redefines the idea of responsible mobility with a touch of class and sophistication never before embodied so elegantly in one vehicle.
"The Chrysler 200C EV concept represents the perfect blend of provocative design and leading-edge technology, as well as the new Chrysler DNA," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President - Product Development, Chrysler LLC. "Chrysler's latest concept vehicle combines the benefits of progressive, ENVI Range-extended Electric Vehicle technology - which offers nearly zero emissions during daily commutes - with a design that boasts a combination of modern shapes, a planted athletic stance with classic overtones and an undeniably luxurious interior.
"What makes the Chrysler 200C EV concept even more meaningful is the use of technology that will make traveling and managing one's life an absolute pleasure," Klegon added. "The 200C EV concept is a connectivity portal to the world outside, creating a rewarding relationship between driver and automobile. The result is a driving experience that celebrates the human instinct to be connected to our world."

The Chrysler 200C EV concept body was designed to manage aerodynamic forces while delivering a stunning form.
On the inside, the Chrysler 200C EV continues the theme of embracing the future with a highly sculpted and richly appointed environment. The interior is free of switches and levers. All vehicle functions, settings and uconnect features are managed via a panoramic multimedia touch screen, a passenger-dedicated "techno-leaf" and a stowable tablet PC.
Based on a shortened version of Chrysler's successful rear-wheel-drive platform, the Chrysler 200C EV is a performance sedan in a package that looks spirited and agile. It delivers a blend of style, performance and amenities that both automotive and technology enthusiasts want.
"The Chrysler 200C EV embodies our passion for problem solving by combining the best of engineering and automotive design," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President - Design. "With the 200C EV, we were able to maximize the effectiveness of the ENVI powertrain with the stunning, wind-cheating vehicle shape, while pushing toward the future with the avant-garde interior and advanced in-vehicle connectivity.
"Designed for the car lover, the Chrysler 200C EV was inspired by Chrysler's dynamic design legacy, and provides a glimpse at the possibilities for a next-generation Chrysler performance sedan," Gilles added.

Simple and Elegant Exterior Styling
The Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle evokes timeless beauty, coupling the organic form and language of Chrysler's deep design roots with the noble proportions of the Chrysler 300 to create a modern product statement that appeals to both luxury and sports car enthusiasts.
"It was important to design a car that not only appealed to the Chrysler enthusiast, but also could sway the interest of a wide variety of potential customers," said Nick Malachowski, Chrysler 200C EV Lead Exterior Designer. "The essence of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle is sophisticated and fresh. It embraces a more organic design philosophy and helps to push the Chrysler brand design to the next level."
Efficiency is a key element in the design of the Chrysler 200C EV, as its swept-back front end contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamics. The front fascia is a modern interpretation of the winged Chrysler badge, and its distinct grille continues to shape and evolve Chrysler's brand identity. The encompassed grille bars within the front fascia reinforce the sinuous elegance of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle with its assertive shape and precise execution.

The headlamps and taillamps are treated as dramatic sculptural elements on the vehicle and reinforce the organic form and function carried throughout the design theme. Their placement on the far corners of the vehicle help to visually reduce the front and rear overhangs and contribute to the vehicle's efficient appearance. The lower frontal fog lights and rear backup lights are seamlessly integrated onto the surrounding fascia, and are minimized in scale through the use of LED technology. Modern graphic cues, such as the use of a dissipating dot matrix, are utilized throughout the concept vehicle as both functional and visual elements.
The Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle projects a confident stance and proportion with its optimized wheel-to-body relationship. The clean body-side and restrained line work communicate an elegance achieved only when the "less is more" rule of modern design is followed. Simple, modern details such as aerodynamic mirrors and door handles continue the marriage of form and function.
The eco-friendly, water-based Liquid Graphite Pearl exterior color of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle is a luminous, dark gray, which conveys a serious and sophisticated attitude. The windows are tinted in a Warm Bronze, helping to reduce air-conditioning loads. They are surrounded in hand-crafted polished aluminum accent trim.

Comfort and Connectivity Define Interior Space
Maximizing interior comfort, utilizing space and creating a connected environment were key objectives in creating the interior of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle. Natural, luxurious, organic materials and modern furniture design served as inspiration for the interior design team.
In contrast to the exterior color, the interior space is light and inviting. On the inside, Leaf Green LED lighting and stitching accentuates the organic, clean shape. A combination of Pearl, Graphite and Leaf Green colors combine to create a warm and inviting interior cabin.
"The interior space of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle is defined by a modern, sculptural form and language that doesn't sacrifice an open and spacious feel," said Ryan Patrick Joyce, Chrysler 200C EV Lead Interior Designer. "If occupants are given the choice to take the short or long route home, I want the interior to inspire them to choose the long way."
Immediately noticeable upon entry is the large screen located on the instrument panel. Starting the vehicle activates the electronic instrument panel that contains an advanced electronic vehicle information center, the next generation of Chrysler's uconnect infotainment system and a compound touch surface.

The compound touch surface is a touch screen that serves as the hub for the vehicle's connectivity system - a system that offers endless avenues of communication and transforms the interior into a portal to the outside world. It can be personalized to suit different drivers or simplified based on preference. Similar to recently introduced touch-screen electronic devices, the driver is able to move images, select infotainment choices and customize images, backgrounds, mood, volume and lighting by simply touching the screen itself.
The emphasis on open space is a hallmark of Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle. An aluminum appliqué dramatically sweeps from the center console, across the instrument panel and onto the passenger's door. The first-row compartment strays from traditional 50/50 seating and has been cleverly designed to give the perception of a more spacious 60/60 seating space. The driver and passenger seats, thin in design with a focus on spinal support, are covered in Pearl chromium-free leather and trimmed with Leaf Green stitching, giving the interior a sporty and luxurious look. All four bucket seats can be heated or cooled with individual temperature controls.

The first-row passenger has access to a techno-leaf that houses personal climate controls and an infotainment system. A simple touch to the smooth glass surface deploys a personal touch screen computer from the glove box. Users can surf the Internet, scroll through their personal media library, schedule vehicle maintenance or send directions to the driver. The compartment located below the techno-leaf is a charging station for personal mobile devices. Electronic devices can be charged by simply laying the unit on the charging pad. Rear passengers have access to a similar charging compartment under the cantilevered front-console arm rest.
The thick-rimmed, one-spoke steering wheel is trimmed in two types of leather. The top of the steering wheel is wrapped in Pearl leather and the lower is covered in Graphite leather accented with Leaf Green perforations. The steering column and stalks are milled from aluminum for a precise, technical feel. Drivers can move the transmission into drive positions via the right stalk. The horn pad is draped in Pearl leather with Leaf Green stitching and is dramatically swept back and emboldened with the Chrysler winged badge.

Climate control for the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle can be utilized indirectly or directly. Indirectly, air flows through the cabin via a metal-mesh outlet located near the windshield. Air can be pointed onto occupants through an illuminated metal-mesh bezel that surrounds the driver screen and passenger outboard vents.
Interior doors on the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle are two-tone. The top-half of the door is trimmed in Pearl leather with Leaf Green stitching and polished aluminum accents; the lower-half is an extension of the flooring.
The concept vehicle flooring is inspired by a Zen rock garden. Gentle Graphite waves flow from the floor, across the sides of the center console and undulate onto the doors. Removable carpeted floor mats are practical and sustainable as they are composed of recycled nylon.
Additional storage can be found in the trunk of the vehicle, which contains a load floor made from recycled leather.

Advance Interior Design Studio
The interior of the Chrysler 200C EV concept vehicle was created in Chrysler LLC's Advance Interior Design Studio. The primary goal of this studio is to improve the quality and fit and finish on all future Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep® vehicles. By using state-of-the-art design software and computer modeling processes, interior designers can achieve quality and fit and finish objectives faster than ever before. Implementation of the Advance Interior Design Studio has enabled the company to engage suppliers up to a year earlier, allowing more time for customer research, feature approval and material selection. The Advance Interior Design Studio features a dedicated, customer-focused, interior-centric team of designers and engineers.

ENVI Range-extended Electric Vehicle Technology
The Chrysler 200C EV concept is the newest Chrysler ENVI electric-drive vehicle.
Utilizing ENVI's Range-extended Electric Vehicle technology, the Chrysler 200C EV concept boasts clean, quiet elegance and seamless acceleration, underscoring the engaging driving experience of the Chrysler brand.
Capable of driving up to 40 miles on battery-only power - using zero gasoline and producing zero tailpipe emissions - the 200C EV uses a small gasoline engine and integrated electric generator that produces electricity to extend the driving range to 400 miles.

2009 Chrysler GEM Peapod

2011-12-23T00:05:00.000-08:00

Clean and green transportation gets a new look and feel as GEM, a Chrysler LLC company, introduces the next generation of clean, gas-free and emission-free, battery electric vehicles.
The vehicle's innovative, groundbreaking design, with its striking pod-like shape and sleek lines, reflects the environmentally friendly nature that has been the hallmark of GEM since its founding 10 years ago.
The user-friendly mood of the vehicle, named the GEM Peapod, is enhanced with the newly designed center console that will offer iPod integration, as well as hands-free operation of the customer's iPhone. Other innovations include ergonomic, supportive, mesh seating, which enables air circulation for comfort and uses eco-friendly recycled and recyclable materials.

"We have evolved the GEM design language to better reflect its eco-friendly performance and its upbeat, positive image," said Peter Arnell, Chrysler LLC's Chief Innovation Officer who led the design process. "These vehicles use no gasoline and emit no pollutants. So whether it's a trip around the neighborhood or the drive to school or work, the GEM Peapod is the ideal way to contribute to a greener planet, and a healthy lifestyle."
GEM will also get a new name - GreenEcoMobility, Arnell said, signifying the company's goal to redefine environmentally friendly vehicles.
Chrysler will show the styling model for the production 2009 GEM at the company's headquarters Sept. 23, 2008. The re-designed GEM is scheduled for production in 2009.
The Peapod represents the first in a series of product launches that will redefine the future of electric vehicles, said the company's CEO Bruce Coventry.
"With this next generation GEM, we will broaden the market for this clean, emission-free technology," Coventry said.

In addition to the 2009 GEM Peapod neighborhood electric vehicle, Coventry said, GEM has plans to market a new light-duty, battery electric commercial truck and a larger city electric vehicle, with more range and performance. These vehicles are scheduled for production within the next year, he said.
Today's GEM is the nation's No. 1 zero-emission electric vehicle, with 38,000 produced and in use. GEM vehicles are used in settings such as city centers, planned communities, military bases, college campuses, corporate and commercial centers, and city, state and national parks.
"Over the past decade, GEM has established itself as the nation's leading battery-powered, pure electric vehicle," said GEM President and COO Rick Kasper. "We have done that by responding to the needs of our customers for safety, utility, versatility and performance in environmentally friendly vehicles."

GEM cars are available in six models: two-, four- and six-passenger cars and three utility vehicles. GEM neighborhood electric vehicles have a top speed of 25 miles per hour, a range of up to 30 miles per charge (battery charge is extended through use of regenerative braking) and are street legal in more than 40 states. The vehicles can be recharged anytime, anywhere with a standard 110-volt outlet. Recharge time is approximately six to eight hours.
By replacing conventional vehicles, GEM vehicles can reduce overall emissions of pollutants, particularly during short trips when conventional vehicles create the most tailpipe emissions. GEM vehicles have been driven a combined 200 million miles and averted more than 150 tons of pollutants from reaching the air, while saving 10 million gallons of gasoline.

2011 Chrysler 200

2011-11-23T07:15:00.000-08:00

Chrysler introduces the new Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan. Offering consumers exceptional craftsmanship inside and out, a refined and spirited driving experience, innovative technology, an abundance of standard safety features and an extraordinary level of standard content, the 2011 Chrysler 200 is an exciting alternative for customers that want style and substance, all at a surprising value.
Virtually every system in the sedan is new or upgraded for 2011, giving the Chrysler 200 its own identity and space in the highly competitive mid-size sedan segment. Exterior and sheet metal upgrades include: front and rear fascias and fenders, grille featuring the new Chrysler brand winged badge, new hood, LED positioning light pipe in front headlamps, rear deck lid and exterior mirrors, new projector headlamps and fog lamps, new LED taillamps and an LED center high-mounted stoplight.

"Today's customer is smarter and they expect their vehicle to be smart as well. They want beauty coupled with substance," said Olivier Francois, President and CEO — Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "The new Chrysler 200 delivers reliability, capability, comfort, safety, fuel efficiency and style - beauty and substance."
The new 2011 Chrysler 200 provides drivers an agile, confident, handling performance in all driving situations, whether it's commuting to work, a weekend adventure on twisty roads or going out with family and friends. Virtually every part of the suspension has been retuned or redesigned for 2011, including 26 of 30 suspension bushings. The suspension geometry was completely re-engineered. The track is an inch wider, tire width has been increased from 215 to 225 mm and the Chrysler 200 has been lowered 12 mm in the front and 6 mm in the rear for a lower, wider, more substantial stance.

Customers will drive with confidence in the Chrysler 200 and experience less body roll, reduced vehicle shake on uneven road surfaces, improved isolation on rough roads, better steering precision, response and feel and increased grip with new premium tires.
A new and improved powertrain lineup also contributes to the new 200 sedan's driving experience. The 2011 Chrysler 200 is offered with the proven 2.4-liter World Gas Engine, which has been recalibrated and is now available mated to a new six-speed transmission, for an exceptionally fun and fuel efficient driving experience. The new 200 sedan powered by the 2.4-liter I-4 engine produces 173 horsepower and 166 lb.-ft. of torque. The available new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine provides an even more exhilarating driving experience that offers customers the best of both worlds - best-in-class V-6 horsepower and exceptional fuel economy. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, and is mated to the 62TE six-speed transmission. For the value conscious consumer, the 2.4-liter World Gas Engine also is available mated to the proven four-speed automatic transmission.

Cabin quietness has been upgraded, resulting in one of the quietest cabins in the segment, and allowing passengers to enjoy their conversations, largely devoid of outside noise. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) were reduced and 45 new sound deadening treatments were added, including an acoustic glass windshield, laminated side glass usually only found in higher priced vehicles, new sound absorption materials throughout the vehicle and a new three-point engine mount system for the 2.4-liter World Gas Engine, for improved sound and isolation.
New sheet metal and exterior design highlights clean surfaces and sleek lines. The new, more sculpted front features the new distinctive Chrysler brand grille and the new signature Chrysler brand winged badge. A new hood, new front fascia, new projector headlamps and projector beam fog lamps round out the new face of the Chrysler 200. A new for 2011 rear deck lid, rear fascia, exterior mirrors, new LED taillamps and an LED center high-mounted stoplight completes the transformation.

With the all-new interior for 2011, customers will step into a level of craftsmanship, content and comfort that is world-class. The all-new instrument panel, bezels, gauge face and new Chrysler steering wheel transform the driver's seat into an elegant atmosphere. Upgraded seats with a new design that incorporates more cushion material and revised spring geometry, as well as new leather and cloth seating materials, envelop the driver and passenger. Designers developed the new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan with new "soft touch" armrests and instrument panel and new, premium interior finishes for touch points that are not only pleasing to the touch, but also to the eye. New heating and cooling outlets in the instrument panel offer improved design and functionality and complete the beautifully detailed interior.
The new Chrysler 200 offers customers innovative features to keep them connected and make the drive something to look forward to. Features include new ambient interior lighting and a new Chrysler brand steering wheel with integrated controls that allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, handsfree phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel. Drivers stay connected with an available media center with voice command that is easy to use and offers radio, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, a 30 gigabyte hard drive, iPod® connectivity, streaming music capability and a navigation system with SIRIUS Travel Link, which provides real-time information.

An abundance of standard safety and security features in the new 2011 Chrysler 200 offer consumers peace of mind at a price they can afford. The 200 sedan's standard safety features include: standard advanced multi-stage front passenger air bags, active head restraints, electronic stability control (ESC), front seat side air bags, side curtain air bags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic traction control, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat anchor system and available Uconnect® voice command.
The 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan is available in four different configurations in the United States. The Chrysler 200 LX, 200 Touring, 200 Limited and 200 S (late availability) models are packed with style, innovative features and a dynamic driving experience at a surprising value.

The standard mid-size sedan segment is the largest vehicle segment in the United States, with more than 1.6 million vehicles sold in 2009. The new 2011 Chrysler 200 is uniquely positioned as an exciting alternative for customers that want style and substance, all at a surprising value.
The 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan is available in the following exterior colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat, White Gold Clear Coat, Stone White Clear Coat, Bright White Pearl Coat, Sapphire Crystal Metallic Clear Coat (late availability) or Black.

2011 Chrysler 200 S

2011-11-23T07:06:00.000-08:00

The new Chrysler 200 series vehicles provide customers elegant, well-crafted mid-size vehicles with an extraordinary level of standard content and an exhilarating driving experience. From the ground up, the new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan and convertible have been redesigned and upgraded to deliver great American design and engineering, with a value proposition that exceeds expectations.
Now, with the introduction of the S models, Chrysler expands the lineup, offering customers production vehicles with a one-of-a-kind style. The S models have the same DNA as the traditional models, but with an entirely different appearance and attitude. While the traditional Chrysler models make a style and luxury statement, the S models create a different path through the Chrysler brand, taking style in a whole new direction, with a completely different attitude.
"The New York International Auto Show is the perfect place to debut the new 2011 Chrysler 200 S sedan and Chrysler 200 S convertible models," said Olivier Francois, President and CEO, Chrysler Brand - Chrysler Group LLC. "These vehicles are built with an unmistakable attitude and a signature style; and you could say the same of New York itself. The attitude may be 'Imported from Detroit,' but it's definitely at home on Park Avenue."

Chrysler 200 S Sedan
With an elegant style, refined ride and handling characteristics, an exquisitely-crafted interior, a new powertrain and an abundance of standard safety features, the Chrysler 200 sedan is beautifully inspired and a remarkable value. The Chrysler 200 provides drivers a little more style and elegance in segment traditionally known for its "sea of sameness."
The new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan S model brings a distinct style with a little bit of attitude for the customer that wants to express their individual style, at a price that makes sense.
Distinctive exterior design elements exclusive to the S model include a unique front grille with an S model-only Chrysler winged badge with a black background, body color mirrors and door handles, black background headlamps for a little extra attitude, distinctive 18-in. aluminum wheels with dark painted pockets and "S" badging.

The interior exclusive design features include a perforated leather steering wheel; leather, heated front seats with Digital suede inserts and an embroidered "S" on the front head rests; suede door trim bolsters; a black headliner and a standard Boston Acoustic sound system with a 276-watt CD/DVD/MP3/30 gigabyte hard drive media center with Uconnect® voice command.
The new 2011 Chrysler 200 provides drivers an agile, confident, handling performance in all driving situations, whether it's commuting to work, a weekend adventure on twisty roads or going out with family and friends. Virtually every part of the suspension has been re-engineered or redesigned for 2011, including 26 of 30 suspension bushings. The suspension geometry was completely re-engineered. The track is an inch wider, tire width has been increased from 215 to 225 mm and the Chrysler 200 has been lowered 12 mm in the front and 6 mm in the rear for a lower, wider, more substantial stance.
Customers will drive with confidence in the Chrysler 200 and experience less body roll, reduced vehicle shake on uneven road surfaces, improved isolation on rough roads, better steering precision, response and feel and increased grip with new premium tires.

The 2011 Chrysler 200 S sedan is powered by the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which produces a best-in-class horsepower rating of 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, but still achieves an exceptional 29 miles per gallon EPA highway fuel economy rating The 3.6-liter Pentastar engine is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transaxle.
Cabin quietness has been upgraded, resulting in one of the quietest cabins in the segment, and allowing passengers to enjoy their conversations, largely devoid of outside noise. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) were reduced and 45 new sound deadening treatments were added, including an acoustic glass windshield, laminated side glass usually only found in higher priced vehicles and new sound absorption materials throughout the vehicle.

An abundance of standard safety and security features in every 2011 Chrysler 200 model offer consumers peace of mind at a price they can afford. The 200 sedan's standard safety features include: standard advanced multi-stage front passenger air bags, active head restraints, electronic stability control (ESC), front seat side air bags, side curtain air bags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic traction control, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat anchor system and available Uconnect® voice command. The 2011 Chrysler 200 is Insurance Institute for Highway Safety "Top Safety Pick."
The 2011 Chrysler 200 S has a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $26,790 (including $750 destination).
Chrysler 200 S model sedans are available to order now and will begin arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in the second quarter of 2011.

Chrysler 200 S Convertible
The new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible offers consumers an open-air driving experience featuring elegant craftsmanship inside and out, a fun, yet refined driving experience, innovative technology, an abundance of standard safety features and an extraordinary level of standard content. The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible is an exciting alternative for customers who want the benefits of a coupe and the true open-air freedom of a convertible, all at a surprising value.
Redesigned and re-engineered for 2011, the Chrysler 200 Convertible is unique in the standard specialty segment as a true mid-sized convertible that comfortably seats 4 adults and has enough room in the trunk, even when the power top is dropped. Consumers can choose from two automatically latching tops, a body-color painted steel, retractable hard top, or a cloth soft top, both of which can drop with the press of a button on the key fob.
The new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan S model brings a distinct style with a little bit of attitude for the customer that wants to express their individual style, at a price that makes sense.

Distinctive exterior design elements exclusive to the S model include a unique front grille with an S model-only Chrysler winged badge with a black background, body color mirrors and door handles, black background headlamps for a little extra attitude, distinctive 18-in. aluminum wheels with dark painted pockets and "S" badging.
The interior exclusive design features include a perforated leather steering wheel; leather, heated front seats with Digital suede inserts and an embroidered "S" on the front head rests; silver accent thread and a standard Boston Acoustic sound system with a 276-watt CD/DVD/MP3/30 gigabyte hard drive media center.
The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible models provide drivers a fun, confident, handling performance in all driving situations, whether it's commuting to work or a weekend adventure on scenic roads. Virtually every part of the suspension has been retuned or redesigned for 2011, including 22 of 28 suspension bushings. The suspension geometry was completely re-engineered. The track is an inch wider, tire width has been increased from 215 to 225 mm and the Chrysler 200 has been lowered 12 mm in the front and 6 mm in the rear for a lower, wider, more substantial stance.

Customers will drive with confidence in the Chrysler 200 Convertible and experience less body roll, reduced vehicle shake on uneven road surfaces, improved isolation on rough roads, better steering precision, response and feel and increased grip with new premium tires.
The 2011 Chrysler S Convertible is powered by the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which produces a 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, but still achieves an exceptional 29 miles per gallon EPA highway fuel economy rating The 3.6-liter Pentastar engine is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transaxle.
With every available safety and security feature standard in the new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible, consumers receive peace of mind at a price they can afford. The 200 Convertible's standard safety features include: advanced multi-stage front passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, electronic stability control (ESC) with brake assist and traction control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), Brake Override, active front-seat head restraints, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat anchor system, remote keyless illuminated entry, SentryKey engine immobilizer and security alarm.

2011 Chrysler 300

2011-11-23T06:58:00.000-08:00

Delivering the stylistic distinction, technological innovation, premium E-segment sedan features and quality at a legendary value, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan made its world premiere at the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), writing a new chapter in the brand's legendary history, while setting a new course for the American brand.
"The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 is an icon of American ingenuity and symbolizes the greatness Detroit-designed vehicles offer the streets, highways and boulevards of the world," said Olivier Francois, President and CEO - Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "From its premium materials, state-of-the-art connectivity features, new chassis architecture and best-in-class power, the all-new Chrysler 300 embodies the brand's new attitude in every detail. And to ensure our all-new Chrysler flagship delivers more than unmistakably bold and powerful American style to our customers, the Chrysler 300 team benchmarked the craftsmanship, technology and refinement of the segment's best sedans to deliver a new world-class quality and performance symbol at an attainable price."
The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan embodies the essence of the new Chrysler brand: delivering passion for design, people and the environment through expressive design, state-of-the-art connectivity and world-class levels of quality and efficiency.

A Collaboration of Detroit Style With World-class Craftsmanship
With more than 55 years of elegant proportions and head-turning style, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 delivers contemporary styling with design details unexpected in the segment. At the front, an all-new grille features seven deeply sculpted horizontal blades that express precision. The liquid-chrome finish of the blades and the new Chrysler wing badge provide a unique contrast against the beautifully drawn bright-chromed grille surround. Illuminating the road ahead are signature "key slot" headlamps with a scalloped lower edge. Inside, bi-functional projector headlamps are nestled next to LED-illuminated daytime running lamps, which together form a "C" shape for unmistakable on-road presence.
The profile of the all-new Chrysler 300 features the distinctive proportions of its predecessor with added design refinement for a more tailored appearance. Dramatic front-fender forms rise above the sculpted hood and are echoed by rear-quarter forms, which rise above the deck lid and travel down the vertical taillamps for an unmistakably bold signature silhouette. For improved aerodynamics and visibility, the all-new Chrysler luxury flagship's windshield has been raked back 3 inches, while rolled-framed doors with thinner pillars improve outward visibility by 15 percent.
Elevating the all-new Chrysler 300 sedan's rear-view presence is an integrated deck-lid lip spoiler with the new Chrysler wing badge proudly centered below. Jewel-like rear taillamps feature harmonious LED illumination, while signature "light pipes" illuminate for an alluring nighttime appearance. Straddling the vertical lamps, Chrysler 300 sedan's rear fascia integrates a chrome appliqué that seamlessly connects the taillamp elements while emphasizing the road-holding stature of the flagship sedan. Hinting at the flagship sedan's performance are two fascia-mounted oval dual exhaust tips.

Luxurious Environment with Premium Materials and Best-in-class Comfort
Combining world-class accommodations with American style, the all-new Chrysler 300 sedan's interior delivers expressive style, authentic materials, passenger comfort features and precise fit and finish. Substantial interior upgrades on the all-new Chrysler 300 consist of soft touch materials, premium interior trim, available heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats, and real wood appliqués on the instrument panel, doors, center console and steering wheel.
Designed to exude a luxurious environment, the 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan features cast-skin instrument and door panels with three-dimensional dual gloss graining for a premium appearance and suppleness. Bright chrome contrasted with satin chrome accents give the Chrysler flagship sedan the appearance of milled aluminum. For added detail, a new instrument cluster features two large gauge faces with Sapphire Blue illumination and chrome ring accents. Providing a premium and contemporary environment is an all-new Sapphire Blue LED-illuminated ambient interior lighting.
Delivering best-in-class comfort, all-new seats were engineered with premium architecture and include a serpentine (S-shaped) spring suspension, all-new front-seat backs with four-way lumbar system that actuates up/down and fore/aft, and variable density foams applied in the lower seat, seat back, and bolsters for enhanced comfort "tuning."

Designed for Passionate Drivers Who Value Substance and Individuality
Redesigned from the ground up, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 is the freshest entry in the U.S. standard full-size vehicle segment. While the standard full-size segment share has consistently held around 4 percent for the last 3 calendar years, the all-new Chrysler 300 series sedans will re-ignite the segment delivering elegant style, grand-touring performance, best-in-class seat comfort and the precision and quality of the world's best E-segment luxury sedans at an attainable value.
Buyers of the 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan are inspired by thoughtful innovation, are passionate about driving and are interested to express their creativity and distinct personality through new experiences. The all-new Chrysler flagship sedan meets their demands by combining superior styling, confident handling, and the craftsmanship, premium details and technology that reinforce driving as a fun and pleasurable experience.
All-new 2011 Chrysler 300 series sedans are available in the United States in four highly equipped models: Chrysler 300, 300 Limited, 300C and 300C AWD. In addition, the Luxury and SafetyTec Groups provide customers with high-value content and innovative technology directly targeted for their specific needs.

Engineered with The Characteristics to Take on the World's Best
Engineered and executed to deliver a world-class luxury sedan experience, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan's world-class body structure and chassis deliver a level of quality, capability and refinement that rival the best E-segment competitors from Europe, Asia and North America.
Maximizing its new ultra-rigid structural design, the all-new Chrysler 300 features quietness among the best in the segment. The all-new Chrysler flagship's unibody packages material and structural design improvements, including two premium-composite underbody panels that provide more than eight feet of acoustic insulation, dual-pane acoustic windshield and front-door side glass, body-cavity silencing foam, under-flush rolled-framed doors with triple seals and acoustic wheel-well liners, all helping to absorb road noise and quiet the cabin.
The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 features Chrysler Group's new second generation E-segment architecture with redesigned front- and rear-suspension geometry delivering world-class handling, and all-new premium suspension hardware for world-class refinement. The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan's suspension delivers the grand-touring performance expected from premium European luxury sedans, to make this all-new American flagship one of the best driving sedans in the world.
Taking its new second-generation E-segment architecture further, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C AWD delivers precise all-weather handling, world-class refinement and a lowered ride height for a more tailored appearance. The all-new Chrysler 300C AWD features a 0.5-inch (13 mm) tighter tire-to-fender fitment, a 0.15-inch (4 mm) lowered overall ride height and larger 19-inch wheels with wider P235/55R19 all-season performance tires.

Best-in-class 292 Horsepower with All-new Aluminum 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 Engine
Engineered to provide exceptional in-town and highway efficiency and performance, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 and 300 Limited models feature the newest powertrain from the automaker - the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine. When compared to the previous V-6 engines, fuel economy is improved by up to 8 percent with EPA-ratings of 18 city /27 highway.
Delivering 292 horsepower (up 63 percent) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (up 36 percent) compared with the previous 2.7-liter entry-level engine, the new Pentastar V-6 engine also produces 42 more horsepower (up 16 percent), and 10 lb.-ft. more torque compared to the 3.5-liter V-6.

World-class Power and Efficiency with 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 Engine and its Fuel Saver Technology
Performance has been a hallmark of the "letter series" Chrysler 300 models since 1955, and the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C builds upon that legacy with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine delivering 363 horsepower, 0-60 mph performance in less than 6 seconds and up to 25 highway mpg. In addition, the engine's innovative Fuel Saver Technology allows for seamless transition between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. When running in four-cylinder fuel saver mode, the engine delivers up to 20 percent improved fuel efficiency.

Most Advanced All-wheel Drive (AWD) System in the E-Segment
The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C AWD model features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system to improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. The Chrysler 300C AWD sedan's innovative AWD system seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and AWD with no driver intervention. When AWD is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding fun-to-drive performance and handling inherent in RWD vehicles.

World-class Precision, Execution and Quality Deliver Long-term Performance and Refinement
Chrysler's commitment to providing customers with a new level of quality and craftsmanship started at the very beginning of the 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan's development.
The Chrysler 300 sedans were benchmarked against best-in-class vehicles from Europe, Asia and North America to ensure world-class refinement for attributes such as material quality, interior quietness, seat comfort, and smooth and responsive handling characteristics. Chrysler engineers evaluated more than 320 physical characteristics of benchmark vehicles - including aspirational vehicles priced tens of thousands of dollars more than the all-new Chrysler 300 series sedans.
The 2011 Chrysler 300 was one of the first Chrysler Group vehicles to be evaluated by the company's Perceived Quality team at the digital design phase. The Perceived Quality team evaluates vehicles from the perspective of the most discriminating customer and works with designers and engineers to enhance the fit-and-finish, surface quality, material options and even the sound quality of moveable parts like doors and storage bins.
Beginning with the all-new vehicles developed for the 2011 model year, Chrysler Group has increased the number of reliability testing miles by 50 percent. Chrysler engineers tested the 300 series sedans for more than 7 million miles during its reliability and durability evaluation in the company's scientific labs, at the proving grounds and on public roads in various climates.

State-of-the-art Connectivity with Segment's Largest Touchscreen Infotainment Center
The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan's Uconnect® Touch integrates world-class infotainment and convenience technologies to keep passengers connected, comfortable and secure.
From touchscreen navigation to dual-zone climate controls, to the ability to check fuel prices and personalize convenience features, Uconnect Touch makes life in the all-new Chrysler flagship sedan an excellent experience for the driver and passengers. Chrysler 300 and 300 Limited models come standard with the Uconnect Touch 8.4 model, featuring easy-to-use controls to provide class-leading technology. With its massive 8.4-inch touchscreen display and user-friendly touch-key categories, information on the Uconnect Touch is clearly displayed and connecting and controlling personal mobile devices is simple.
The premium Uconnect Touch 8.4N model is available on the Chrysler 300 Limited and standard on the Chrysler 300C and 300C AWD models and includes more customer-convenient amenities than ever before, including the integration of segment-leading Garmin® navigation and SIRIUS Travel Link with real-time fuel prices, movie listings, sports updates and weather.

All-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Offers More Than 70 Advanced Safety and Security Features
The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 features more than 70 safety and security features, including standard Keyless Enter-N-Go and electronic stability control (ESC) with segment-exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance.
Chrysler brand's signature SafetyTec Group is available on the 2011 Chrysler 300 Limited, 300C and 300C AWD models and packages many first-time-available features including adaptive-forward lighting (AFL), high-intensity discharge (HID) projector high and low-beams with automatic headlamp leveling, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with adaptive-cruise control (ACC), Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Path (RCP) detection, ParkSense® front and rear park assist system, LED-illuminated rear fog lamps, exterior mirrors with supplemental turn signals and approach lamp (300 Limited adds HomeLink universal transceiver, rain-sensing wipers and SmartBeam® headlamps to the package group).
In addition, standard front-row reactive head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags, driver's knee bag and standard front seat-mounted side-thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

World-class Manufacturing (WCM) Transforms Brampton to Launch the All-new Chrysler 300 Sedans
For the Brampton plant, the launch of the Chrysler brand's all-new flagship sedan had to be nothing less than world class.
In preparation for the launch of the Chrysler 300 series sedans, employees at Chrysler Group LLC's Brampton Assembly Plant, located outside of Toronto, began transforming the facility as part of World Class Manufacturing (WCM), an extensive and thorough process to restore all facilities to their original and maximum functionality.
While Chrysler Group implemented manufacturing programs in the past, what makes WCM different is that it fully engages people in eliminating waste and empowers them to take ownership of the process.
To further improve the quality of the all-new Chrysler 300 sedans, a new Metrology Center was installed at Brampton. Used throughout the Fiat manufacturing system, the $20 million, 35,000 square-foot facility reflects the company's heightened dedication to quality. Brampton joins Jefferson North Assembly Plant as one of the first Chrysler Group facilities and one of only a few Canadian automotive manufacturing facilities to utilize such technology.
The Metrology Center employs more than 30 people, who are responsible for measurement and validation of the body geometry. The tools within the Metrology Center are used to verify the capability of the vehicle's entire sheet metal structure to the smallest of tolerances, as small as a human hair. The aim is to identify possible deviations between the product and the process.

2011 Chrysler Town and Country

2011-11-23T06:39:00.000-08:00

The new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country minivan delivers great American design, innovative technology, unparalleled functionality and all the standard safety features a family aspires to have in a vehicle, at a surprising value.
For 2011, virtually every customer touch point was redesigned or re-engineered. From a suspension redesign that delivers an exhilarating driving performance, to the new, exquisitely-crafted interior cabin with clever features a family appreciates, to the beautifully sleek new exterior design, thoughtful innovation was engineered in every aspect of the new Chrysler Town & Country.
"I am very proud of the new Chrysler Town & Country; it's the first vehicle to wear our new badge - our new wings. Which makes sense because the Town & Country is packed with 'firsts'," said Olivier Francois, President and CEO - Chrysler Brand. "We have improved the suspension from corner to corner, bested the power and fuel economy with the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and, of course, upgraded the interior throughout."

Chrysler Group invented the modern minivan in 1983 with the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager. The first luxury minivan, the Chrysler Town & Country, debuted in 1989. Seventy-five minivan-first innovations and 13 million minivan sales later, the company still leads the way with the best, most innovative vehicle to move people and things.
Chrysler Group continues its industry-leading innovation in the minivan segment with minivan-first features for 2011 including a heated steering wheel, new Stow 'n Place™ roof rack system that allows roof bows to be stored in the rails when not in use, a new, integrated, super center console for first- and second-row passengers, and new fuel economizer mode that helps the driver maximize fuel efficiency.
The new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country offers more than 40 standard safety, security and technology features, providing customers the safety they expect to ensure peace of mind when traveling. Standard safety features include new front seat-mounted air bags, a new driver-side inflatable knee blocker, advanced multistage driver and front passenger air bags, side-curtain air bags for all three rows, electronic stability control, including Brake Assist and all-speed traction control, rain-sensitive windshield wipers, ParkSense® rear park assist system, ParkView® rear backup camera, Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection.

The Chrysler Town & Country minivan has been refreshed for 2011 with a sleek, elegant exterior design. The new "face of Chrysler" starts with a new front fascia and grille inspired by the all-new 300 and shared across all the new Chrysler brand vehicles. The Town & Country also is the first vehicle to wear the new Chrysler brand winged badge. A new hood, and projector-style front fog lamps round out the exterior upgrades to the front, setting the expectation of elegance when a customer first spots the vehicle. Also new for 2011 is the rear liftgate with curved back glass, body-color rear spoiler, fascia and liftgate scuff pad with bright stripe, rear light bar and new LED taillamps. A chrome molding that runs across the entire length of the vehicle connects to the bodyside molding to pull the whole package together.
The new world-class interior of the 2011 Chrysler Town & Country minivan is beautifully crafted with high-quality materials that are soft to the touch, and offers tech-savvy entertainment features and smart storage and seating options, including new, more comfortable Stow 'n Go® seating with one-touch fold-down function. The Uconnect® suite of technologies offer touchscreen and voice command for convenient control of multiple media sources and outputs, navigation and handsfree phone. Available Uconnect Web transforms the Town & Country into a "hot spot" to deliver the internet directly to the minivan for instant access to web sites, email and more. Dual DVD entertainment system, SIRIUS satellite radio, SIRIUS Travel Link and SIRIUS Backseat TV™ make the Chrysler Town & Country the ultimate family vehicle.

A new, more luxurious Quad seating option is available for first- and second-row passengers in 2011. The new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country continues to be the best choice for families that want a vehicle with style and value.
A sleek, new, one-piece instrument panel is crafted with premium materials and is more intuitive for the customer with improved ergonomics and larger, beautifully redesigned gauges. The new center stack console has been redesigned with the customer in mind, offering better ergonomics with premium materials and a pleasing appearance. An available new super center console provides clever functionality and storage for CDs, DVDs, notepad and wallet and integrated power outlets, as well as easy driver/passenger access with a pass-through storage space for larger items, like a purse. Trim rings in the console glow an ambient blue-green color, which allows passengers to find the items they are looking for at night. New, premium seating materials and new soft touch door trim panels offer passengers the comforts of home. There's a new Chrysler brand steering wheel with integrated controls for audio, navigation and speed control; a new, improved, gated shifter that shifts smoothly into gear; a minivan-first heated steering wheel option; more than 40 standard safety and technology features; and the best storage and functionality in the segment providing customers value without compromise.
The new Chrysler Town & Country minivan suspension receives major upgrades for the 2011 model year resulting in drivers enjoying an agile, confident, exhilarating driving experience. Almost every system in the suspension was re-engineered, retuned or redesigned by Chrysler engineers, with an emphasis on improving the driver's experience during routine handling and emergency maneuvers, making the ride more comfortable, improving braking and creating a quieter cabin. In addition to the redesigned suspension, the new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country sports new, premium tires, contributing to improved grip and ride comfort. The new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country delivers families a fun driving experience, no matter if the drive is the neighborhood carpool, a family vacation or an exhilarating adventure on twisty roads.

For 2011, a new powertrain delivers best-in-class horsepower without sacrificing fuel efficiency. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine produces 283 horsepower, or 86 more horsepower than the outgoing 3.8-liter V-6 engine, and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. The Pentastar V-6 is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transmission. Even with the added horsepower, the 2011 Chrysler Town & Country is expected to maintain an excellent EPA Fuel economy rating. A new fuel economizer mode helps the driver maximize fuel efficiency and new premium, lower-rolling resistance tires and reductions in brake caliper and rear bearing drag make great fuel economy possible. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine simplifies vehicle complexity by replacing three V-6 engines that were available in the outgoing model lineup, the 3.3-liter V-6, the 3.8-liter V-6 and the 4.0-liter V-6.
With exquisite styling, a beautifully crafted interior, more than 40 standard safety and technology features, smart, cutting-edge entertainment features and clever seating and storage options, the new Chrysler Town & Country delivers on the Chrysler promise to provide every owner a vehicle that satisfies their dreams.

The new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country will appeal to both generation X professionals with two or more children in their household and baby boomers who have no children in the household. Safety and value are two of the primary reasons for purchase, though this customer also needs the functionality and space to ease the challenges of family life.
The 2011 Chrysler Town & Country is available in the United States in three different models: the Chrysler Town & Country Touring, Town & Country Touring L and Town & Country Limited. These models provide customers exquisite innovation, abundant standard safety features and the versatility they need, all at a surprising value.
The 2011 Chrysler Town & Country is available in eight exterior colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Stone White Clear Coat, White Gold Clear Coat, Sapphire Crystal Metallic Clear Coat (late availability) and Dark Charcoal (late availability).

2012 Chrysler Delta

2011-11-23T06:26:00.000-08:00

The new Chrysler Delta, which is now on sale in the UK, is all about adding value to people's lives. It offers family saloon space in a compact hatchback body. It introduces executive car equipment to a wide market. It features sophisticated technologies that are entirely new to this size of car. And it presents all this at prices, starting at just £16,695 OTR, that equal or undercut many less gifted rivals.
With its sophisticated appearance, sumptuous interior and four state-of-the-art engines, the Delta is an accomplished re-entry into the C segment for Chrysler. On sale here now, it provides the sort of interior space expected from a far larger vehicle. Yet a host of all-new electronic driver aids ensures that the Delta is satisfying to drive as well as being very comfortable for both front and rear seat passengers.
Along with its smaller sister, the new Chrysler Ypsilon, Delta marks the resurgence of Chrysler Group LLC, which was formed in 2009 as a strategic alliance with Fiat. Chrysler's portfolio contains some of Europe's most recognisable vehicles, including the 300C saloon and top-selling Grand Voyager MPV. Now with the help of Fiat's experience and knowledge in the small and medium-sized car sectors, Chrysler can infuse compact, more environmentally friendly models with the luxurious character traits of its bigger cars.

Chrysler brand director Nigel Land says: "People know us for large vehicles such as the Grand Voyager and 300C. We are transferring the values that lie behind those cars to the B and C segments. We are not going for high volumes. We want to be the choice for people who are seeking a credible alternative to traditional segment offerings.
"The Delta will bring D-segment standards of space and quality to the C-segment. This is just the start of our journey as we re-launch the Chrysler brand in the UK. We are now starting to sell cars that are relevant to a more mainstream market. They'll have all the quality features you would expect from a large Chrysler, integrated into very stylish European designed interiors."
The Delta has already made a promising start, with CAP predicting strong residual values. Part of this is down to the expectation that buyers will welcome some of the features it introduces to the family hatchback sector. The rear seat slides for maximum versatility and when it's in its rear position there is a class-leading 1010mm of leg room in the back. Passengers can recline the seat back up to 25 degrees for extra comfort. And there are a host of 'large car' technologies available, such as Magic Parking, Lane Departure Control and Blue&Me™.

The theme of versatility embues the entire Chrysler Delta range. There are four trim levels: S, SE, SR and Limited. There are four engines too, starting with a lively petrol 1.4-litre TurboJet and a more powerful 140bhp 1.4-litre that uses Fiat's ground-breaking MultiAir technology. These are supplemented by a pair of potent yet economical diesels, in 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre capacities, which benefit from second generation MultiJet technology. All models feature six-speed gearboxes with a semi-automatic version available on the 1.6 SE MultiJet.
Standard equipment is satisfyingly high. Even the range-starting S model offers a radio/CD with MP3 compatibility, front foglamps with cornering function, remote keyless entry, manual air-conditioning and power windows front and rear. And the range-topping Limited model comes with Blue&Me™, a Navigation system, headlamps with dusk sensors, reclining rear seats and leather upholstery.
Safety comes as standard throughout the Delta range, so all models are equipped with Daytime Running Lights (DRL), six airbags, three-point safety belts for all five seats, ABS anti-lock braking with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Holder and Anti Slip Regulation traction control. It also incorporates Linearisation Torque Feedback (LTF), Torque Transfer Control (TTC) and Drive Steering Torque (DST), all of which are designed to improve handling.

STRIKINGLY SOPHISTICATED
Drivers looking to make their mark without spending a small fortune will appreciate the new Chrysler Delta. Handsome, dynamic and sophisticated, the striking modern design ensures it stands proud of more conservative rivals, and yet is very competitively positioned.
At the front, high tech projector style headlamps are instantly recognisable because they feature bright LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) as standard equipment. Front fog lamps with cornering function also come with every model and sit either side of a front air intake designed to give the Delta a sporty look. Combined with Chrysler's newly styled shield grille and neatly sculpted bonnet, it makes for a stylish alternative to the mainstream.
With a high waistline rising to the rear, the Delta has an equally sporty stance from the side, helped by the standard rear spoiler that blends into the rear window. A sophisticated appearance at the back is set off by a rear window that has no surrounds and is flanked by curved, vertical LED tail lights.

SPACIOUS TRAVEL
The Chrysler Delta has been developed to offer driver and passengers the levels of on-board comfort they might expect from a much larger, much more expensive car.
The first thing that will strike anyone slipping inside the Delta is the sheer space. In size terms, with its 2700mm wheelbase and 4520mm overall length it sits at the larger end of the C segment. But inside it has the kind of room you're more likely to find in a D or even E segment model.
Chrysler has employed techniques usually found in MPVs to make this space as flexible as possible. Unusually for this sector, the rear bench slides backwards and forwards (not on Limited versions). It means owners can choose to increase boot space, if for example they have small children in the rear seats, or give rear seat passengers limousine levels of leg room.

With the back seats in their forward position the Chrysler Delta still offers rear passengers a remarkable 930mm of leg room. With the rear seats in their most forward position, the boot offers 465 litres. And even when the backrest is as far back as it'll go there's still a healthy 380 litres. The boot also features a small space under the floor. This provides a hidden compartment for valuables and means that when the seats are folded down, the 1190 litres of space has a continuous flat floor.
The rear seats don't just slide, they recline 25 degrees backwards too, offering passengers impressive comfort options. This is further emphasised by the quality of the fabrics used inside, which present owners with the sort of high-class materials and build quality they'll be more used to in much more expensive models. This should appeal to buyers who are downsizing, one of Chrysler's target markets.
Materials such as leather and Alcantara are used extensively, while on lower trim levels the dashboard is covered with Benova, a soft premium textile. This is the first time Benova has been used on such an accessible vehicle; until now it's been reserved for prestige brands. On Limited versions the dashboard is covered in Poltrona Frau Leather.

The range-starting S model has premium fabric covered seats while in SE variants they're cloaked in Carbony 3D fabric. This high-tech cloth has a three dimensional effect and features contrasting Alcantara inserts. The SR has Alcanatara with leather inserts, while the top of the range Limited comes with full leather trimmed seats finished with classic piping round the edge for an authentic executive feel.
The dashboard has been designed to feel substantial without being too imposing. Centre console buttons are illuminated by a white light for quick and easy identification. Elsewhere, elements of the cabin are aimed at the driver−such as the centre console, steering wheel and instrument surrounds that are highlighted by a metallic-effect Satin Silver paint.
The sophisticated feel of the Delta's cabin is reinforced by thoughtful detailing throughout. Chrome finishes are used on the door handles, radio, climate control knobs and dashboard. The front seats on SE, SR and Limited models have the new Chrysler logo on the head restraints. The glovebox and grab handles both have the slow sprung return you associate with refined cars. And the roof is lined with a new polyester-based material that reduces cabin noise on the move.

It's not just in comfort terms that the Chrysler Delta has been designed to excel. It's also had safety engineered into it from the ground up. The result is that it's won a European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP) five star crash safety rating. This is thanks to six airbags fitted as standard (front, window and curtain bags on both sides), and five three-point safety belts, with load limiters and pretensioners fitted to the front seats.
In addition to that, the Delta is packed with standard equipment to make driving as safe possible. It comes with ABS anti-lock braking and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) to ensure maximum stopping power is deployed in an emergency situation. Powerful disc brakes are used front and rear, and in an emergency stop the hazard lights are automatically switched on.

WHERE SAFETY, FUN AND COMFORT COMBINE
It's not just the Chrysler Delta's generous level of interior space that has the hallmark of an executive car. Its sleek shape also cloaks the kind of large-car equipment levels that until now haven't been available to drivers buying a mid-sized family hatchback.
Designed to ensure that the Delta tops the class when it comes to comfort, safety and driving dynamics, innovative technology has been used from the very earliest design stages.

Absolute Handling System and Drive Steering Torque
To enable drivers to make the most of their Chrysler Delta, it's been fitted with some pioneering electronic systems to make life at the wheel more enjoyable yet even safer. Prime among these is the Absolute Handling System. This is an amalgamation of various existing technologies such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Holder to ensure perfect hill starts every time, Anti Slip Regulation (ASR) which uses brake and engine control to optimise traction at any time, and MSR which cuts in to ensure engine torque isn't interrupted if a swift down change is needed during a climb.
Where the Absolute Handling System really stands out from the crowd is by encompassing Linearisation Torque Feedback (LTF), Torque Transfer Control (TTC) and Drive Steering Torque (DST) in its suite of skills.
The new DST is an electronic steering system that suggests the moves drivers should carry out to maximise road holding and therefore security. It does this through generating torque at the steering wheel courtesy of a continuous interaction between the electric power steering and the Absolute Handling System which controls the car's dynamics. The DST means that if the car begins to oversteer, the most appropriate manoeuvre to maintain control is 'suggested' to the driver.

The DST also has a Mu-Split Control Function (MCF) which works over surfaces with different levels of grip. This enables automatic countersteering to prevent the vehicle from spinning and reduces braking distance by 10 per cent.
The LTF comes to life when it detects high lateral acceleration. Assuming this to be the result of sporty driving it boosts the steering wheel's resistant torque to improve road feel for the driver, particularly through fast bends.
The Delta also features a new TTC system designed to improve the transfer of torque to the driven wheels. When the driver accelerates through a bend, the brake is constantly modulated on the inner front wheel to increase traction to the loaded outer wheel. By distributing torque between the front-driven wheels in this continuous dynamic manner, it simulates the behaviour of a Limited Slip Differential to give the driver a feeling of improved agility and better traction.

Generously equipped
As well as being packed with systems designed to make it more comfortable, safer and better to drive, the Chrysler Delta features a generous level of standard equipment. Even in standard S guise it comes with a radio/CD with MP3 files compatibility, air conditioning, adjustable steering wheel with audio controls, power windows front and rear, and 'follow me home' headlights that delay switching off.
The SE model features trim enhancements such as a quality finish to the dash and doors, a refrigerated compartment in the cabin, chromed door handles and window surrounds, and 16-inch alloy wheels. The SR builds on that with two-zone automatic climate control, Alcantara leather upholstery, Cruise Control and 17-inch alloy wheels. Options include a panoramic sunroof that takes up 80 per cent of the total roof space, a Bose Audio System and an electrochromatic dimming rear view mirror.

Navigation Versions
Both SE and SR trim levels of the Chrysler Delta also feature Nav versions which come equipped with Blue&Me™ Nav. The result of a joint venture between Fiat and Microsoft, this extremely simple-to-use system allows drivers to manage their music and phone calls easily and safely, using either voice controls or buttons on the steering wheel.

Blue&Me
Delta owners can make calls and play music the way they want with Blue&MeTM, developed in conjunction with Microsoft.
It works via Bluetooth®, so users can safely stay connected while they are driving. The buttons on the steering wheel are easy to use to answer and make a call. There is also voice recognition, allowing calls to be made and connection within seconds.
As soon as users of Blue&MeTM receive an SMS text message, it notifies them. And at the push of a button or by voice command, the message will be read out over the car's speakers.
For playing music, users can plug in their USB stick or MP3 player into the port provided to get their favourite music at their fingertips, or by voice command.
The buttons on the steering wheel allow the driver to skip through albums or tracks which are shown on the dashboard display. Alternatively, voice command technology allows operations via simple voice commands like 'Next', 'Previous' and 'Play'.

Nav
The navigation system has a 6.5" colour screen, voice recognition and SD-card map management. Map updates are possible through the NAVTEQ MAP CARE programme.
Both Blue&MeTM and the Navigation System are standard on Nav versions and are also standard on Limited (*Nav versions are available on the SE and SR trim levels).
As well as this, the range-stopping Limited model is fitted with parking sensors, dusk sensors and a tyre pressure monitoring system. This car's top model status is highlighted by gold exterior 'D' badges replacing silver on the B-pillar, twin chrome exhaust tail pipes and unique 17-inch alloy wheel designs.

Magic Parking
The larger the car, the more difficult finding a parking space can be. Chrysler provides a solution to this problem with its optional Magic Parking.
Pushing a button on the dashboard activates the system which then uses radar sensors mounted in the front and rear bumpers combined with wheel speed sensors to measure the length of empty parking spaces. If it detects one that is free from obstacles and is long enough to accommodate the car, the driver is informed by a beeping noise and a message on the dash. If the driver decides to park in it, the car's computer takes over the steering to carry out the reverse parallel parking manoeuvre. The driver retains control of the accelerator and brake and is permitted a speed of just over 4mph. The driver can deactivate the system at any time, either by turning the wheel, changing out of reverse or pressing the button on the dashboard.

Lane Departure Control
Today's roads are so crowded that another pair of eyes always comes in handy. And that's exactly what the Chrysler Delta's optional Lane Departure Control provides.
The main element of this is a TV camera with image-processing software. This sends data on the geometry of the road in front of the vehicle to the onboard computer enabling the car to 'recognise' road markings. The car's control unit then decides what sort of steering inputs are needed to keep the car within the lines on the road. If these aren't applied and the car starts to drift out of its lane, a motor generates torque on the wheel to tell the driver which direction they need to steer to stay in the lane. It only intervenes if the car starts to change lanes without indicating. The driver can override it at any time.

DELTA FORCE
The Chrysler Delta benefits from Fiat Powertrain Technologies' (FPT) experience of designing, developing and building small, yet highly efficient and powerful award winning engines. Whichever one of the two petrol and two diesel engines buyers choose, they can be sure of optimum fuel economy and impressive torque.

1.4 litre Turbo-Jet − Petrol
Giving a combination of sporty refinement and great value, and developed as part of the FIRE (Fully Integrated and Robotised Engine) range of engines, this power unit guarantees the best possible performance for the lowest possible fuel consumption (44.8mph Combined Cycle), and a 2 year/18,000 mile service interval helps to make this a highly economical choice.

1.4 litre MultiAir
The second engine in the Delta range is a more powerful 140bhp 1.4 litre petrol which utilises FPT's award-winning MultiAir technology.
MultiAir technology works by allowing the direct metering of air stroke-by-stroke, cylinder-by-cylinder through the intake valves without using the throttle. The benefits of this technology are wide ranging: - maximum power is increased by up to 10% because of the adoption of a power-orientated mechanical camshaft profile; and low-end torque is improved by up to 15% through early intake valve closing strategies that allow maximisation of air mass in the cylinder. By eliminating pumping losses, a 10% reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions is achieved over naturally aspirated and turobcharged engines not using MultiAir technology. Optimised valve control strategies during warm-up and internal Exhaust Gas Recirculation (iEGR, which is realised by re-opening the intake valves during the exhaust stroke) mean that substantial HC/CO and NOX reductions can also be achieved.
MultiAir technology combines to allow this engine to exceed the excellent MPG of the 1.4 Turbo-Jet, achieving 49.6mpg (Combined) with significantly higher BHP and torque figures.

1.6 MultiJet 120bhp
The first diesel engine in the Chrysler Delta range is a 120bhp FPT developed MultiJet available to customers purchasing Delta SE and SR versions, with a 6 speed semi-automatic transmission available on SE versions.
MultiJet is another ground-breaking development from FPT which in this latest guise allows eight injections per combustion cycle. This is possible due to the new MultiJet II injector patented by FPT, and integrated into the ECU by Magneti Marelli. The shutter in the injector is hydraulically balanced, which allows a larger sealing diameter, with reduced shutter strokes. This servovalve allows fuel quantities to be injected into the combustion chamber quicker, and with greater accuracy.
The shutter stroke has been reduced to 20µm (microns), which has allowed the interval between two consecutive injections to be dramatically reduced. This allows the injection rate to be modulated, to achieve greater combustion process control. This new injection mode is called Injection Rate Shaping. The results are reduced noise, fuel consumption of 60.1mpg (Combined) and reduced pollutant emissions.
When a customer chooses the semi-automatic transmission, the benefits of MultiJet technology are amplified, with 61.4mpg (Combined) and 120g/km CO2.

2.0 MultiJet 165bhp
The most powerful engine in the Delta range is available exclusively on the Delta Limited. Customers can thus enjoy the most luxurious trim level with the most appropriate engine.
The 2.0 MultiJet features all of the MultiJet technology available on the 1.6, but in a more potent package, offering 165bhp and 360Nm of torque. Economy figures are still impressive at 55.4mpg (Combined) with CO2 emissions at 135g/km.

2012 Chrysler Ypsilon

2011-11-23T06:02:00.000-08:00

The new Chrysler Ypsilon is a mix of segment-leading style, cutting edge technology, eye-catching design and world-class engines. All this is incorporated in a 3.8m long 5dr vehicle that's shorter than most of its rivals.
On sale in the UK now, the Ypsilon certainly isn't a conservative 'me-too' entry into the most hotly contested class of cars in Europe. It's a premium model in a small car's body; original, full of character and targeting drivers who appreciate quality, elegance and innovation in equal measure. It marks a resurgence for Chrysler Group LLC which was formed in 2009 as a strategic alliance with Fiat.

Chrysler's portfolio contains some of Europe's most recognisable vehicles, including the striking 300C saloon and top-selling Grand Voyager MPV. Now with the help of Fiat's experience and knowledge in the small and medium-sized car sectors, Chrysler can imbue compact, more environmentally friendly models with the luxurious character traits of its bigger cars.

Chrysler brand director Nigel Land says: "Through the launch of Ypsilon and Delta we now have a range that encompasses both the small and medium passenger car markets with vehicles that are notably well designed, ensuring that they really are credible alternatives to the mainstream. They are equipped with all the features you would expect from a large Chrysler, integrated with stylish European designed interiors."

As well as bringing the Chrysler name to the supermini segment, the Ypsilon introduces a host of new technologies. For the first time in this class of car, buyers will have access to a raft of large car features such as Magic Parking, xenon headlights, Blue&Me™-TomTom LIVE and the Smart Fuel System.
On top of that, depending on the trim level they choose, buyers will be able to specify automatic climate control, fog lights, 16-inch wheels, cruise control, a leather steering wheel with audio controls, dusk and rain sensors, parking sensors and a 500-watt surround sound music system.

The Chrysler Ypsilon has been designed to compete in the increasingly popular supermini sector. To do so successfully it must appeal to a wide range of buyers, from down-sizers looking for an economical but comfortable small car, to those aiming to move up to a more luxurious model that is still affordable to buy and run. With a five-door body shape that has the appearance of a sporty three door thanks to hidden rear door handles, the Ypsilon combines practicality with good looks.
For added reassurance, it's also one of the safest cars in its segment, featuring as standard up to six airbags, ABS anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC - standard on Auto, optional on SE and Limited), Anti Slip Regulation (ASR), traction control and Hill Holder.

This is underpinned by a lightweight, super-strong and safe structure that sits on a new specially designed suspension. And beneath the bonnet there's a range of class-leading engines including the 2011 International Engine of the Year, the TwinAir. With its two distinct 'characters', this diminutive 0.9-litre turbo gives drivers the option of a sporting drive or class-leading economy in a lightweight package.
The Chrysler Ypsilon's engine range is completed by a zesty 1.2-litre petrol and a potent 1.3-litre turbo diesel, all of which come with Start&Stop as standard, and promise improved refinement combined with reduced emissions and consumption.

To give Ypsilon owners even more choice there will be three trim levels at launch: S, SE and Limited. But there's a huge choice of options in an almost limitless number of combinations, enabling drivers to give their car the personal touch. There's are 16 elegant paint combinations of which four are bi-colour; five different upholstery trims, and three types of alloy wheel.
Owners can personalise their cars further at Chrysler UK dealerships where they'll be able to order special wheels, add stylish piano black interior trim and buy special key fobs to give their car unique appeal.
Combined, all these facets ensure Chrysler Ypsilon owners will easily stand out from the crowd. And they'll enjoy a comfortable, chic and responsible city runabout that's wrapped up in cutting edge technology.

HIGH SPEC AS STANDARD
The Chrysler Ypsilon might look like a small three door, but it's actually a five-door, the configuration that makes up 77 per cent of the supermini market in the UK.
At just 384cm long and 167cm wide, the Ypsilon is smaller than many of its supermini rivals. Yet it has one of the largest luggage capacities in its segment and is one of the best in class when it comes to passenger space. It also has class-leading versatility thanks to its five-door hatchback design. And it manages to cloak all this in an exterior that exudes a uniquely elegant style for such a compact car. Setting the windscreen further forward creates the illusion of a larger, sleeker vehicle. It has also allowed the designers to make the luggage capacity larger.

The Chrysler Ypsilon's height, and therefore its generous head room, is disguised by two sweeping curves. The first takes the line of the bonnet and extends along the waistline, going up into the rear pillar. The second rises with the A pillar to follow the upper arch of the glass. It then drops to follow the outer edge of the tailgate window. It's a theme the Ypsilon shares with its big brother, the Delta.
The interplay between the concave and convex nature of the sides combines with rear door handles concealed in the C pillar to give this five door the appearance of a more compact 3dr car.

At the front, and unusually for a supermini, powerful, projector-type headlights sit either side of Chrysler's new shield grille. These give the car a sophisticated appearance and make it seem wider than it actually is. At the rear, LEDs are used to draw minimum power from the battery while creating the maximum impression. The lights have been developed with Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, and at the front feature integrated Daytime Running Lights (DRL) which automatically turn on when the engine is started. Finally, the rear reversing light and fog light sit below the back bumper, neatly protected from the knocks that go hand in hand with urban motoring.

Inside Ypsilon
The Chrysler Ypsilon was designed to give a large car feel in a small car shape and the interior embraces this philosophy.
The dashboard has a line that traces the curve of the windscreen and ties it into the door panels to give the cabin a feeling of extra width.
The materials don't just give the illusion of comfort. An all-new roof lining reduces noise inside the passenger compartment by 2 decibels (dB). To demonstrate the significance of that improvement, a reduction of 3dB equates to a 50 percent drop in noise. The rear seats, each with three-point seatbelts, have been designed to be as supportive as a larger car's. And the front pair use new 'slim seat' technology for the first time to increase leg space for rear passengers.

The cabin isn't just a restful place to be, it's bright as well. LEDs are used to illuminate the dashboard. And the main instruments sit in a central display above the console housing the entertainment and ventilation systems, to create an inclusive environment for driver and passengers alike.
But it's the Chrysler Ypsilon's level of equipment that makes it a benchmark vehicle in its segment. It's the first supermini to include Magic Parking, Blue&Me™-TomTom LIVE, the Smart Fuel System and innovative headlight clusters.

Magic Parking
Finding a parking place in towns and cities is frequently a patience-testing experience, so the Chrysler Ypsilon can be specified with the innovative Magic Parking system.
Pushing a button on the dashboard activates the system which then uses radar sensors mounted in the front bumpers combined with wheel speed sensors to measure the length of empty parking spaces. If it detects one that is free from obstacles and is the length of the car plus 40cm at either end, the driver is informed by a beeping noise and a message on the dash. If the driver decides to park in it, the car's computer takes over the steering while the driver retains control of the accelerator and brake and is permitted a speed of just over 4mph. The driver can deactivate the system at any time, either by turning the wheel, changing out of reverse gear or pressing the button on the dashboard.

Blue&Me™-TomTom LIVE
Every Chrysler Ypsilon can be specified with the latest and most versatile version of Fiat's award-winning Blue&Me™system.
Each car can be equipped with the fitting for Blue&Me™-TomTom LIVE. So even if owners don't specify it on purchase, they or future owners of their Ypsilon can buy it at a later date.
It's based on the TomTom Go1000 and features a touch screen that allows occupants to manage phone calls, satellite navigation and all the driver information required. It even allows control of a media player via the cutting edge next-generation touch screen.
It uses TomTom LIVE services which combine accurate traffic information, such as road closures or traffic jams, with dynamic route calculation. Chrysler Ypsilon customers will get a year's free subscription to LIVE. The removable screen sits in its special holder to the right of the steering wheel.

Other innovations
It's not just inside that the Chrysler Ypsilon is innovative. It also takes a step ahead of the competition with its Smart Fuel System. This device replaces the classic fuel cap and automatically opens and closes when the pump nozzle is put inside it. It makes refuelling easier and safer by reducing harmful gas emissions and fuel overflow. It also prevents 'misfuelling' as it's impossible to pump petrol into a diesel car (or vice versa) fitted with this system.
Setting itself further apart from rivals, new Ypsilon features a 360° 500-Watt sound system that's a unique factory fit option in such a small car. It consists of four 40W musical Dome tweeters, four 80W musical Neodymium mid-woofers and a digital eight-channel amplifier.
This then uses three signal processing methods simultaneously to increase the 'depth' and 'height' of the sound and equalise the stereophonic reproduction to produce a more enveloping experience for listeners.
All this equipment supplements a wide-range of standard kit. There's a height and reach-adjustable steering wheel, electric front windows, 60/40 (50/50 'S' model) split rear seat and height-adjustable driver's seat.

POWER AND ECONOMY COMBINED
The Chrysler Ypsilon benefits from some of the same cutting edge engine technology that has transformed Fiat Group Automobiles into one of the world's leading makers of environmentally friendly transport.
Three engine options are available, two petrol and one diesel. All come with the Start&Stop system as standard and all are Euro 5 emissions compliant. In the TwinAir model, a semi-automatic five-speed gearbox can be specified. All other models feature a five-speed manual transmission. All engines combine power with economy to ensure the Chrysler Ypsilon isn't just environmentally responsible and therefore economical to run, it's effortless to drive too.

1.2-litre Fire
The range starts with the latest evolution of the famous Fire engines family. This 1.2-litre eight-valve unit features continuously variable valve timing which optimises the opening and closing of the valves to ensure the engine still feels peppy while operating at maximum efficiency.
The engine develops a healthy 102Nm of torque at 3000rpm while power at 5500rpm is a respectable 69bhp. And thanks to Start&Stop, overall fuel consumption is reduced by 5 per cent while CO2 emissions are an impressively low 115g/km.

0.9-litre TwinAir
The other petrol engine available in the new Ypsilon is 2011's International Engine of the Year, the TwinAir. This combines Fiat Powertrain Technologies' (FPT) revolutionary MultiAir technology with a small capacity two-cylinder engine plus turbocharger.
The results are ground-breaking, giving the 875cc TwinAir more power (85bhp) and torque (145Nm) than the larger capacity 1.2-litre Fire engine. It is also more economical and at 97g/km (for the semi-automatic gearbox version), has the lowest CO2 emissions of any quantity production automotive petrol engine currently on sale.
The bedrock of the TwinAir is the MultiAir technology that underpins it. This system features electro-hydraulic valve management that reduces fuel consumption by controlling the air going into the engine via the inlet valves without using the throttle. It enables airflow to be managed cylinder by cylinder, cycle by cycle, phase by phase, according to the driver's and therefore the engine's requirements. By rigorously controlling the combustion process, pumping losses of around 10 per cent are eliminated, while valve control strategies can be optimised to reduce emissions and boost driveability through improved throttle responses.
The TwinAir also features an ECO button on the dashboard. By pressing it, torque is limited to 100Nm at 2000rpm for even greater increases in economy and reductions in emissions.

1.3-litre MultiJet
The third engine in the range is the lively 1.3-litre MultiJet II turbo-diesel with its 95bhp and 200Nm of torque at 1500rpm for effortless low speed cruising. This second generation engine is equipped with a variable geometry turbocharger, a new variable displacement engine oil pump and an alternator with 'smart charge'.
The engine features faster injectors than the first generation of its kind. Now with eight injections per cycle, it offers greater speed, flexibility and precision in its various phases of operation. By improving the combustion process in this way, operation is quieter while particulate and nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions are lowered.
The injectors are also simpler and with 40 per cent fewer components they're more reliable than their predecessor, thereby promising cheaper running costs.

Economy isn't solely enhanced by the capable engine line-up. Chrysler has left no stone unturned in its efforts to make the Ypsilon as economical as possible. As a consequence, it sits on new generation low rolling resistance Goodyear EfficientGrip tyres. These use new materials to make them 10 per cent lighter. This results in 1.9 per cent better fuel economy, which Goodyear estimates could save a driver 30.6 litres of fuel over 12,500 miles. These tyres are also longer lasting and offer greater braking capability.
Every Chrysler Ypsilon is equipped with Start&Stop and a Gear Shift Indicator (GSI). Specifically designed for city driving, Start&Stop is like having an invisible co-pilot who automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle is stationary. But all the systems that guarantee comfort and safety on board, such as the lights, climate control and windscreen wipers, remain operational. When either the system detects that the battery needs some charge, or the driver dips the clutch to engage first gear, the engine fires automatically.
By cutting the engine when it isn't needed, Start&Stop saves up to 15 per cent in fuel over the urban cycle. The GSI meanwhile helps the driver to change gear at the optimum point for best fuel consumption.

TOP PRIORITY FOR SAFETY
The new Chrysler Ypsilon has been engineered from the ground up to be more cosseting than any car in its class. The secret of its success here lies in the suspension, which is all-new front and rear.
The MacPherson front suspension uses a lower arm made of ultra-high strength material, while a modular cross member is made from low thickness, high strength steel sheets. As well as improving comfort, this helps dissipate impact energy through the car to make the Ypsilon safer. The front suspension also features shock absorbers with split mountings to transmit loads to the body through two different routes to filter out road vibrations better, and improve acoustic performance.
A new anti-roll bar has had its weight reduced and been connected to the shock absorbers to maximise its anti-roll effect. Lastly, new bushes have been designed for the front suspension. These have a lower dynamic stiffening than previously to maximise comfort on bumpy roads and reduce noise. A torsion axle is fitted at the rear. With new bushes, this guarantees greater comfort on bumpy roads and improves noise insulation without affecting road holding.

High strength materials have also been employed in the Chrysler Ypsilon's body. These improve the car's energy absorption characteristics in both front and side impacts, but also make it lighter to benefit fuel economy.
Another safety innovation employed on the new Ypsilon is the third load path. In frontal impacts this transfers crash energy to the lower, more resistant parts of the vehicle. It increases the vehicle's ability to absorb frontal impacts, helps control deformation of the passenger cell, and reduces the chance of intrusion to the passenger compartment.
High performance tempered steel has been used for the front bumper cross member, while the lightweight strong plastic Xenoy has been employed on the rear bumper cross member. The energy absorption material behind the third load path is made of a special highly absorbent plastic. This minimises damage in low speed impacts and reduces the risk of knee damage in pedestrian collisions.

It's no accident that all these features combine to make the new Chrysler Ypsilon one of the safest cars in its class. It was designed at the Fiat Safety Centre, and information was gathered from all possible types of accident including front, rear and side impacts, roll overs, pile-ups and collisions with pedestrians. The varying speeds at which impacts occur were also accounted for, as well as obstacles the car might collide with, and the physical shape and size of occupants.
Initial testing was carried out by virtual means, involving more than 20,000 hours of mathematical modelling. The results were then confirmed with more than 80 crash tests, 100 tests on a HyGe Sled and about 100 tests on components and sub- systems.

The Ypsilon features a wealth of safety equipment as standard across the entire range. There is VDC vehicle dynamic control (standard on Auto and optional on SE and Limited versions), complete with ASR traction control plus Hill Holder, and ABS anti-lock braking with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
Inside, there are up to six airbags (two each on the front, window and side - S versions have four airbags) and front seat belts with double pretensioners and load limiters. There are three-point seat belts across the rear passenger accommodation, (two rear seats on S versions), making this a realistically safe five-seater. Both front and rear seats are fitted with an anti-submarining system to prevent the body from sliding underneath the seatbelt, and the front seats have an anti-whiplash system to reduce the risk of injury in rear end collisions. Finally, ISOFIX attachments, which allow child seats to be securely fitted, are standard.

ACCESSORISE ALL AREAS
There is an almost limitless combination of options to enable owners to personalise their Chrysler Ypsilon.
Three basic trim levels are available: S, SE and Limited. Even the entry-level S trim, which is only available with the 1.2-litre engine, is a very well equipped supermini. Standard equipment features height adjustable steering wheel, electric front windows, 50/50 split rear seat, height-adjustable driver's seat, 15-inch wheels, premium fabric upholstery and heated rear window, radio with CD and MP3 player, plus the full complement of safety kit.
In addition to that, SE specification adds manual climate control, electrically adjustable door mirrors, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear-lever gaiter, and Castiglio upholstery available in either Romantic Gold or Urban Black designs.

Finally, with an eye very firmly on buyers who will be purchasing the new Ypsilon for its high specification, the Limited has rear electric windows, fog lights, 15-inch alloy wheels and leather upholstery.
Should owners want to customise their cars, there's an extensive range of quality accessories available to complement the new Ypsilon's bespoke nature. There are 16-inch alloy wheels, side skirts and tinted headlights plus door kick plates with illuminated logo.
To enhance the new Chrysler Ypsilon's already expressive design further, there's a stylish range of exterior paint trims, including bi-colour, which allows owners to specify varying bonnet and roof colours to make their car even more eye-catching. A total of 16 colours are available, including four Bi-colour, four Metallic, four Micalised, two Tri-coat and two Pastel.

2008 Chevrolet Orlando Concept

2011-11-23T05:33:00.000-08:00

The Chevrolet Orlando Concept is a clear indication that Chevrolet is considering an expansion to its portfolio with a seven-seat multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with distinctive sport-utility-like design, adaptable seating and impressive interior space.
Based on the recently announced all-new Chevrolet Cruze compact sedan, the Orlando carries Chevrolet's signature design language into a new vehicle segment. It explores the potential of combining the versatility attributes of a sport utility, a family van and a wagon in a single execution.
Chevrolet Orlando cuts a distinctive silhouette, replacing conventional monocab proportions with a more defined contrast between the hood and windshield lines. With flared fenders instead of a flat side-body, Chevrolet Orlando Concept has a muscular stance that gives it the appearance of a sport utility vehicle, yet it offers dynamic ride and handling, excellent fuel efficiency and easy entry thanks to its car-based architecture.
Inside, the five-door Chevrolet Orlando Concept is designed to meet the needs of families and those who need plenty of seating capacity with adaptable, theater-style seating in three rows that comfortably accommodate up to seven occupants. Whenever load carrying becomes a priority, the spacious cabin can be quickly transformed into a large cargo area. A generous 2,760 mm wheelbase and wide front and rear tracks provide Orlando with outstanding interior roominess.
Chevrolet's latest-generation, 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 hp/110 kW and 320 Nm of torque, provides a powerful and efficient powertrain.

Strong Design Statement
Orlando takes Chevrolet's design into the multi-purpose vehicle segment. The front features the brand's signature twin-port grille and the large, sweeping headlamp housings seen on the Cruze. It also incorporates a concave shoulder line that extends along the body into the wraparound tail lights, another design feature from the Cruze that will distinguish future-generation Chevrolet products.
This distinctive look is complemented by the flared fender lines, defining a 'wheels-out/body-in' stance that visually lowers the higher roof line. The ice-blue theme for instrument illumination is also used on the exterior of Chevrolet Orlando Concept in the laser-etched surfacing of the headlamps, tail lights and full-length glass roof.
Inside, Orlando features Chevrolet's 'dual cockpit' design theme, with grained, dark grey accents extending outwards either side of the center stack.

The cabin is designed to meet the demands of families and those who need plenty of seating capacity with infotainment options and navigation. Overhead, a storage compartment extends along the center of the roof, providing useful stowage space for rear passengers. Design details include a center stack recess to hold a personal device/MP3 player when it is connected to the USB or Aux ports. Further storage space is provided inside the floor console, the second row center arm-rest and under the floor in the rear.
The raised roof enables a theater-style seating layout. It provides all occupants, particularly children, with an improved view inside and outside the vehicle, while enabling conversation between all those on board.

Adaptable Interior
A generous 2,760 mm wheelbase, 75 mm longer than that of the new Cruze sedan, and front and rear tracks 40 mm and 30 mm wider, provide Chevrolet Orlando Concept with seating and cargo-carrying space that is among best-in-class for compact MPVs.
It is a true seven-seater, with second and third row legroom of 950 mm and 753 mm, respectively. The reverse faces of these seat backs are covered in a tough, metal finish and can be folded completely flat for easy loading. A range of occupant and load-carrying configurations is provided by 60/40 second-row and 50/50 third-row split folding seating.
"We focused on giving Chevrolet Orlando Concept a strong, robust appearance," says Designer Seungwoo Kim. "It draws on Chevrolet's tradition for honest, simple design, while at the same time extending our new design language into the compact multi-purpose vehicle segment."

2009 Chevrolet Aveo5

2011-11-22T04:35:00.000-08:00

Proving that fuel solutions can be wrapped in bold, fun packages, Chevrolet unveiled the 2009 Aveo5 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The redesigned challenger to the economy segment delivers exceptional, EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway (with the standard five-speed manual transmission) - and is expected to be the lowest-priced car in America when it goes on sale in 2008.
"Chevrolet is committed to fuel solutions of all types, and the new Aveo5 demonstrates that gasoline remains viable in a highly efficient, affordable package," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "It is a terrific value, with a worry-free ownership experience that has the lowest ownership cost of any vehicle on the market, yet it packs all of Chevy's fun-to-drive spirit."
The new '09 Aveo5 reaffirms the brand's value position and builds on it with features expected in larger, more expensive cars - such as standard OnStar and available XM Satellite Radio - as well as its signature "tall car" design that enables surprising passenger and cargo room. It is powered by a new, fuel-sipping, 1.6L DOHC engine with variable valve timing that produces more power (107 hp / 80 kW) and strong torque (106-lb.-ft. / 143 Nm) - and has been tuned for quieter performance.

"Customers will be surprised by the 'big' features of The Chevrolet Aveo5 - big room, big style, big refinement and, of course, big fuel economy," said Peper. "It is a flexible car that provides untold capabilities, with cargo features and flexibility that change as your needs change."
Indeed, The Chevrolet Aveo5's efficiency and flexibility go hand in hand. With its improved fuel economy among the best on the market using regular gasoline, the '09 Aveo5 can travel more than 400 miles (643 km) between fill-ups, resulting in fewer trips to the gas station and road trips that require fewer stops.
The Chevrolet Aveo5 goes on sale in mid-2008, joining the recently redesigned Aveo sedan. It is available in base, LS and LT trims - each backed by a "worry free" five-year/100,000-mile transferable powertrain warranty, plus Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation.

Bold, tall-car design
The Chevrolet Aveo5's dynamic, contemporary styling represents the global face of Chevrolet design. Redesigned, body-color fascias and chrome accents suggest a more expensive car, along with available features - such as its large power sunroof - that are unexpected in the segment, Aveo5 retains its characteristic "tall car" configuration, enabling a spacious interior, with generous headroom that is greater than many midsize sedans.
The front of the new Aveo5 features the bold, chrome-finished grille - with prominent gold Chevy bowtie - that is characteristic of all new members of the Chevrolet family, such as the Malibu. It is complemented with features that reinforce Aveo5's premium appearance, including new and distinctive chrome-finished side vents on the front fenders and jeweled-appearance headlamps.
The Chevrolet Aveo5's sleek styling accents longer, wider and taller dimensions, with sculpted lines and a wide, confident stance. Pronounced "shoulders" over the wheel openings and body-color door sills convey the look of a larger car. A more assertive, dynamic look is accomplished with crisp, V-shaped hood edges, bold front and rear fascias with premium cues, such as larger, available front fog lamps; a rear-fascia lower grille; and a larger available rear spoiler located on the trailing edge of the roof.
Ten exterior colors are available. They include: Summit White, Black Granite Metallic, Sport Red, Victory Red, Blue Moon, Bright Blue, Tahiti Green, Cosmic Silver, Medium Gray and Summer Yellow.

Roomy environment
The Chevrolet Aveo5's exterior is complemented by a quiet passenger cabin that features well-crafted details and generous standard features that enhance comfort. It is one of the most spacious vehicles in its class, with features and refinement comparable to more expensive vehicles.
With its signature "tall car" design, The Chevrolet Aveo5's generous dimensions easily accommodate 6-foot-tall passengers in each of the five seating positions. It also is a quiet interior environment, with soundproofing technologies that complement quieting powertrain enhancements and improved aerodynamics to provide a quiet, comfortable and vibration-free ride, even at higher speed.
Attention to comfort is evidenced in elements such as standard driver's seat armrests. Also, theater-style rear seating provides a commanding view for all passengers. A 60/40-split rear seat expands Aveo5's interior cargo capacity; and when more cargo-carrying capability is required, the rear seat can be flipped and folded, offering 42 cu. ft. (1,189 L) of cargo space.

Refined, well-appointed interior
The interior's contemporary appearance is achieved through sleek lines and the clever use of rich materials, including a new, available two-tone, charcoal/light gray design (on charcoal interiors) that provides a premium look and feel. Other premium appearance elements include technical-grain, low-gloss surfaces; wood grain, satin-chrome or carbon-fiber finishes on the instrument panel and door panels; and even perforated faux leather seating surfaces, steering wheel cover and shifter knob.
Additionally, clever details abound, such as a sunglasses holder; door pockets for books and maps; and hooks that can secure shopping bags. Unexpected value is delivered through more standard and available features - features not typically found in the segment, including:

Fully reclining front seats with convenience hooks
Six-way-adjustable seats - plus driver lumbar adjustment
Tilting steering wheel
Driver information center
Oil Life Monitoring System
Cruise control
Power windows and locks
Heated, dual power body-color foldaway outside mirrors
On-key (no separate fob) remote keyless entry
Air conditioning with cabin filtration
Large, power-operated sunroof

Audio systems
Aveo5 LS models offer a standard AM/FM, four-speaker radio system, 36 presets and an auxiliary input jack for MP3 devices. An AM/FM radio with CD/MP3 capability (including an auxiliary input jack) and six-speaker sound system is standard on the LT and available on LS.
All Aveo5 radios are derived from GM's new family of premium radio systems, which are distinguished by upscale appearance, simplicity of operation and range of features and capabilities. Steering wheel audio controls are standard on LT models
XM Satellite Radio - a popular choice among youthful customers - is standard on 1LT models and available on LS. It offers more than 100 channels of music, news, sports and entertainment. XM Satellite Radio must be activated and a subscription fee applies.

Ride and handling
The Chevrolet Aveo5 was developed for a dynamic, well-planted driving experience and fuel efficiency. It has a wide stance and long wheelbase (97.7 inches / 2,480 mm) to deliver a smooth, confident ride. A MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension (with gas-charged shocks) deliver refined ride and handling characteristics.
Power-assisted, variable-rate rack-and-pinion steering is standard, with the steering gear is mounted on the front suspension cross member for precise action and stability. Fourteen-inch wheels are standard, but sporty 15-inch alloy wheels are available.
As a global car, The Chevrolet Aveo5 was tested and validated for a broad range of driving and road conditions. The suspension system is inspired by the driving experiences of European sports sedans yet tuned for contemporary American driving tastes - a combination that delivers both smoothness and a responsive, spirited driving experience.

Powertrains
Supporting Aveo5's responsive and economical driving experience is a new, Ecotec 1.6L DOHC four-cylinder powertrain. The sophisticated engine uses Dual Continuous Variable Cam Phasing - two continuously adjustable camshafts - to optimize the charge cycle for fuel economy and performance. As a result, this 16-valve DOHC engine delivers more horsepower than the previous engine, with ratings of 107 horsepower (80 kw)* and 106 lb.-ft. of torque (143 Nm)*, and nearly 8-percent improved fuel efficiency when compared to the previous Aveo5 model.
The new, 1.6L engine features additional technology highlights to improve fuel economy, quality, reliability and durability, including:

New four-in-one sheet metal exhaust manifold, with integrated catalytic converter and secondary underfloor catalytic converter
Engine oil cooler and piston oil squirters
New GM-corporate engine control system
Electronically controlled thermostat
Oil Life Monitoring System

Additionally, the engine is tuned for quieter performance, with a more pleasing sound during acceleration.
A smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission is standard and an Aisin four-speed automatic with Hold Control Mode is available. Hold Control Mode is a special feature that helps reduce wheel spin and traction loss on slick roads by allowing the driver to select and hold a higher gear, thus reducing torque.

Safety features
A comprehensive system of safety and security technologies is designed to meet safety standards of markets around the globe. The Chevrolet Aveo5's safety starts with a high-strength steel structure that creates a safety cage around the passenger compartment. The structure features strength-enhancing, tailor-welded blanks that help avoid protrusions into the passenger compartment.
The Chevrolet Aveo5 also comes standard with advanced dual-stage frontal air bags and the GM Passenger Sensing System, as well as standard h ead/thorax seat-mounted side air bags for front passengers. The head/thorax seat-mounted side air bags deploy during side impacts and are triggered by a sophisticated sensor system in the front doors.
The brake system on The Chevrolet Aveo5 is available with a four-channel ABS system. The four-sensor system - one at each wheel - incorporates electronic brake force distribution, which balances braking performance based on road conditions the weight of passengers and/or cargo.

Additional Aveo5 safety features include:

Front safety belt pretensioners
Energy-absorbing steering column
Knee bolsters
Height-adjustable shoulder belt anchors
Lower Anchors and Top Tether for Children (LATCH) for rear seats
Rear child safety door locks
Tire pressure monitoring system

All Aveo5 models come standard with OnStar Gen 7, which features advanced automatic crash notification, remote diagnostics and a monthly status report. OnStar provides the responsiveness of a trained operator to assist you at the touch of a button. From security features of operator directions, remote diagnostics, lockout service, roadside assistance to emergency response, OnStar offers the assistance you need when you need it. Aveo5 (and Aveo sedan) is the only car in its class with this safety and convenience feature.

2009 Chevrolet Corvette GT1 / 2009 Chevrolet Corvette GT1 Championship Edition

2011-11-22T04:21:00.000-08:00

Chevrolet introduced the limited production Corvette GT1 Championship Edition at Sebring International Raceway. The GT1 Championship Edition (Regular Production Option GT1) commemorates the success of Corvette Racing and the Corvette C6.R:

Eight American Le Mans Series GT1 manufacturers and team championships
Five-time 24 Hours of Le Mans class champions
74 victories in international sports car competition

Included in the GT1 Championship Edition package:

Graphics inspired by C6.R livery feature Corvette Racing "Jake" mascot, ALMS championships, and driver flags
ZR1-style body color full-width spoiler and chrome wheels
Custom leather-wrapped ebony interior with exclusive yellow accent stitching
GT1 embroidery on leather seats, instrument panel, and center console armrest
Special engine cover with carbon pattern and yellow Corvette lettering
Windshield banner (owner installed)

GT1 Championship Edition to be produced in Corvette coupe, convertible and Z06 models in spring 2009:

Available in 45U Velocity Yellow (with black headlamps) or 41U Black
Specific VIN sequence 300001 series for 45U Velocity Yellow representing the No. 3 Corvette C6.R
Specific VIN sequence 400001 series for 41U Black representing the No. 4 Corvette C6.R
Production limited to 100 per each color and body style combination (600 total)
Coupe and convertible versions also include Z51 Performance Package and NPP Performance Exhaust

Optional MX0 6-speed paddle shift automatic on coupe and convertible
Optional C2L dual roof package on coupe
Optional U3U Navigation System on all models

2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

2011-11-22T04:03:00.000-08:00

Chevrolet officially announced the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 - an American supercar that brings the technology and engineering refinement of carbon-fiber, ceramics and electronics together in a distinctive design.
"Chevrolet's goal with the new Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is to show what an American supercar can deliver, at a price that trumps exotics that cost two, three or four times as much - and does so with exceptional driveability," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager.

The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's basic stats:

All-new LS9 supercharged 6.2L V-8 targeted at producing at least 100 horsepower per liter, or 620 horsepower (462 kW), and approximately 595 lb.-ft. of torque (823 Nm)
Six-speed, close-ratio, race-hardened manual transmission
New, high-capacity dual-disc clutch
Higher-capacity and specific-diameter axle half-shafts; enhanced torque tube
Specific suspension tuning provides more than 1g cornering grip
Twenty-spoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels
Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires - P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear - developed specifically for the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Standard carbon-ceramic, drilled disc brake rotors - 15.5-inch-diameter (394-mm) in the front and 15-inch-diameter (380-mm) in the rear
Larger brake calipers with substantially increased pad area
Standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control with track-level suspension
Wider, carbon-fiber front fenders with Chevrolet Corvette ZR1-specific dual vents
Carbon-fiber hood with a raised, polycarbonate window - offering a view of the intercooler below it
Carbon-fiber roof panel, roof bow, front fascia splitter and rocker moldings with clear-coated, exposed carbon-fiber weave
ZR1-specific full-width rear spoiler with raised outboard sections
Specific gauge cluster with boost gauge (also displayed on the head-up display) and 220-mph (370 km/h) speedometer readout
Only two options: chrome wheels and a "luxury" package
Curb weight of approximately 3,350 pounds (1,519 kg)

The specialized components of the new Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 work harmoniously to deliver the most powerful and fastest automobile ever produced by General Motors. Performance estimates will be announced closer to vehicle's summer 2008 launch.
"Preliminary testing shows the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 builds on the highly respected Chevrolet Corvette Z06 in every performance category, from acceleration and braking, to cornering grip and top speed," said Peper. "It all boils down to the power-to-weight ratio and the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's is exceptional - better than the Porsche 911 GT2, the Ferrari 599 and even the Lamborghini Murcielago LP640. In fact, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is expected to be the first production Corvette to achieve a top speed of at least 200 mph."

Supercharged LS9 engine
The new LS9 6.2L small-block engine is the power plant the supports the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's performance capability. The enabler of the LS9's performance and refinement is a large, positive-displacement Roots-type supercharger with a new, four-lobe rotor design. It is augmented with an integrated charge cooling system that reduces inlet air temperature for maximum performance.
A sixth-generation supercharger developed by Eaton helps the LS9 make big power and torque at lower rpm and carries it in a wide arc to 6,600 rpm, as it pushes enough air to help the engine maintain power through the upper levels of the rpm band - the area where supercharged performance tends to diminish. Heavy-duty and lightweight reciprocating components enable the engine's confident high-rpm performance.
The LS9 is hand-assembled at GM's Performance Build Center, in Wixom, Mich., and incorporates specialty processes typically seen in racing engines to produce a highly refined and precise product. For example, cast iron cylinder liners are inserted in the aluminum block and are finish-bored and honed with a deck plate installed. The deck plate simulates the pressure and minute dimensional variances applied to the block when the cylinder heads are installed, ensuring a higher degree of accuracy that promotes maximum cylinder head sealing, piston ring fit and overall engine performance.

Transmission and axle
The LS9 engine is backed by a new, stronger six-speed manual transmission and a twin-disc clutch that provide exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch effort. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1-specific gearing in the transmission provides a steep first-gear ratio that helps launch the car, and top speed is achieved in sixth gear - a change from the fifth-gear top-speed run-outs in the manual-transmission Corvette and Corvette Z06.
As the term implies, the twin-disc clutch system employs a pair of discs, which spreads out the engine's torque load over a wider area. This enables tremendous clamping power when the clutch is engaged, while also helping to dissipate heat better and extend the life of the clutch.
The twin-disc clutch system also contributes to the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's exceptional driving quality, with smooth and easy shifting. The twin-disc system's design enables a 25-percent reduction in inertia, thanks to smaller, 260-mm plates, corresponding to a pedal effort that is similar to the Corvette Z06's 290-mm single-disc system.
The rear axle also is stronger in the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and features asymmetrical axle-shaft diameters that were developed after careful testing to provide optimal torque management. The axles are also mounted on a more horizontal plane that correlates with the wider width of the rear wheels and tires.

Ride and handling
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is built on the same aluminum-intensive chassis as the Corvette Z06 and features similar independent SLA front and rear suspensions, with aluminum upper and lower control arms. Where the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 differs is the suspension tuning, which was optimized for the car's steamroller-wide front and rear tires.
Magnetic Selective Ride Control is standard and tuned specifically for the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. The system's ability to deliver a compliant ride with nearly instantaneous damping adjustments enabled engineers to develop a surprisingly supple ride quality in a supercar that still delivers cornering grip of more than 1g.
From a high-performance perspective, Magnetic Selective Ride Control helps the rear axle remain planted during launch for smooth, hop-free acceleration. It also helps suppress axle movement when cornering on broken or uneven pavement.

Brakes, wheels and tires
Commensurate with the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's engine output is the braking system, which is headlined by carbon-ceramic brake rotors. Found on only a few exotics and more expensive supercars, carbon-ceramic brake rotors are made of a carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic silicon carbide material . Their advantage comes in low mass and resistance to wear and heat. In fact, the rotors should never show any corrosion or require replacement for the life of the vehicle, when used in normal driving.
The vented and cross-drilled rotors on the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 measure 15.5 inches (394 mm) in diameter in the front and 15 inches (380 mm) in diameter in the rear - making them among the largest carbon-ceramic rotors available on any production vehicle.
Clamping down on the high-tech rotors are six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers, each painted a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1-exclusive blue. The front pads are equivalent in size to the largest on any production car with a single-pad design - double that of the Corvette Z06's 70-sq.-cm. front pads.
The brakes are visible through the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's exclusive wheels: 20-spoke alloy rims that measure 19 inches in diameter in the front and 20 inches in the rear. They come standard with a bright, Sterling Silver paint finish and chrome versions are optional. The wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires developed specifically for the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, measuring P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear.

Exclusive exterior
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is instantly recognizable, with perhaps the most identifiable feature a raised, all-carbon-fiber hood that incorporates a clear, polycarbonate window. The window provides a view of the top of the engine's intercooler, with the legend "LS9 SUPERCHARGED" embossed on the left and right sides, and an engine cover with the Corvette crossed flags logo debossed at the front.
The underside of the hood has an exposed carbon-fiber-weave. Exposed carbon-fiber is used on the roof, roof bow, rocker molding and front splitter. These exterior components are protected by a specially developed glossy, UV-resistant clear coat that resists yellowing and wear.
Widened, carbon-fiber front fenders with specific, dual lower vents, and a full-width, body-color rear spoiler incorporating the center high-mounted stop lamp, are also unique to the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. All of the exterior features of the car were developed to enhance high-speed stability and driver control.

Interior details
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's interior builds on the brand's dual-cockpit heritage, with high-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality that support the premium-quality experience promised by the car's performance. The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's cabin differs from the Chevrolet Corvette and Corvette Z06 with the following:

ZR1-logo sill plates
ZR1-logo headrest embroidery
Specific gauge cluster with "ZR1" logo on the tachometer and a 220-mph (370 km/h) readout on the speedometer
Boost gauge added to the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display

The "base" Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (RPO 1LZ) comes with accoutrements based on the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, including lightweight seats and lightweight content. The uplevel interior package includes unique, power-adjustable and leather-trimmed sport seats (embroidered with the ZR1 logo); custom, leather-wrapped interior available in four colors; navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and more.

By the numbers
In addition to the exterior cues and powertrain, Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 models will be distinguished from other Corvette models by their VIN. Each will carry a unique, identifying VIN digit, as well as a sequential build number. This makes it easy to determine the build number of a specific car - information treasured by enthusiasts and collectors. For example, a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 with a VIN ending in "0150" would indicate it is the 150 th Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 built for the model year.

2009 Chevrolet Cruze

2011-11-21T20:21:00.000-08:00

The all-new Chevrolet Cruze sedan raises the bar for design appeal, build quality and running refinement in Europe's compact value segment.
Backed by an anticipated high level EuroNCAP crash safety rating and an all-new powertrain line-up, Chevrolet Cruze also heralds the introduction of a new global design language for the Chevrolet brand.
"Chevrolet has always stood for value and Cruze delivers on that promise like never before," says Wayne Brannon, GM Europe Vice President, Chevrolet. "It redefines value with its design, quality, materials and great style inside and out."
Developed to satisfy European tastes in design and chassis performance, Chevrolet Cruze goes on sale in March and will spearhead the launch of a series of new products that share its design and quality standards. Quite simply, Chevrolet believes the introduction of Cruze has 'moved the goalposts' for products seeking to compete successfully in its segment.

Exterior Design
The multi-national design team, based in Korea with input from colleagues in Germany, the United States and Australia, were tasked with delivering an all-new compact, notchback sedan that will re-energize the Chevrolet brand.
"Our goal was to be revolutionary, not evolutionary," says Taewan Kim, Vice President of the GM DAT Design Center in Korea. Inside and out, the team has developed a new global design language for the Chevrolet brand, introducing fresh visual elements while leveraging the potential to express traditional, Chevy signature design cues in new ways.
An arching roofline, extending from the steeply raked windshield into the slim rear pillars, is the defining exterior feature of Chevrolet Cruze. Combined with a relatively short rear deck, it brings four-door coupé-like looks to this market segment for the first time.
Wider and longer than its predecessor, Chevrolet Cruze has a well-planted, close-to-the-ground stance with its wheels located at the outer edges of the tautly drawn bodywork. A distinctive concave shoulder line flows along the sides of the car into the rear deck lid and is set to become a new signature Chevy design feature. The upscale visual appearance is also reinforced by clean, uncluttered bodywork free from moldings or trim.
The signature dual-port grille carries Chevy's gold bowtie with a new air of self-confidence. It is flanked by distinctive headlamp housings, with 'jewel-effect' detailing, that sweep up, arrow-like, to a point in the front fenders. Neat rear styling includes flush-mounted tail light clusters, each molded with two circular shapes, echoing a traditional Chevy twin light styling motif.
The svelte looks are backed by a competitive 0.31 co-efficient of drag and a build quality with attention to detail typical of products costing far more. A best-in-class fit and finish for panel gaps and shut-lines contribute to the quality, 'hewn from solid' appearance.
"This is a car with a strong, upscale character and a great stance," adds Taewan Kim. "We think it will stand out among its competitors."

Interior Design and Features
Conveying a sporty yet warm ambience, the five-seater cabin is typified by harmonious, flowing lines and the application of grained, soft-touch materials. It is a high quality execution that transcends the compact value segment.
Class-leading features include the flush fit of panels, with exceptionally tight gap tolerances, and generous rear passenger leg, head and shoulder room, despite Chevrolet Cruze's signature sloping roofline.
The core interior design theme is a modern expression of a traditional Chevy styling cue - the signature 'twin cockpit' layout of the Corvette, a motif designed to bringing driver and passenger closer to a 'shared' experience. On each side of the main fascia, there is a choice of colored fabric or grained vinyl panels, which are complemented by matching inserts in the seats and door trims.
The center point for the 'dual cockpit' symmetry is a neatly integrated center stack, housing the infotainment and air conditioning displays and controls. It is mounted at a shallow angle and has a flowing, free form which eliminates straight lines and the traditional 'picture framing' of panels.
Three-dimensional math modeling was used in the design of the main instrument cluster. The analogue dials are backlit by LED for clear, crisp illumination in white and ice blue.

Compared to the seats of its predecessor, the main improvements for Chevrolet Cruze are the use of a wire mesh construction to distribute weight more evenly, a firmer foam filling and deeper bolstering for the cushions and seat-backs, front and rear.

The fabric upholstery includes high quality French seam stitching that provides excellent durability and eliminates the possibility of a 'stretched-seam' appearance over time. Leather upholstery, with heated front seats, is an option for the top LT specification.

The range of fore/aft adjustment for the front seats has been extended by approximately 50 mm, giving the longest travel in the value compact segment.

Manually-controlled air conditioning is an option for base and standard with LS variants, while dual-zone automatic climate control is standard with LT specification. A particulate and odor filtration system that cleans the air entering the cabin is standard throughout the range, as is a heated rear screen.

An AM/FM/CD audio system, with RDS digital signaling, an MP3 playback facility and two-color graphic display, is standard for base and LS variants. The LT system adds an in-dash, six-CD auto-changer and a USB socket for an iPod in the center console. A DVD-based Navigation system is offered in all specifications and includes a 7-inch color map display, a segment 'first' for Chevrolet.

Structure and Safety Systems
Chevrolet Cruze's body structure is among the stiffest in its class, with a torsional rigidity 140% greater than that of its predecessor. This tight, strong structure is key to suppressing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), as well as securing a good crash safety performance and optimal ride and handling properties.
The car has been co-operatively engineered at GM facilities in Germany, the United States, Australia and Korea. "In key areas, such the body structure, suspension, safety and electrical systems, we have drawn on GM 'best practices' around the world," says Peter Mertens, GM Global Vehicle Line Executive for compact cars.

The core structure is a unitary construction fabricated from steel beams, pressings and box sections, with an overall torsional rigidity of 17.66 KNm/degree of deflection. About 65% of the structure is composed of high-strength steels (HSS), approximately 50% more than in its predecessor. About 30% more spot welds are also used throughout the structure.

Efficient load paths provide maximum occupant protection in the event of an impact from virtually any direction. Full-length beams and enhancements to the sills, B-pillars and A-pillars, through the use of high-strength steels and tailored blank processing, all contribute to the vehicle's excellent crashworthiness.

The energy absorbing front and rear crumple zones are designed to deform as efficiently as possible in order to maintain the integrity of the passenger compartment, which is protected by a safety cage reinforced with tubular-section members that frame the door openings and support the roof. The combination of a single-piece side structure and ultra-high strength steel door beams also provides effective side impact protection.

At low speeds up to 4 km/h, the front and rear bumper skins are designed to absorb light impact energy, helping to minimize bodywork damage.

Apart from minimizing noise and vibration, a stiff structure also makes it easier to isolate residual powertrain, road and wind noise for even quieter cabin comfort. Chevrolet Cruze has achieved interior acoustic and wind noise ratings that are both among best-in-class for compact sedans in the value segment.

Three-point seatbelts are fitted for all five seating positions. Driver and passenger front airbags, side curtain roof rail airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and a collapsible pedal assembly are all fitted as standard. Active safety measures include the anti-lock braking (ABS), traction control (TCS) and optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

Powertrain
The all-new gasoline and diesel line-up comprises 1.6 and 1.8-liter, all-aluminum, gasoline engines, and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel unit with 16 valves.
Both gasoline engines feature variable valve timing on both the inlet and exhaust sides. The 1.6-liter engine develops 113 hp/83 kW maximum power at 6,400 rpm and peak torque of 153 Nm at 4,200 rpm.
The 1.8-liter version offers even more responsive performance, with 141 hp/104 kW at 6,200 rpm and peak torque of 176 Nm at 3,800 rpm, including 85% from just 2,000 rpm right up to 6,300 rpm. In terms of power output-per-liter, this engine is among the most efficient on the market.
With manual transmissions, these engines deliver zero to 100 km/h acceleration in 12.5 and 10.0 seconds, respectively, and fuel consumption over the combined cycle of 6.7 and 6.8 L/100 km.
The new, 16-valve, 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 hp/110 kW, adds power with even greater frugality. Impressive fuel economy - 5.6 L/100 km over the combined cycle - offers a potential driving range of over 1,000 km. It is fitted as standard with a maintenance-free exhaust particulate filter.
The common rail, multiple injection design includes variable geometry turbocharging (VGT). With strong torque of 320 Nm from just 2,000 rpm, this engine enables zero to 100 km/h acceleration in 10.0 seconds, and even more impressive in-gear performance, with 80-120 km/h in fifth gear in 12.5 seconds. It will be joined later in the year by a 125 hp/92 kW version.
The 1.6-liter engine is fitted as standard for base and LS variants, while the 1.8-liter is standard for LT and optional for LS. Both are available with a five-speed manual gearbox or a new six-speed automatic transmission, a segment 'first' for Chevrolet.
The 2.0-liter turbo diesel is fitted to LT variants only and the 125 hp/92 kW version will be offered for base and LS. Both these engines are available only with manual transmission.
For all engine applications, a universal front sub-frame, carrying the engine and transmission, is bolted in position via four rubber bushings. This 'isolated' mounting helps reduce the transmission of engine vibration and road noise into the cabin.

Suspension, Brakes, Steering
Chevrolet Cruze's suspension, braking and steering systems have been developed on European roads to meet European driving tastes. Striking a balance between agility and ride comfort, Chevrolet Cruze offers the driver a high degree of 'connectedness' while also delivering a relaxed and refined ride character.
Compared to its predecessor, Chevrolet Cruze benefits from a wider 'footprint' that contributes to more stable handling. The front track is increased to 1,544 mm (up by 64 mm) and the rear track to 1,558 mm (up 78 mm), while the 2,685 mm wheelbase is 85 mm longer. The proportionately greater increases in track enable an inherently better road-holding capability.
Front suspension is by McPherson strut, with side-load compensation to reduce sliding friction. The front sub-frame provides a firm location for the inboard mounting of the lower A-arms. Hydraulic bushings - a feature commonly found on more expensive vehicles - are used to give a higher degree of ride isolation and a more controlled absorption of road input loads.

At the rear, an advanced, compound crank (torsion beam) layout is used. Apart from enabling consistent wheel camber control, this suspension system offers savings in space and weight that are valuable for a compact segment vehicle.

The beam, double-walled and U-shaped in profile, is attached to trailing links through a patented, 'magnetic-arc' welding process. This production technology allows the beam's thickness and attachment angles to be varied according to different engine and vehicle weights, facilitating the fine tuning of roll-rate and roll-steer characteristics.

Disc brakes, ventilated at the front and solid at the rear, are fitted all round.

An all-wheel, anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control (TCS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), which controls front-to-rear braking effort, are fitted as standard (EU + 2 countries).

Electronic Stability Control (ESC), also standard (EU + 2 countries), uses both the ABS and TCS functions to gently counteract over-exuberance or misjudgments by the driver. It is also useful in helping the driver keep control during an emergency avoidance maneuver.

The rack-and-pinion steering is hydraulically power-assisted and fast-acting, with less than three turns of the wheel required lock-to-lock.

2009 Chevrolet Cruze WTCC

2011-11-20T01:59:00.000-08:00

Chevrolet Europe has shown the first glimpse of the marque's 2009 World Touring Car Championship contender. The all-new Chevrolet Cruze, which premiered at the Paris Motor Show, will continue Chevrolet's presence in the WTCC, in which the marque so far has won twelve world championship races.
Testing of the new Chevrolet Cruze WTCC race car - which is the first to start Chevrolet's new design language in Europe - has already started and is on schedule, and will continue throughout the remainder of the current season and the coming winter. Developed, built, run and driven by the same team and drivers, the Cruze will be all but guaranteed the same speed, reliability and success. The Chevrolet Cruze WTCC first competitive outing will be in Brazil at the opening round of the 2009 WTCC in Curitiba. In 2009, the WTCC will again visit twelve tracks, in South and Central-America, Africa, Europe and the Far-East.

2009 Chevrolet Stingray Concept

2011-11-20T01:47:00.000-08:00

The Chevrolet Stingray Concept design is influenced by the original Stingray race car, introduced in 1959, but also draws on Corvette heritage cues from other generations. It brings them together in a futuristic shape that seems to be equal parts racecar and space ship.