Mini Coupe, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Mini Coupe, 2012

The MINI Coupé's mission is a simple one; to maximise the thrill of being behind the wheel. Keen drivers will be rewarded with a level of handling agility unmatched in the small car segment. Every aspect of the MINI Coupé - from the choice of engines and chassis set-up to weight distribution and aerodynamics - is focused on delivering the optimum dynamic performance. To prove the point, the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé has the fastest acceleration and top speed of any volume-produced MINI to date.

Striking styling meets practicality
Key to the MINI Coupé's appeal is its stunning exterior design, unlike anything else in the compact sports car segment. Immediately identifiable as part of the MINI family, it's a genuine and appealing re-interpretation of the classic MINI design cues which have become so familiar on UK roads in the last decade. The car's design language - the clever combination of athletically sculpted surfaces, harmonious curves and parallel lines - takes the brand's styling in an exciting new direction, with a fresh and clear emphasis on the marque's sporting DNA.

The MINI Coupé is an innovative new vehicle. It's the first modern MINI to adopt the traditional 'three-box' body structure, splitting the car into distinct segments - the engine compartment, cabin and boot. While the overall length and width are almost identical to the dimensions of the MINI Hatch, the Coupé's overall height is 29 millimetres lower. Visually, this and the stepped rear end give the car a more aggressive, forward-thrusting profile. The lower roofline doesn't come at the expense of driver and passenger comfort, though. Oval recesses in the headlining provide extra headroom, perfectly illustrating MINI's 'no compromise' ethos.

The styling team led by Head of Design Anders Warming has given the MINI Coupé a distinctive appearance from every angle. The most striking view is undoubtedly the profile, with horizontal layering of the car into three separate tiers - the body, the wrap-around glass and the eye-catching 'helmet design' roof. The A-pillars and windscreen are sharply raked by 13° compared to the MINI Hatch, resulting in a smaller frontal area that gives the MINI Coupé excellent aerodynamic properties.

Air flow is also optimised by the integrated spoiler at the rear of the roof, and via a unique active rear spoiler housed in the bootlid. It deploys automatically when the car reaches 50mph - and drops down again at 37mph - but can be operated manually via a button in the overhead control panel. The Coupé is the first MINI in history to feature an active rear spoiler, which reduces lift at the rear axle to improve aerodynamic balance and road grip.
MINI enthusiasts will immediately recognise the interior of the Coupé. The much-loved large central circular speedo, chrome toggle switches and numerous other MINI trademark features are all present in the two-seater cabin.

Behind is a spacious 280-litre luggage area - 20 litres larger than the MINI Clubman - easily accessible by the driver or passenger from inside the cabin as well as externally via the boot. The large, high-opening tailgate makes for simple loading and the car offers excellent cargo-carrying possibilities that will suit a wide range of needs. Whether it's for daily routine, fun weekend leisure trips or more adventurous touring for two, the MINI Coupé is ideal transport.

Tried and tested engines
Power for the MINI Coupé comes from the latest generation of BMW Group four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. Outputs range from 122 hp/90 kW in the MINI Cooper Coupé to 211 hp /155 kW in the highly desirable flagship MINI John Cooper Works Coupé. The recently launched performance diesel engine, the 143 hp/105 kW Cooper SD, is also available and the line-up is completed with the Cooper S which offers 184 hp /135kW.
Fuel economy on the combined cycle stretches from 39.8mpg in the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé to a frugal 65.7mpg in the Cooper SD model, while CO2 emissions are as low as just 114g/km on the Cooper SD. Even the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé emits only 165g/km. The full technical specification for each model is given below.

In the MINI Coupé, engine power is converted into pure driving fun more directly and comprehensively than ever before. This car is the clearest illustration yet of MINI's legendary sporting DNA being transposed into a cutting-edge new vehicle. The MINI Coupé provides a complete re-interpretation of what a contender in the compact sports car class should offer the driver.
The MINI Coupé takes the legendary go-kart handling of every new MINI to a new high. That each of the four model variants carries the Cooper name in its designation is indicative of MINI's faith in the performance credentials of its newest car. Traditionally, this badge has been a sign of outstanding sporting ability and a nod to the brand's long-time association with legendary Formula One designer John Cooper.
A level of chassis quality unmatched in the small car segment gives the new MINI model the handling flair you would expect from the brand. Designed to be the ultimate expression of go-kart handling, the car's suspension system provides a fun-filled, sharp and agile driving experience.

With a multi-link axle at the rear and MacPherson strut suspension up front, the outstanding quality of the chassis engineering, steering and brake system ensures confident control of the vehicle at all times, even when pushed hard in dynamic situations. Compared to the MINI Hatch the Coupé is also equipped with optimised springs and dampers and an uprated rear anti-roll bar to further enhance its sporting credentials.
Work to enhance overall body rigidity has seen a slight forward shift in the MINI Coupé's weight distribution compared with the MINI Hatch. This has major benefits for vehicle dynamics because the slight increase in front axle load increases traction, helping to ensure engine power is effortlessly translated into sporty acceleration.

A low centre of gravity, a long wheelbase measuring 2,467 millimetres, and a front and rear track width of 1,459 mm and 1,467 mm respectively also contribute to the sure-footed handling. DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) is standard across the MINI Coupé range and makes an important contribution to safe and agile handling. In extreme driving situations and on slippery surfaces the system can selectively brake individual wheels and reduce engine power to prevent a front or rear-end slide at the earliest possible stage. The system includes integral ABS, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), CBC (Cornering Brake Control), Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist. DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) is on the options list but standard on MINI John Cooper Works Coupé.

The optional Sport Suspension has firmer damper settings and comes with uprated anti-roll bars front and rear. For a more 'hard core' racing experience, the MINI Coupé accessories range includes a John Cooper Works Suspension, with a 10 mm drop in ride height, ultra-firm damping and further upgraded anti-roll bars.
One of the main attractions of owning a new MINI Coupé will be its straight-line speed. In the case of the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé, it's a MINI record-breaking performance. With a 0-62mph sprint time of 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 149mph, it's the fastest volume-produced MINI to date on both counts.

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Mini John Cooper Works Coupe Endurance, 2011

 

 

 

 

Mini John Cooper Works Coupe Endurance, 2011

Motor sport is in the MINI genes. And now the carmaker is set to add a new chapter to its racing heritage with the arrival of the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance. The newly developed racer will line up at the 2011 24-hour race at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit.

With the participation of the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance, the Nürburgring 24-hour race will be staging an automotive world premiere for the first time in its history. At the same time, the extreme demands of the classic endurance event ensure the new MINI model will be given a baptism of fire.

MINI's declared aim in entering the Nürburgring 24-hour race is to experience the adventure of the "Green Hell", as the Nürburgring-Nordschleife is affectionately known. And the brand has called, among other things, on the experience gained over many years of MINI Challenge sprint racing in the development of its new racing car for this unique event.

A pure-bred racing set-up will equip the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance for a full day lapping the combined Nordschleife/Grand Prix circuit at race speed. Providing the power is a specially-tuned version of the series-produced MINI John Cooper Works engine. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder unit - which boasts a twin-scroll turbocharger and petrol direct injection - delivers 250 hp, and the Overboost function pushes peak torque up to 330 Newton metres. Top speed is in excess of 240 km/h.

The MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance sees the brand's customary go-kart feeling taken to a whole new level. The stiff race suspension ensures impressive roadholding and gives the driver constant, direct feedback from the road surface. Adjustable shock absorber units allow the suspension set-up to be adapted to fluctuating track conditions, a feature that will come in particularly handy at the Nordschleife.
The more steeply raked windscreen of the car's flat coupé silhouette sets it apart clearly from the Hatch and helps to minimise aerodynamic drag, which the drivers will acknowledge with a smile on the circuit's long straights.

The John Cooper Works Aerodynamics Package further enhances the Coupé's already supreme handling; the front spoiler, rear diffuser and adjustable rear wing generate downforce, optimising the balance between the front and rear axle.

The MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance achieves an exceptionally high level of safety thanks to features including a roll cage welded to the body and a sports bucket seat with six-point safety belt and Formula One-style HANS (Head And Neck Support) system. When it comes to active safety, the car adopts the proven braking system with Race ABS from MINI Challenge racing and adds a specially tuned DSC dynamic control system, likewise optimised for the race track. Plus, in the interests of safety - and rapid pit stops - the MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance is kitted out with an integrated pneumatic jack.

Technical data
=    Engine: Tuned version of series-produced MINI John Cooper Works engine with adapted engine management. Four-cylinder in-line engine (front/transverse-mounted) with twin-scroll turbocharger and petrol direct injection. Racing exhaust system=    Displacement: 1,598 cc
=    Power output: Approx. 184 kW / approx. 250 hp
=    Max. torque: Approx. 330 Nm (incl. Overboost)
=    Top speed: > 240 km/h
=    Power transfer: Front-wheel drive, sequential six-speed gearbox with electronic differential lock
=    Suspension: Independent race suspension (KW Suspension) with adjustable compression and rebound, adjustable front strut brace
=    Tyres: Racing tyres (Dunlop) / slicks: 215/45 R17, wets: 205/620 R17, 17-inch racing rims (Borbet)
=    Body: John Cooper Works Aerodynamics Package, adjustable rear wing, rear diffuser acc. to regulations, pneumatic jack
=    Safety: MINI Challenge braking system with Race ABS, race-tuned DSC, welded-in roll cage, six-point safety belt, racing seat (Recaro) with HANS system, main switch concept with electronically controlled fire extinguishing equipment
=    Interior: Racing steering wheel (Sparco), Drive Data Display with shift display
=    Weight: 965 kg
=    Wheelbase: 2,467 mm
=    Tank capacity: 100 litres

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Peugeot iOn, 2011

 

Peugeot iOn, 2011

The Peugeot iOn, the 100% electric car launched at the end of 2010, Peugeot offers a concrete and accessible response to the challenges of urban mobility and environmental responsibility. With its battery and its innovative services, including Peugeot Connect (emergency call and data feedback) and Mu by Peugeot (à la carte mobility), the Peugeot iOn will be available for a monthly rental of less than €500, with a running cost of less than 1.50€ per 100km.

Peugeot is on the offensive, taking concrete action on the electric vehicle market with:
    * 2 letters of intent signed with Veolia and Greenwheels
    * a partnership with the European project Electric Vehicles for Advanced Cities
    * 2500 contacts with private customers.

The Peugeot iOn can be fully charged in 6 hours and offers a 30-minute quick charge.
Environmentally-friendly mobility: lithium-ion batteries rechargeable in six hours, quick charge in 30 minutes.

The Peugeot iOn's preferred territory. With four doors, four seats, a length of 3.48 m and a turning circle radius of 4.50 m, this 100 % electric Peugeot develops a maximum power of 47 kW (64 bhp) and a torque of 180 Nm, offering a level of performance perfectly suited to 90% of car journeys, with in particular:

    * a maximum speed of 130 kph
    * a comfortable range of 130 km in the European standardised cycle
    * lithium-ion batteries rechargeable in six hours using a traditional 220 V socket,
    * a 30-minute quick charge system ensuring 80 % capacity.

Peugeot iOn

These characteristics make this "zero emission" city run-around very versatile to use, comparable in terms of performance and capacity to a small conventionally powered vehicle.

The inside the vehicle:
    * Peugeot Connect authorises the emergency call, of which Peugeot is the leader in Europe, but also feedback of valuable data for professional fleet management: battery status, mileage, distance before next service.
    * Mu by Peugeot, currently being deployed in Europe, providing easy access to products and accessories in the Peugeot range: cars, light commercial vehicles, scooters, bicycles...

Accessible mobility: Peugeot is off to a flying start on the emerging electric vehicle market.
At the Brussels Motor Show, Peugeot signed two letters of intention (L.O.I.) with Veolia and Greenwheels, companies operating in Europe, with a view to the purchase of electric vehicles and the development of mobility services.

A partnership has been agreed to join the European EVA project (Electric Vehicles for Advanced Cities), a consortium which to date brings together more than 20 European cities, car manufacturers and electricity suppliers from many countries.
Buoyed by 2500 customer contacts and this intensification of its approach to B to B customers, Peugeot is off to a flying start on the emerging electric vehicle market.
The Marque takes a new marketing step by fixing its minimum monthly rental at under €500, a simple and accessible electric offer as the vehicle's running cost is below that of a conventional vehicle.

The Characteristics
    * Urban/semi-urban vehicle 4 doors - 4 occupants, environmentally-friendly, compact and easy to handle
    * No exhaust emissions
    * Silent
    * Meeting 90 % of daily travel requirements
    * Reduced running costs: less than €1.50 per 100 km
    * Reduced servicing
    * Dimensions
          o Length: 3.480mm
          o Width: 1.475mm
          o Wheelbase: 2.550 mm
          o Height: 1.600 mm
    * Easy to handle: Turning circle radius between walls 4.5m
    * Synchronous electric motor with permanent magnets
          o Maximum power: 47 kW @ 2500-8000 rpm
          o Maximum torque: 180 Nm @ 0-2500 rpm
          o Maximum engine speed: 8500rpm
    * Maximum speed: 130kph
    * Performance (half payload)
          o 0-400 m: 19.9 s
          o 0-1000 m: 36.9 s
    * Battery, range and recharging
          o Lithium-Ion battery
          o Range: 130 km
          o Fully charged in 6 hours from an earthed domestic socket
          o Rapid charge using a special terminal from 0 to 80% in 30 minutes
    * Services
          o Peugeot Connect - thanks to a localised communication system - including Peugeot Connect SOS, for emergency calls
          o Peugeot Connect Assistance, for breakdown assistance
          o Peugeot Connect Fleet, for fleet management
          o Mu by Peugeot: à la carte mobility
    * A single specification level - 2 levels of finish
    * ABS - ESP - 6 air bags
    * Electric power steering
    * 15" alloy wheels
    * Fog lamps
    * Central locking
    * Electric windows - electrically-operated door mirrors
    * Automatic switching-on of headlamps
    * Semi-automatic air conditioning
    * RDE radio (MP3, Bluetooth, USB)
    * Telematics unit for Peugeot Connect services
    * Height-adjustable driver's seat
    * 50/50 separate and tilting rear bench seat (6 positions)
    * Isofix in both rear seats

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Peugeot Hoggar, 2011

Peugeot Hoggar, 2011

The Peugeot Hoggar demonstrates Peugeot's ambition for internationalisation and confirms the acceleration of the Marque's strategy.Designed in Brazil for the Brazilian market, this pick-up is perfectly adapted to the local clientele's expectations. It allows Peugeot to endorse and expand its status and links as a local manufacturer.
It revives the historical savoir-faire of the Marque by merging it with the future. Peugeot Hoggar subtly combines the robustness and reliability of a pick-up with the design and dynamism that distinguishes the Marque.

The Hoggar, Peugeot brings a touch of seduction and emotion to the world of Pick-ups.
The comfort and quality of the finish of Peugeot Hoggar will seduce the most exacting customer because it does not compromise function for style. This is thanks to a load volume of 1151 litres and a payload of up to 742kg, which makes this vehicle a point of reference for the market.

The name Hoggar, taken from a 2003 Peugeot Hoggar concept car, evokes a world which combines strength, durability and action.
Peugeot Hoggar, the pick-up by Peugeot, seductive, dynamic and robust targets a mainly male customer base who are looking for a versatile vehicle with a distinctive style.

The vehicle manufactured at the Porto Real factory in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Equipped with a bold and modern design, Peugeot Hoggar is a new line in exclusive cars, 207 of Brazil, after the saloon, hatchback, SW and SW Escapade versions.
With this expanding range in the Brazilian market, which is expected to grow in 2010, Peugeot aims to have a 10% market share for pick-ups over the whole year.
Peugeot Hoggar launched in the Brazilian market on the 15th of May 2010, with three trim levels and two engine sizes : 1.4 and 1.6 litre.

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Toyota Prius V, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

Toyota Prius V, 2012

The new Toyota Prius V, with "v" expressing the vehicle's versatility, will meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles while providing the same attributes traditionally found in the Prius DNA. It will share the current generation Prius' platform and Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. Featuring a compact exterior yet spacious interior, the Toyota Prius V will feature over 50-percent more interior cargo space than the current Prius.
With a balance between outstanding spaciousness, refined style, and smooth aerodynamics, Toyota Prius V has a low 0.29 coefficient of drag, which does not inhibit the vehicle's convenient packaging. It is a new vehicle designed from the ground up, with a shape that evolved from Prius rather than being an elongated version.

The exterior styling is sleek, rounded and bold, with an extended roofline that allows the vehicle to retain the triangular silhouette symbolic of Prius. The trapezoidal-shaped front features sharp-edged headlamps, wind-slipping aero corners for improved aerodynamics and an enlarged under grille, which all help create a unique design evolving from the current Prius. Toyota Prius V's rear styling is highlighted by a refined backdoor panel, intricate combination taillights and a specially designed roof spoiler that improves air flow.
Inside, the Toyota Prius V emphasizes overall proportion with spaciousness and flexibility for active families. Comfortable interior space and good visibility has been assisted by a high seating position, ample head room, and an impressive 38-inch couple distance, providing generous rear legroom. A low, wide-opening rear hatch reveals 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, making it the most spacious dedicated hybrid vehicle on the market and better than some compact SUVs.

Comfortable seating for five is specifically designed for young families. Sliding second row seats allow for easier ingress and egress and rear-storage flexibility, with a 45-degree recline for greater comfort. The 60/40 split, folding rear seats present four different seat arrangements that provide excellent usability for passengers and luggage, while a fold-flat front-passenger seat allows for extremely long cargo.
The Toyota-first, is a resin Panoramic View moonroof with power retractable sun shades that provides an open atmosphere in the cabin with a 40-percent reduction in weight as compared to conventional glass roofs of the same size, and excellent heat insulation performance.

Up front, instrument-panel controls, including a single-dial air-conditioning control and a center-mounted digital combination meter, provide an advanced look and user-friendly command. The driving controls - including the Push Button Start, parking switch, electronic shift lever, and driving mode selection - are distinguished by silver trim.

Despite the spaciousness of a family friendly midsize vehicle, the Toyota Prius V will deliver estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 42 mpg city, 38 mpg highway and 40 mpg combined, the best fuel economy ratings of any SUV, crossover, or wagon on the market. It will also emit 66-percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle.
Like the current generation Prius, the Toyota Prius V is a showcase of technology that will include many of the same standard features. Four driving modes (Normal, Power, Eco and EV) satisfy a variety of road conditions and driver preferences. A Smart Key System with Push Button Start, an electronic shift lever, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), and a back-up camera are standard. Available options include energy-efficient LED headlamps, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with a Pre-Collision System (PCS), and Advanced Parking Guidance System.

For a high level of safety, there are seven airbags, a high-strength cabin and an energy-absorbing body structure with impact beams, cross members and leg absorption pads. New driver and front-passenger seat design helps lessen possible whiplash injury during a collision.

The Prius V feature Toyota's Star Safety System standard, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. It also features the standard Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.

Toyota Prius V will be one of the first Toyotas with the Entune multimedia system. For the first time ever in an automobile, this innovative new system leverages the mobile phone to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully integrated and wireless upgradeable navigation, entertainment and information services.

Toyota Entune debuts the first-ever support for engaging mobile apps, such as Bing, OpenTable, and movietickets.com, along with accessing useful travel-related services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information (location and price), stocks, news and sports.
Toyota Entune brings the largest selection of music options available to a vehicle, including iheartradio's 750+ stations, Pandora's personalized music, the driver's personal songs from portable media players and iPods (via USB or Bluetooth audio streaming), and more than 170 stations from XM satellite radio.

Featuring a best-in-class, advanced conversational voice recognition system that helps the driver to stay focused on the road, Toyota Entune eliminates the need to memorize thousands of voice commands and helps reduce driver distraction.

The Toyota Prius V combine Entune with a standard Display Audio system rich with dynamic entertainment and communication features. The system will include HD Radio with iTunes tagging for future purchase; XM radio, weather, sports, stocks and local fuel pricing; Bluetooth hands-free phone and wireless audio; and full iPod integration including music and video.

A new evolution in hybrid vehicles with excellent cargo space and Prius' heritage of environmental performance and fuel economy, the 2012 Prius V will go on sale in late summer 2011.

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