Citroën continues to expand its DS lineup of cars. The first model-launched with the DS styling was the DS3, and here at the Paris Motor Show we have just gotten our first look at the all-new Citroën DS4.

The five-door hatchback shows off the new direction of Citroën styling and pushes the automaker into a new era. The DS4 will be available with a slew of engine choices that can be paired up with either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. For diesel fans, there are 110- and 160-horsepower units, however the ever-important torque figures are not yet available. Petrolheads can choose from either 120-, 155- or 200-hp gasoline-drinking variants. Word on the virtual street is that a sportier DS4 Racing model is also in the works.

We love seeing automakers push for new design styles that help refine the brand. It’s even better when they create a car that looks damn good in the process. Hop the jump to learn more about the all-new Citroën DS4.

INTRODUCING THE MULTI-TALENTED NEW CITROËN DS4

Citroën has released first details for the new DS4, a unique and attractive blend of creativity, dynamism, exclusivity and versatility. DS4 is the second model in Citroën’s distinctively-styled DS line.

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.

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).

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, DS4 is a unique and eye-catching addition to the segment.

Finely crafted to convey a prestigious presence both inside and out, 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, DS4 offers three full-sized rear seats, accessed by rear doors with hidden handles that are seamlessly integrated into the body’s flowing lines. DS4 also benefits from a capacious
370-litre boot and a host of clever storage solutions.

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.

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, 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, 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 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 DS4′s attention to premium detail.

NATURALLY DYNAMIC & AGILE
With its high-set, taut and agile stance, 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, 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, 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
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.’
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 V 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
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 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.

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, 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, 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 DS4 owners, providing complete 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.

[Source:autoblog]

Staying true to its concept form, the factory-built Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid that hit the stage at the Paris Motor Show retains the concept’s massive 22-inch wheels (Fisker says it’ll be the first production car equipped with standard 22s), sensuous styling, 403-plus horsepower rating and the company’s promise of achieving 100-plus miles per gallon in regular use. So, what’s exactly different about the factory-built version? Well, the most notable exterior modification is the addition of a (blacked-out) B-pillar, which was apparently required to increase the vehicle’s structural rigidity.

Aside from the added pillar, we can’t really pick out any differences between the gorgeous concept that we laid eyes on a few years ago and this production-ready version that hit the stage in Paris. Fisker still lists a base price of $88,000 and anticipates that deliveries will begin early next year, or so it says. We hope to get up close and personal with the Karma at the upcoming LA Auto Show, but for now, hit up that high-res gallery of live shots that just came in from Paris and hop the jump for more info from Fisker.

FISKER AUTOMOTIVE UNVEILS FIRST FACTORY-BUILT KARMA PLUG-IN HYBRID

PARIS, France – September 30, 2010: Anticipation and excitement has grown at Fisker Automotive and with the general public wanting to see the production Karma. Today, Fisker Automotive unveiled the first factory built luxury plug-in Karma at the Paris Motor Show.

“This vehicle represents our goal of bringing an eco-friendly vehicle founded on the principals of ‘Pure Driving Passion’ to consumers around the world,” said CEO Henrik Fisker.

The message has always been clear – designing a beautiful vehicle utilizing innovative technology provides freedom to the driver, versus containment – fusing green technology with energy independence. It also involves an unwavering commitment to purity. When sourcing environmentally conscious and sustainable materials, if Fisker designers and engineers felt the existing technologies did not meet their exacting standards, they developed new, superior approaches that have resulted in several proprietary designs.

One of these unique technologies is the world’s largest continuous solar panel roof for an automobile. This beautiful, sculptural form captures the power of the sun to help power the Karma.

The pursuit of pure design also led Fisker to create one of the most sustainable and accountable interiors in automotive history.

To process the leather for the Karma’s interior a 100% sustainable manufacturing strategy is used, resulting in one of the highest yields in the industry. This process is conducted at the world’s first energy self-sufficient, closed loop leather manufacturing plant where both gas and electricity are generated on-site from by-products of the leather making process.

The Karma’s interior wood wings and accents are also unique and sustainable – sourced from certified fallen, sunken and rescued wood to create a luxurious sensory experience inspired by nature.

Fisker Automotive’s commitment to purity throughout the Karma reflects its dedication to introducing sustainability and accountability to luxury automotive design – Responsible Luxury.

To date, Fisker Automotive has nearly 70 patents and patents pending for the Karma – a very good reason to have kept the Karma’s technical detail under wraps.

From Concept to Reality, Unchanged

Designed by Fisker Automotive co-founder, CEO and executive design director Henrik Fisker, the four-door, four-passenger Karma combines world-class style with better efficiency and lower emissions than today’s best hybrids to deliver an uncompromised, premium vehicle that sets the tone for the future of driving. Mr. Fisker is responsible for designing some of the most desirable and iconic luxury sports cars of the modern era, including the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Aston Martin DB9, BMW Z8 and Artega GT.

With exotic car looks, sports car performance, an achievable annual average economy of 2.4L/100 km (100 mpg) and emissions of just 83g/km, the 300 kW (403 hp/408 PS) Fisker Karma is the only truly responsible alternative to traditionally powered luxury cars.

True to Fisker’s goal of bringing the Karma concept to reality in its original form, the production car retains, and even adds to, all of the original concept’s elegant design, dramatic proportion and unique features.

“Too often concept cars are just that – concepts,” Henrik Fisker said. “As car enthusiasts we wanted to see all that excitement and imagination make it to production. It’s what keeps us in love with cars. I feel our team has succeeded in every way.”

Most notable is the Karma’s athletic appearance. At 4.99 meters (196.7 in) long, 1.98 meters (78.1 in) wide and just 1.33 meters (52.4 in) high, the Karma’s final dimensions remain virtually the same as the concept’s.

A long hood — accentuated by a large dash-to-axle ratio — and short deck give the Karma a timeless silhouette. Its expansive (3.16 m/124.4 in) wheelbase, short (913/923 mm – 35.9/36.3 in f/r) overhangs and wide (1.69/1.70 m – 66.6/67.0 in f/r) track reinforce the Karma’s performance orientation even when standing still.

Also retained from the concept are the 22-inch aluminum-alloy ‘Circuit Blade’ wheels and the world’s largest spherically curved, monolithic solar roof panel, which communicate the car’s advanced technology and environmental purpose. The Fisker Karma is the first car to be equipped with 22-inch wheels as standard equipment.

In addition, the production Karma keeps the concept’s complex parting lines around front and rear fascias, along with the industry’s tightest tire-to-wheel arch relationship. These details enhance the Karma’s overall design and set it further apart from its competitors.

The most significant visible exterior change is the addition of B-pillars, which increase the Karma’s structural rigidity and help it meet global crash protection requirements.

Unique to the segment is the Karma’s absence of external window frames between rear door-glass panes, which improves aesthetics and reduces wind noise.

While the Karma Command Center™ — the industry’s first and, at 25 cm (10.2 in), largest haptic feedback touch screen – elegantly consolidates into a single location controls for automatic dual-zone climate, audio/infotainment, phone, navigation and vehicle systems.

Like the concept, the production Karma has a four-seat cockpit with a large center console running from the dashboard to the rear seatback, which houses the rechargeable Lithium ion battery.

This console incorporates intuitive gear selector buttons in place of the original shifter, as well as electric window controls, seat heater switches, storage and four cup holders.

Advanced Technology Plug-in Hybrid Power

Under the skin, Fisker’s exclusive Q-Drive® plug-in hybrid electric powertrain technology combines world class performance with industry-leading economy and the lowest emissions.

With 300 kW of power and more than 1,300 Nm (981 lb-ft) of torque at zero rpm the electrically-driven Fisker Karma can quickly reach Autobahn speeds, yet achieve better annual average fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions than nearly any other production car.

Karma drivers will not be concerned about Range Anxiety. By leveraging the world’s existing gasoline infrastructure, the Fisker Karma has a total range of 480 km (300 mi).

Eighty kilometers (50 mi) are electric-only and tailpipe-emission free when powered only by its 20 kWh Lithium ion battery, which can be recharged in as little as six hours on standard 240-volt current.

When the battery is depleted, or when the driver engages Sport mode, the Karma’s 2.0L, turbocharged four-cylinder Ecotec® gas engine automatically turns a 175 kW generator that sends electricity to two 150 kW (201.5 hp/204 PS) electric traction motors mounted directly to the rear differential.

This single speed gearbox ensures a smooth, constant delivery of power to the wheels without hesitation, all the way to the Karma’s top speed of 200 kmh (125 mph).

World Class Manufacturing

While Fisker Automotive is globally headquartered in Southern California, the Karma will be built by Valmet Automotive at its state-of-the-art flexible assembly plant in Finland.

Fisker partnered with Valmet because the 41-year-old company was able to meet Fisker’s strict requirements of cost-effectively building 15,000 high quality, advanced technology vehicles per year for international markets.

Since 1969 Valmet has built more than 1.1 million vehicles for demanding customers all over the world, and currently builds Porsche Boxster and Porsche Cayman sports cars for Porsche AG.

The Fisker Karma is the world’s first premium plug in hybrid and the embodiment of the design-driven company’s firm belief that environmentally conscious cars need not sacrifice passion, style or performance.

ABOUT FISKER AUTOMOTIVE, INC.

Fisker Automotive is an American premium plug-in hybrid electric vehicle manufacturer with a mission to redefine the luxury automobile with an unwavering dedication to sustainability. Global headquarters are in Irvine, California. Acclaimed auto designer Henrik Fisker and industry veteran Bernhard Koehler established the company in 2007 to address the need for environmentally conscious vehicles that deliver passion, style and performance.

Previously, Fisker was design director and a board member for Aston Martin, as well as president and CEO of DesignworksUSA, BMW’s North American design arm. Koehler led operations for Ford’s Global Advanced Design Studio in London and created concept cars for Aston Martin, MINI and BMW.

[Source:Autoblog]

In terms of supercar hotness, the Audi R8 is indeed something special. And though we have our disagreements about Audi’s R-Tronic manu-matic transmission, the R8 never ceases to impress us with its purely awesome style and dynamics.

For this year’s Paris Motor Show, Audi brought out its limited-production R8 GT. Held to only 333 units retailing for €193,000 (about $256,000 USD), the R8 GT features a more powerful version of the automaker’s 5.2-liter V10. In addition to the boost in horsepower (560, up from 525), this hotter R8 uses carbon fiber in place of aluminum on some of the body panels. This, in addition to thinner windshield glass and polycarbonate rear windows, drops the R8 V10′s weight by 220 pounds. Slim and slender, fast and furious.

Have a look at the R8 GT for yourself in the high-res gallery of live shots below.

[Source:Autoblog]

The 2010 Paris Motor Show is a croissant’s throw away and automakers all over the globe are showing off their latest and greatest products. Now, Citroën is jumping into the fray by releasing information and images of its redesigned 2011 C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso before the cars make their official debut later this week.

The Grand C4 Picasso was originally launched in 2006 with the smaller C4 Picasso following in early 2007. Both people-movers feature upgrades inside and out. The sleekly styled C4 dives into the LED club by adding the showy daytime running light treatment to its VTR+ and Exclusive models. Also available on the Exclusive model is a Black Top option which covers the roof and A-pillars in a glossy Onyx black finish. Inside, the pair of Picassos receive a long list of standard equipment upgrades including Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port.

The real news lies under the hood – the Grand and standard C4 Picasso will be fitted with Citroën’s new e-HDi micro-hybrid technology. The fuel economy rating climbs way up to nearly 60 miles per gallon (in the EU cycle) for both models when fitted with this powertrain.

Both cars will make their debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show and we’ll be on hand to give you an up close look when they roll out. For now, satiate your French automotive needs by reading the full press release after the jump.
CITROËN C4 PICASSO & GRAND C4 PICASSO: NEW STYLING & EVEN MORE ‘CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY’
27/09/10

* Having already achieved undisputed success since their respective launches in 2006 and 2007* – with nearly 650,000 vehicles sold globally and 63,000 sales to British customers – Citroën UK has announced that C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso will feature new styling, enhanced levels of equipment and engine upgrades from October 2010.
* Both C4 Picasso ranges will also feature models specified with Citroën’s new e-HDi micro-hybrid technology, which improves fuel efficiency and lowers CO2 emissions. This will be the very first time that e-HDi equipped models will be available in the UK.
* The new C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show later this month.

NEW ELEGANT EXTERIOR DESIGN
With a fresh, new and even more elegant exterior design – as well as exceptionally bright and airy cabins, thanks to the stunning wide-angle panoramic windscreen – the award-winning range of compact MPVs boasts new styling elements including Citroën’s new chevron design on the front grille and tailgate; a new front bumper; new headlights and rear light clusters; and – on VTR+ and Exclusive models – a distinctive front LED light signature.

The best-selling VTR+ models also now feature stylish chrome side window sills and a chrome rear bumper strip, making them as stylish as they are versatile.

The C4 Picasso Exclusive’s prestigious appearance can be enhanced even further thanks to a new and unique ‘Black Top’ option. Available in conjunction with 6 body colours, this option means the roof and A-pillars are painted with a luxuriously glossy Onyx black. The exterior door handles, door mirrors and alloy wheel centre caps also receive a glossy black finish to put the final touches to what is a very premium look.

EVEN MORE EQUIPMENT AS STANDARD
The new Citroën C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso will delight drivers and families alike thanks to the perfect blend of convenience and safety, with new enhanced levels of standard equipment. All VTR+ models are upgraded to feature rear parking sensors, electrically folding mirrors, a USB socket and Bluetooth®. Similarly, all Exclusive models now benefit from stylish 17″ alloy wheel; new upholstery; USB and Bluetooth®connectivity; and the new Citroën eTouch Emergency & Assistance System.

Citroën eTouch automatically or manually makes emergency or assistance calls, using a built-in SIM card, for a rapid response in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised. Citroën’s eTouch system also allows drivers to consult information online at their ‘MyCITROËN’ personal space, which allows them monitor to their vehicle’s maintenance requirements and to receive advice on improving their fuel economy. These services are free and available 24-7.

e-HDi MICRO-HYBRID TECHNOLOGY: FOR REDUCED CO2 EMISSIONS & FUEL CONSUMPTION
Citroën’s new e-HDi micro-hybrid technology combines a second-generation Stop & Start system; a reversible alternator that recovers energy during braking; an e-booster function that re-starts the engine instantly (0.4 seconds); and a refined Euro 5 HDi 110hp DPFS engine with a 6-speed EGS transmission.

This advanced powertrain delivers combined cycle economy of up to 58.9mpg for C4 Picasso and 57.6mpg for Grand C4 Picasso, with CO2 emissions of between 125g/km and 132g/km. In built-up, urban environments, this innovative technology can lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by as much as 15%.

Both ranges also now feature a new 2.0HDi 150hp diesel engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox, which delivers driving pleasure and combined cycle fuel economy of 49.6mpg. A refined 2.0HDi 160hp with a 6-speed automatic gearbox is also newly available on Exclusive models.

UK AVAILABILITY & PRICING

The new Citroën C4 Picasso & Grand C4 Picasso will be available in the UK from 1st October, with Euro 5 compliant engines across both ranges.

C4 Picasso – Key Information:
PETROL VERSIONS CO2 Emissions g/km/MPG Combined Cycle/’On The Road’ R.R.P
1.6 VTi 120hp VTR 159/40.9/£16,345.00
1.6 VTi 120hp VTR+ 159/40.9/£17,545.00
1.6i THP 155hp EGS Exclusive 159/40.9/£20,295.00

DIESEL VERSIONS CO2 Emissions g/km/MPG Combined Cycle/’On The Road’ R.R.P
1.6HDi 110hp VTR 135/54.3/£17,945.00
1.6HDi 110hp VTR+ 135/54.3/£19,145.00
1.6 e-HDi 110hp EGS VTR+ 125/58.9/£19,845.00
2.0HDi 150hp VTR+ 149/49.6/£20,145.00
1.6 e-HDi 110hp EGS Exclusive 130/56.5/£21,295.00
2.0HDi 160hp Auto Exclusive 177/41.5/£22,895.00

Grand C4 Picasso – Key Information:
PETROL VERSIONS CO2 Emissions g/km/MPG Combined Cycle/’On The Road’ R.R.P
1.6 VTi 120hp VTR 159/40.9/£17,745.00
1.6 VTi 120hp VTR+ 159/40.9/£18,945.00
1.6i THP 155hp EGS Exclusive 162/40.4/£21,995.00

DIESEL VERSIONS CO2 Emissions g/km/MPG Combined Cycle/’On The Road’ R.R.P
1.6HDi 110hp VTR 139/53.3/£19,345.00
1.6HDi 110hp VTR+ 139/53.3/£20,545.00
1.6 e-HDi 110hp EGS VTR+ 129/57.6/£21,245.00
2.0HDi 150hp VTR+ 149/49.6/£21,545.00
1.6 e-HDi 110hp EGS Exclusive 132/56.5/£22,995.00
2.0HDi 160hp Auto Exclusive 177/41.5/£24,595.00

RELEASE NOTES:
* Grand C4 Picasso was launched in 2006, with C4 Picasso (5-seat) launched early in 2007.
[Source:Autoblog]

As if we needed another reason to salivate over the delicious little Audi A1. The Four Ring’d One has just announced that it will pull the sheets off of a new, hopped-up version of its tiniest hatch at this year’s Paris Motor Show. Here’s the important part: under the hood, there’s a 185-horsepower dual-charged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 185 lb-ft of torque. That’s right, this machine makes use of both a supercharger and a turbocharger, and as a result, Audi says that its new A1 1.4 TFSI can scoot to 60 mph in a quick 6.9 seconds.

By way of salting the wound even further, Audi says that the meanest of the A1 breed returns around 40 mpg U.S., effectively making the Honda CR-Z look both lethargic and overtly wasteful. A seven-speed DSG gearbox handles shifting duties and likely helps with that massive fuel economy number. Quattro all-wheel drive is still not available, however.

European buyers can expect to see the brawny A1 by the end of this year, where it will carry a price tag of around $31,500 at current conversion rates (though the included EU taxes inflate that figure somewhat). As usual, we won’t see it on our shores. Hit the jump to take a look at the press release and the high-res gallery below if you’re a glutton for punishment.

The Audi A1 1.4 TFSI (136 kW)
- Audi presents new top engine version for the Audi A1 at the Paris Motor Show
- 1.4 TFSI engine with 136 kW (185 hp) and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft)
- Fuel consumption of 5.9 l/100 km (39.87 US mpg), CO2 emissions of 139 g/km (223.7 g/mile)

INGOLSTADT, Germany, Sep 20, 2010 – The Audi A1, the premium car among the small compacts, has been a major success following its market debut. And now Audi is presenting the new top version – the A1 1.4 TFSI (136 kW). Its taut chassis provides sporty handling, while the dual-charged 1.4 TFSI delivers 136 kW (185 hp) of power and the S tronic dual-clutch transmission comes standard. The A1 1.4 TFSI (136 kW) also impresses with groundbreaking efficiency, consuming on average just 5.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (39.87 US mpg), which corresponds to CO2 emissions of just 139 g/km (223.70 g/mile) (provisional figures).

The A1 1.4 TFSI (136 kW) has a confident appearance. The single-frame grille, the striking roof arch, the flat C-pillar, the wrap-around engine hood and luggage hatch and the tornado line show its sporty potential even when it is at a standstill.

The A1 1.4 TFSI (136 kW) has a compact, lightweight engine with four valves per cylinder. This produces an impressive 136 kW (185 hp) and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) takes just 6.9 seconds, and the top speed is 227 km/h (141.05 mph) (performance figures are provisional).

The spontaneous response and high propulsive power, even at high speeds, are achieved thanks to its special concept – a combination of supercharger and turbocharger.

The supercharger springs into action at 1,500 rpm and in most situations is disengaged at 2,400 rpm. From 3,500 rpm at the latest, the turbocharger does all the work. Because it doesn’t have to do as much work at the low end of the rev range, the developers were able to use a large turbo and design it for high efficiency.

The 1.4 TFSI combines efficiency and dynamics. It uses on average just 5.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (39.87 US mpg) and emits 139 g CO2 per km (223.7 g/mile) (consumption figures are provisional). These excellent numbers are the product of the FSI concept, the dual charging system and also technologies from the modular efficiency platform.

The standard seven-speed S tronic transmission directs the power of the 1.4 TFSI to the front wheels. The high-end transmission is very short and light. The seven-speed S tronic is composed of two transmission structures which are operated by two multi-plate clutches. The shifting process takes place in just a few hundredths of a second and with no detectable interruption of pulling power. The tall seventh gear reduces fuel consumption.

The McPherson construction at the front and the torsion-beam rear suspension with separate springs and dampers form the basis for agile handling.

The Audi A1 1.4 TFSI (136 kW) turns in spontaneously, takes corners quickly and stably, and accelerates out of them with sure-footed grip. The brakes have the potent performance under control. The ventilated front discs measure 288 millimeters (11.34 in) in diameter.

Another specialty that comes standard for the chassis is the ESP stabilization program with electronic limited slip differential. When the system detects an impending loss of traction at the inside wheel during fast cornering, it initiates very brief braking of that wheel.

There is a comprehensive range of equipment. The safety package comprises two front airbags, thorax/pelvic side airbags and curtain head airbags. Belt tensioners and belt force limiters plus the Audi integral headrest system round out the package. Isofix child seat anchor points in the rear are standard.

Many of the options come directly from the luxury class. These are the xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, the LED tail lights, the LED interior lighting package, the high-beam assistant, the light and rain sensor, the panoramic sunroof, the convenience key with the start-stop button, two navigation systems and a 465 watt Bose surround sound system with 14 speakers. Finally, manual and automatic air conditioning systems plus heated front seats are optionally available.

The Audi A1 1.4 TFSI (136 kW) will be launched toward the end of the year at a price of €24,250. In addition to S tronic, its standard specification contains a wide range of highlights: Ambition equipment line, 17-inch wheels, S line exterior package, manual air conditioning, additional mono.pur colored interior elements, black headlining and the LED interior light package.

[Source:Autoblog]

Rumors of an even more powerful version of the Bugatti Veyron have been around almost as long as the Veyron itself. But after abating for a couple of years, now that the Veyron’s production run is winding to an end, the reports have begun creeping up again.

The gossip suggest that the Bugatti will send off the Veyron with a final run tuned to 1,200 horsepower, trimmed of 300 kilograms (660 pounds) of excess weight and capable of hitting 100 km/h (62 mph) from a standstill in 2.2 seconds en route to a 425 km/h (264 mph) top speed.

Reports further suggest that the ultimate Veyron will revive the SuperSport label used on the most powerful version of the 90s-era EB110 and the 30s-era Type 55. Only 30 examples are said to be in the pipeline, each carrying a €1.5 million ($1.8M) price tag. Sources expect the Veyron SuperSport to make its debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in the Fall, so truth or speculation, we’ll find out one way or another in a few months.

[Source: BugattiPassion.com via AutoWeek.nl]

Ssangyong, which recently attended the Paris Motor Show and showed off the C200 4-wheel-drive, is officially out of money. The company is more than $77 million (US) in debt, and no longer has the funds to pay its employees’ salaries. Ssangyong is owned by Shanghai Automotive Industries China, otherwise known as SAIC. In what could provide a cautionary tale to Volvo workers assuming Ford actually does a deal with SAIC for the Swedish brand, when Ssangyong asked SAIC for the money to pay employees, SAIC refused because Ssangyong’s internal employee’s union had earlier called for Chinese executives to resign. In the meantime, Ssangyong has merged operations and shut down all of its plants and the employees have planned a protest to make their feelings known.

[Source:Autoblog]