Volvo XC60 Wins 2010 International Truck of the Year Award

The Volvo XC60 was named 2010 International Truck of the Year by the International Car of the Year (ICOTY) jury on December 2. The award was given to Doug Speck, President and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America, LLC at the Volvo display at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. The Volvo XC60 was chosen over 10 new crossovers, SUVs and trucks by a distinguished panel of top automotive journalists.

Volvo XC60 comes out tops

This ties a very pretty bow around whats been a truly amazing year for Volvo, commented Speck. The Volvo XC60 has not only been recognized by the media but its been extremely well received by our customers.

The 2010 Volvo XC60 has helped VCNA earn six consecutive months of year-over-year sales increases since June.

The Volvo XC60 was chosen the winner from a panel of 19 automotive media from around the U.S. and Canada representing top newspapers, magazines and websites. The jurors must consider the ICOTY mission of honoring vehicles that reflect an emotional connection between car and consumer lifestyles when making their nominations.

The ICOTY awards are not centered on power and performance, said Courtney Caldwell, ICOTYs creator and executive producer. Its about how cars reflect our personalities, lifestyles and self image, an attitude most consumers identify with.

This is one of the most prestigious car awards in the world and we feel very proud to receive it for our best-selling XC60″, said Stephen Odell, President and CEO Volvo Car Corporation.

Voting Criteria

Once approved by the ICOTY nominating committee, the awards jury then bases their decision on a number of important criteria: The vehicle must be new or substantially revised, it must be offered for sale to the general public by the judging deadline of November 16, 2009, and may not have been previously considered for the ICOTY Awards.

The International Truck of the Year award marks the 20th accolade the Volvo XC60 has received since sales began in Europe in late 2008. The Volvo XC60 is the first vehicle to offer City Safety as standard equipment. This unique Volvo technology can help the driver avoid frontal collisions at low speed. If the driver is about to drive into the rear of a vehicle and does not react in time, the Volvo XC60 will apply the brakes by itself.

Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the year

The Audi A3 TDI has been named the Green Car of the Year for 2010. As fuel efficiency becomes more and more of an important factor for car buyers, car manufacturers around the world are competing to make their cars as low on fuel consumption as possible. Added to this concern is the impact of cars on the environment. The carbon emissions needs to be as low as possible, and being “Green” has become more and more important.

Audi A3 TDI sets example in luxury class

The prize was given to the Audi A3 TDI during the Los Angeles Auto Show. What makes the award even more impressive is that the Audi A3 TDI is in the luxury class, which is not necessarily a class that often takes too much notice of fuel consumption.

The Audi A3 TDI has a highway mpg rating of 42 which makes it the best fuel efficiency of any luxury car in America. It maintains these impressive stats while still being fun and sporty and incredibly popular among new and second-hand buyers.

New Audi A8 shines in luxury sedan segment

Fascinating sportiness, innovative technology and superior comfort: Audi is bringing the next generation of the A8 to the starting line. The new Audi A8 flagship demonstrates the brands proverbial Vorsprung durch Technik with its light aluminum body, its powerful and highly efficient engines, the further improved MMI operating system, new driver assistance systems, the full LED headlights and an elegant interior with a craftsmans level of workmanship. With all this technology the new Audi A8 offers the perfect synthesis of dynamics, perfection in design, workmanship and pioneering efficiency.

Sporty luxurious mix for new Audi A8

The new Audi A8 is the sportiest sedan in its segment, says Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. It combines numerous functions in a new and intelligent way. And its unmatched in the stylistic elements and impression of the interior.

The new luxury sedan, to arrive at U.S. dealerships in late 2010, is a technical work of art. Its elegant and forceful body is an aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF), weighing about 40 percent less than a comparable steel structure. The interior is captivating, with its new and spacious design and uncompromisingly high-quality workmanship full of attention to the smallest detail. The comfort on board is first class from new, emotionally charged ambient lighting to the luxurious, power adjustable seats in the rear.

Engine Performance

Superior power and high efficiency the new Audi A8 makes its debut on the market with a strong V8 engine. With 372 hp, they never fail to impress with their superior power and mighty but discreet propulsion. All engines feature direct fuel injection, and consume 15 percent less fuel than their respective predecessors.

The engine in the new Audi A8 has intelligent elements from Audis modular efficiency system on board. During deceleration the recuperation system converts the kinetic energy to electric power, which is buffered in the battery. In the innovative thermal management a computer monitors numerous actuators for the ideal distribution of the heat flows between the engine, transmission and interior in any situation. After the cold start the engine is temporarily fully uncoupled from the cooling circuit, considerably shortening the warm-up phase with its high loss of friction.

The 4.2 FSI draws 273 kW (372 hp) of power from 4,163 cm3 displacement, generating its maximum of 445 Nm (328.22 lb-ft) torque at 3,500 rpm. It accelerates the new Audi A8 from zero to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, with the propulsion ending (as in all engine variants) at the electronically controlled speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

The most important reason for this enhanced power is the reduction of internal friction, especially in the chain drive for the camshafts and auxiliaries. The controlled oil pump with changeover between two pressure stages operates with high efficiency. Like all gasoline engines from Audi, the V8 has FSI direct injection. It allows a high compression of 12.5:1, for increased power and efficiency.

Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid delivered to Yamaguchi Prefectural Government

HIROSHIMA, JapanMazda Motor Corporation today delivered one Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid vehicle to the Yamaguchi prefectural government in western Japan. The Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid features a unique hybrid system and a hydrogen rotary engine (RE) that burns hydrogen as a fuel.

Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid for Eco-friendly motoring

Mazda has now delivered four hydrogen hybrid vehicles to fleet customers. One unit was leased to Iwatani Corporation in May 2009, followed by one unit each leased to the City of Hiroshima and Hiroshima Prefecture in September 2009. The Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid leased to Yamaguchi Prefecture will be used at environmental events and in daily operations.

The Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid uses a unique hybrid system with power delivered to the vehicles wheels by an electric motor. This powertrain substantially enhances the driving performance and boosts the hydrogen fuel driving range to 200 kilometers, twice the range of Mazdas previous hydrogen vehicle, the RX-8 Hydrogen RE. The Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid can run on gasoline as well as hydrogen thanks to a dual-fuel system that was developed for the RX-8 Hydrogen RE.

Based on its long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, Mazda is committed to pursuing harmony between driving pleasure and environmental and safety features. Mazda constantly strives to offer vehicles that look inviting to drive, are fun to drive, and make you want to drive them again.

Alfa Romeo 8C Spider in high demand

Extreme, exclusive, refined. Meet the Alfa Romeo 8C Spider, the car everyone wants. No fewer than 1800 orders rained in, on spec, as soon as it arrived. In Alfa Romeo we were forced to make a painful decision and establish that 80 cars will be sent to Italy, 100 to Germany, 40 to United States, 40 to the United Kingdom, 50 to Japan and the remainder to Russia, the Arab Emirates and Asia.

Super performance in Alfa Romeo 8C Spider

The Alfa Romeo 8C Spider is a gem of style, technology and performance: a road car that peforms like a racing car. The 450 HP 4.7 litre, eight cylinder engine can reach a top speed of 292 kilometres per hour and accelerate from zero to one hundred in 3.7 seconds. Other exclusive details include a steel frame and carbon body.

On the road price: EUR 213 – 250.

BMW Sauber F1 Team sale secures bright future

BMW AG has reached an agreement with Peter Sauber regarding the sale of the BMW Sauber F1 Team. The contract is subject to the condition that the team has a starting place for the 2010 Formula 1 season.

Sale in best interests for BMW Sauber F1 Team

Dr Klaus Draeger, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG with responsibility for Development, stated this morning: We are very happy with this solution. This fulfils the most important requirement for a successful future for the team. Our relationship with Peter Sauber has always been excellent and marked by absolute respect. We would like to express our thanks to Peter Sauber and the whole team for the excellent cooperation during the recent four years.

Peter Sauber added: I am very relieved that we have found this solution. It means we can keep the Hinwil location and the majority of workplaces. I am convinced that the new team has a very good future in Formula One, whose current transformation with new framework conditions will benefit the private teams. Our staff here are highly competent and motivated, and I look forward to taking on this new challenge together with them. I would like to thank BMW for four shared years that have in the main been very successful.

Nissan announces first Fuel Cell Vehicle lease in North America

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Nov. 24, 2009) Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced the lease of an X-TRAIL Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV) to Sacramento Coca-Cola Bottling Co., Inc. Nissan, which began development of fuel cell vehicle technology in 1996, has previously used FCVs in demonstration fleets in Japan and in California through the California Fuel Cell Partnership (CaFCP), but this is Nissans first commercial FCV lease in North America. The Sacramento Coca-Cola lease is for one year, with an option for two additional years.

Sacramento already has the beginning of a hydrogen infrastructure in place, and Sacramento Coca-Cola has a track record of utilizing low emissions cars, so the two companies share a green philosophy as well as a common love of things zero, said Eric Noziere, vice president, Corporate Planning, NNA

Zero Emissions for Nissan X-TRAIL Fuel Cell Vehicle

The zero emissions X-TRAIL Fuel Cell Vehicle is being used by the bottler for sales calls and public events in the Sacramento area in promotion of its Coca-Cola Zero® soft drink. This is a big step in furthering our commitment to environmental sustainability, said Bob Brown, executive vice president of Sacramento Coca-Cola. We are really excited about the promise of fuel cell technology.

Nissans comprehensive fuel cell research and development program is part of a range of eco-friendly technologies including FCVs, electric vehicles, hybrid and improved internal combustion engines being pursued under the Nissan Green Program 2010, a plan focused on developing new technologies, products and services leading to real-world reductions in CO2 emissions, cleaner emissions and expanded recycling of resources.

The Nissan X-TRAIL Fuel Cell Vehicle is based on the X-TRAIL SUV, which is available in Mexico, Japan and Europe. It is fitted with a Nissan-developed compact fuel cell stack, a compact Lithium-ion battery and a high-pressure hydrogen storage cylinder. Performance is close to that of a similarly sized internal combustion engine-based vehicle. Versions of this generation X-TRAIL FCV are capable of speeds in excess of 95 miles per hour, with a cruising range of up to 300 miles.

Ford Everest 3.0 TDCI XLT 4×4 (2009) Driving Impression

Given South Africans’ love of all things outdoors, the success of the double-cab pick-up in this market is very easy to understand. Similarly, the desirability of a bakkie-based SUV seems pretty much a given, especially given the success of vehicles such as the Isuzu Frontier and locally developed Nissan Sani in the past.

However, it has only really been Toyota that has been quick to cash in on this genre with its Fortuner, a vehicle that has been a phenomenal success from the word go. But the competition is catching up… Mitsubishi has launched a Triton-based competitor (the Pajero Sport), and now Ford has launched its Ranger-based Everest. Sporting attractive pricing, can the latter spoil the Toyota’s party?

Old-fashioned design

The Ford Everest 3.0 TDCi XLT 4×4 is clearly of an older design than the Fortuner, looking more like a station wagon version of a Ranger double-cab. By contrast the Fortuner’s looks are better integrated. That said, the Everest is not unattractive, and certainly imposing. It is a very long vehicle, made even longer by the fitment of a spare wheel on the tailgate. With a 255 mm ground clearance and riding on striking 17-inch alloy wheels, the Everest has lots of presence.

The big body translates into a very spacious cabin, bigger even than the Fortuner’s. Unlike the Toyota, which features two fold-up rear seats that impinge badly on luggage space, the Everest has a solid bench, which can be easily removed, something that can’t be easily done with the Toyota’s individual rear seats. That’s just as important as the fact that rear legroom for third-row passengers is impressive.

Of course, with the rear seats occupied, the boot space is limited… more so than in the Fortuner. The good news continues in the second row… legroom here is excellent, too. That makes the Everest a really spacious and practical family hold-all, because it seats five passengers very comfortably, allowing for the rear bench to be removed, which in turn frees up massive luggage space. So far, so good.

Unfortunately, matters turn decidedly pear shaped in the front of the cabin… Facing the driver is a dashboard that comes straight from the Ranger. This is not an altogether bad thing, as it looks suitably upmarket and modern enough. But spend more than a couple of minutes behind the wheel and some irritations come to light.

For example, the driving position is rather flawed, because the seat lacks height-adjustment and the steering wheel can’t be moved telescopically. The problem is compounded by a high floor, which results in a somewhat unnatural seating position (high knees). It is possible to get used to this seating position, but it is certainly not ideal.

Also showing the Everest’s “technological” age is the fitment of a handbrake lever in the traditional, old-fashioned bakkie-position below the facia rather than the more modern “pull-up” type on the centre console floor. And the controls for the ventilation system are of the old-fashioned rotary knob type, too.

Build quality is good, though, and there’s a disarming lack of pretence about the Everest’s cabin that can be refreshing. But the choice of light beige upholstery for what is likely to be a family vehicle that will often see a dirt road is simply not ideal. At least the carpets are black.

Strong go

Powered by the same, refined, 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine that does duty so effectively in the Ranger, the Ford Everest 3.0 TDCI XLT 4×4 has 115 kW and 380 Nm of torque at its disposal, figures that compare well with the Toyota and others. With a weight of two tonnes, the Everest is never going to be a brisk sprinter, but generally the performance is satisfactory, especially as speeds rise, when both the overtaking power and refinement really come to the fore. It is also relatively economical, with a consumption figure of below 10 litres/100 km for such a big vehicle being more than acceptable.

Clearly then, the engine is not to blame for the cumbersome on-road dynamics. Rather, a quick glance at the specification sheet will identify the two major culprits… Firstly, the Everest uses a solid axle at the rear with leaf springs (as in a bakkie), and the steering is of the outdated recirculating ball and nut type. Consequently the Everest’s steering is very vague and slow, while the body movements are poorly controlled. Ride comfort in a straight line is acceptable, but corners soon upset its composure, as does a deterioration in the quality of the road surface.

It is significantly better off the beaten track. Here the long-travel suspension, high ground clearance and good low-down grunt make it a capable adventure machine, mostly because the speeds are lower.

The Everest’s five-speed manual transmission sends power to the rear wheels, but a separate lever on the centre console allows for four-wheel drive selection (high and low range). Sadly, there’s no diff-lock, but an electronic limited slip differential is fitted. Overall, the Everest is likely as good off-road as most owners will need it to be.

Verdict

Although the Everest is a fair bit cheaper than a Fortuner, the Toyota remains worthy of the extra cash not only due to its higher features count, but also because it is the better, more refined vehicle overall. The Fortuner has been criticised in the past for its poor dynamic stability, but it feels significantly more stable on the road than the Everest. And remember the Toyota now also features electronic stability control, a spec item the Ford lacks. In conclusion then, the Ford looks and feels like an older-generation product compared with its rivals. Consequently, it faces a tough challenge.

We like:

Massive cabin, with true seven-seat capability

Refined, powerful engine

We don’t like:

Dated facia

Impractical upholstery

Driving position

Wallowy ride

Lack of safety features

Fast facts

Engine: 3.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel

Power: 115 kW @ 3 200 rpm

Torque: 380 Nm @ 1 800 rpm

Transmission: five-speed automatic

Wheels: 16-inch alloy

Top speed: 166 km/h

0-100 km/h: N/A seconds

Fuel economy: <10 litres/100 km

Also consider:

Toyota Fortuner 3.0 D-4D 4×4:

Massively popular for obvious reasons – it boasts the proven underpinnings of the Hilux, but adds an attractive SUV body, seven seats and a good specification level. When stowed the rearmost seats impinge on luggage room, and they can’t be easily removed.

Chevrolet Captiva 2.0 VCDi LTZ:

A smaller vehicle, but a seven-seater nonetheless. The Captiva is really a slightly bigger crossover, and consequently its unibody construction gives it better refinement. The cabin is more car-like, too. On the downside, it is not as off-road capable as the Ford and Toyota.

Kia Sorento 2.2 4×4 7-seat:

This attractive unibody offering is similarly priced and boasts significantly higher levels of refinement as well as superb performance and on-road comfort. Of course, it also can’t match the off-road ability of the Toyota and Ford.

New BMW 5-Series is top class

The world debut of the new BMW 5-Series Sedan once again marks the epitome of aesthetic design and supreme driving pleasure in the upper mid-range segment. Through its sporty and elegant looks, driving dynamics typical of the brand, outstanding efficiency as well as innovative comfort and safety features, the sixth generation of BMWs executive sedan convincingly reflects the supreme standard of the worlds most successful manufacturer of premium cars throughout the entire process of development.

Diesel and petrol power for new BMW 5-Series sedan

The new BMW 5 Series Sedan is making its debut with one eight-cylinder and three six-cylinder petrol engines as well as two six-cylinder diesels.

The range is rounded off by a four-cylinder turbodiesel with an aluminium crankcase and common-rail direct injection. Maximum output in this case is 135 kW, making the BMW 520d fitted as standard with Auto Start Stop the new efficiency benchmark in its segment. Average fuel consumption in the EU5 test cycle is just 5-litres/100km and CO2 emissions is rated at 132 g/km (provisional figures).

The top-of-the-range BMW 550i comes with an eight-cylinder boasting BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and High Precision Injection for maximum output of 300 kW.

Design features

Charismatic, elegant and sporty defines the design of the new BMW 5-Series.With the longest wheelbase in the segment, a long and sleek engine compartment lid, short overhangs front and rear and a coupé-like, graceful roofline, the new BMW 5-Series sedan stands out clearly from the competition.Overall, the aesthetic looks of the car are clearly determined by perfectly balanced proportions. Design features typical of the brand are to be found both at the front with its BMW kidney grille inclined slightly forward and on the strikingly chiselled engine compartment lid, in the stylish and elegant side view of the car, and on the muscular rear end.Within the interior, modern function and a superior ambiance come together in perfect harmony, unmistakable style and clear orientation to the driver in the cockpit guaranteeing a truly unique driving and travelling experience.

Innovative driver assistance systems with BMW ConnectedDrive

The driver assistance systems offered for the first time in the context of BMW ConnectedDrive include a Parking Assistant, Surround View, collision warning with application of the brakes in conjunction with Active Cruise Control plus Stop & Go and a new Speed Limit Device. Further features also available are Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, a Head-Up Display, BMW Night Vision with detection of individual persons, and a back-up camera.

Peugeot 207 1.4 Active (2009) Driving Impression

Judged against its predecessors, and coming as it does from a company that has such a proud tradition of making compact hatchbacks that offer both bags of charm and an engaging driving experience, the 207 must rate as somewhat of a disappointment to Peugeot fans the world over. Whereas its direct 205 and 206 predecessors were practical, but also nippy little runabouts, the Peugeot 207 1.4 Active tries to be a cushy, quasi-premium hatchback loaded with features.

Consequently, it is rather overweight, a factor that has counted heavily against it from the word go, because its 65 kW 1.4-litre engine was simply not up to the task. Now Peugeot has added variable valve timing to the engine, and upped the power and torque outputs to 70 kW and 136 Nm respectively. Has this put some fire into the little Lion’s belly?

Subtle styling revisions

The engine upgrade coincides with the 207’s mid-life refresh, but you’d be hard-pressed to notice the changes. The grille is subtly different, and the front-end also gains some fake air inlets lower down, supposedly to endow the little Peugeot’s face with a hint of aggression. At the rear the lights have been neatened up, and now incorporate LEDs. To some extent the small changes are understandable, because the 207 has never been an unattractive car. This Active specification model boasts a neat exterior treatment, at least partly because the plastic wheel covers do a very good job of looking like proper alloy items!

The interior remains a mixed bag. First impressions are very good, because the upper section of the facia moulding is soft to the touch, and the aluminium trim surrounds for the ventilation outlets, audio system display and instrumentation dial look very convincing. In this latest model there have been further improvements – the controls for the ventilation system have been upgraded, for example – and there’s a feeling of solidity about the cabin that is very comforting. However, starting poking the plastics lower down in the interior, and you’ll notice a sharp dive in tactile quality.

Space up front is excellent and in typical Peugeot fashion the seats are almost over-sized “lounge” items. The driver’s seat offers height-adjustment, and the steering wheel is rake/reach adjustable, so a comfortable driving position is very nearly a given for anyone. Unfortunately those seated in the back are less lucky – legroom is rather cramped and there are also no electric windows. That said, the overall specification level is not bad, with an audio system (with auxiliary input), air-conditioning, electric front windows, front and side airbags and even cruise control being included. The boot, by the way, is one of the bigger ones in this segment, and includes a full-size spare wheel.

Extra muscle?

Although Peugeot still offers less powerful (54 kW) 207 models equipped with 1.4-litre engines, this new variable valve timing-equipped number takes on such vehicles as the Mazda2, Hyundai i20 and Opel Corsa… cars that all pack around 70 kW. So, with 70 kW and 136 Nm of torque, the figures are certainly competitive.

Unfortunately, not much could be done to the 207’s weight, so the new engine, extra muscle and all, doesn’t really turn the 207 into a little robot racer. That’s not the point, of course, but the fact that it still feels noticeably more lethargic than its main rivals, certainly is. As it stands, owners will have to use that five-speed manual transmission often to keep the engine on the boil, but this is no hardship, seeing as gearshifts are light and accurate. In faithful

Peugeot tradition, the shift action is rather long. The new engine does do exceptionally well in terms of fuel economy, with a figure of 5.9 litres/100 km not being entirely a pipe-dream. Normal day-to-day driving should see a figure of around 7 litres/100 km being achievable.

The 207 continues to impress with its ride refinement. It soaks up bumps like big Peugeot sedans of old, with the cabin remaining a quiet, comfortable place even when road conditions worsen. In that sense, it is a true Pug. But the weight and very comfort-oriented suspension do rob it of the agility that was the hallmark of cars such as the 205, 206 and even 306. There’s a woolliness to the steering and a top-heavy feel that make the driver feel somewhat removed from the action. If this is not a priority to you, then you’ll love the 207’s serene driving experience.

Verdict

The new engine has brought little meaningful change to the 207 1.4. Yes, it’s a bit more responsive low-down than before and the economy is very good indeed, but in character it remains a car that will mostly be enjoyed by a relaxed, unhurried driver. Of far more importance is the addition of a four-year/60 000 km service plan to the deal. That will go a long way to allaying any fears there may be when considering the purchase of a French car. Mindful of that particular addition, the 207 suddenly looks a great deal more attractive. It’s very comfortable, well-specified, refined and economical. Fun is still not on the list, but there are many potential customers out there who won’t care.

We like:

Refinement

Driving comfort

Facia design

Standard features

Service plan

We don’t like:

Still down on power due to weight

Rear legroom is limited

Fast facts

Engine: 1.4-litre, four-cylinder, petrol

Power: 70 kW @ 6 000 rpm

Torque: 136 Nm @ 4 000 rpm

Transmission: five-speed manual

Wheels: 15-inch steel

Top speed: 185 km/h

0-100 km/h: 11.5 seconds

Fuel economy: 5.9 litres/100 km

Also consider:

Mazda2 1.3 Dynamic:

More expensive, but then it also does boast extra features. The performance figures suggest it’s not much nippier than the rest, but it feels more agile. Build quality is good, too.

Hyundai i20 1.4:

Very well-priced and already deservedly popular but ultimately not as comfortable and refined as the Peugeot, with especially road noise intruding. Lacks the Peugeot’s features.

Toyota Yaris T3+:

A slightly smaller offering, and also has less power, but the performance is broadly similar to the other cars here. Feels noticeably more “lightweight” than the others but quality has proven to be good.