Suzuki Kizashi at Frankfurt 2007

Spearheading Suzuki's future plan into the (large-size) D-segment would be the Kizashi pictured above. With a droopy, goateed super-sized piano-black grille, this Suzuki's wagon prototype is the largest to date and preview a future production model the size of Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Teana or even Subaru Legacy wagon.

Undeniably bold in styling, the Kizashi has been described as an 'exciting, emotional car', with 'the lean, muscular physique of a top-class athlete' accentuated by a heavy shoulder line. Along with the 21-inch shiny turbine-vanes alloys, it looks imposing with a chunky, yet stylish presence.

Expect to see Suzuki's foray into the D-segment with a production model based on the Kizashi, sometime 2009.

Related post:

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/08/suzuki-kizashi-concept.html

Ford Kuga at Frankfurt 2007

Inspired by the Iosis X concept that was revealed at the Paris Motor Show 2006, Ford has revealed their stylish Kuga SUV at Frankfurt 2007. Based on Ford�s latest �kinetic design�, the Kuga has a rugged yet neat and tidy profile, benefitting from strong Ford Focus lineage.

It is claimed to offer impressive on-road driving dynamics with substantial off-road ability � pretty much dual abilities of all good crossover vehicles these days. This new Ford SUV features 'intelligent' 4WD and FWD driveline powered by Ford's acclaimed 2.0-litre 136ps Duratorq TDCi diesel engine.

To be produced at Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany, the Kuga is expected to go on sale early 2008 primarily in Europe - where it was designed in-house � and possibly later in other parts of the world with petrol engines instead.

New 2008 Jaguar XF

Sporting a coupe-like profile but fitted with 4 doors, the XF is a four-door Jaguar that fuses the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and comfort of a luxury saloon.

Click on images to enlarge
The new XF will be available with a choice of four engines, all featuring Jaguar's six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted 'paddles' for manual gear selection (JaguarSequential Shift):
- 2.7-litre V6 twin-turbocharged diesel: 0-100kph in 8.2secs and a top speed of 230km/h
- 3.0-litre V6 petrol: 0-100kph in 8.3secs and a top speed of 238km/h
- 4.2 V8 petrol: 0-100kph in 6.5 secs and will top out at an electronically limited 250km/h
- 4.2 Supercharged V8 petrol: 0-100kph in 5.4 secs with a top speed electronically limited to 250km/h.


Jaguar craftsmanship adopts a sharp new edge on the XF. Sophisticated instrumentation, a Touch-screen, modern materials and graphics complement new 'surprise and delight' features. Upon entry into the XF, the start button pulses red, like a heartbeat. Start the engine and the JaguarDrive Selector rises into the palm of the hand, while rotating vents turn from their flush, 'parked' position to their functional open position.

Key driving aids on the XF include Electronic Brake Assist, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Anti-lock Braking System, Dynamic Stability Control, Cornering Brake Control, and Engine Drag Torque Control. And, for the first time in a Jaguar, Understeer Control Logic which decelerates the car and helps to restore grip to the front wheels when required.

There are three levels of audio system, all controlled through the Touch-screen. The top-of-the-range Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) 440w Premium Sound System option offers extraordinary clarity and faithful sound reproduction. Designed and tuned for the XF by Bowers & Wilkins, the surround-sound system delivers a powerful and vivid performance.
Boot capacity is a generous 540 litres despite the swoopy profile.

Fans of the luxury marque will be able to get their hands on this sleek and sporty 4-door coupe beginning March 2008 in Europe with other world markets to follow later.

To view video footage:

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/09/new-2008-jaguar-xf-video.html

2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate

Click on images to enlarge

Stationwagon or estate version has always been about versatility and space. The new W204 C-Class Estate is no exception. Luggage space is a respectable 485litre with rear bench upright while a maximum of 1500litres is available for extreme load lugging, with all back seats folded down.

Powerplants offered will be the same as the C-Class Sedan, with the usual 4-cylinder Kompressor and V6 petrol, as well as CDI (turbodiesels). The top-of-the-bunch will be the 2008 C63 AMG Estate which will house the AMG hand-built V8 engine with 457hp.

European sales will begin sometime mid-September following its debut at Frankfurt International Motor Show 2007. Don�t expect to see this new C-Class variant in Malaysia anytime soon since estates are not popularly accepted by our motoring public. That said, we may see an occasional grey/ reconditioned import in say, maybe 2010 or thereafter.

Mitsubishi Concept-cX Prototype at Frankfurt 2007

Click on images to enlarge Mitsubishi Concept-cX has already taken shape ahead of the Frankfurt International Motor Show 2007 based on these released images from Mitsubishi Motor Corp. (MMC). Built on the 9th generation Lancer / new Outlander platform, the Concept-cX is equipped with a new 1.8L Clean Diesel engine with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) that churns out 136ps at 4000rpm and 280Nm of torque at 2000rpm.

Mitsubishi�s Twin Clutch SST automated manual transmission is called into service for the Concept-cX. It looks like the robotised twin-clutch gearbox will find duty in many other Mitsu vehicles other than the upcoming Lancer EVO X. Meanwhile, its electronically controlled AWD system is nicked from the new Outlander.
From these images, it appears as if the Concept-cX is near-ready for mass production, especially from cues taken from its metal body stampings. The headlights, alloy wheels & tyres, wing mirrors, dashboard and seats will likely be toned down for the final version. But will it carry the badge of the next generation Mitsubishi Colt Plus (AWD) or a rehashed crossover theme for the all-new Pajero iO?

Related posts:

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/07/mitsubishi-concept-cx.html

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/08/2008-mitsubishi-colt.html

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/07/mitsubishi-evolution-xs-twin-clutch-sst.html

All-New Audi A4 (B8) in 2008

Set to debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show 2007, the all-new Audi A4 has a host of improvements to keep it abreast of competition with the BMW 3series (E90) as well as the new Mercedes-Benz (W204) C-Class.

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Having grown up substantially over the current A4, the new B8 has a length of 4,703 mm. To put things in perspective, the current B7 measure in at 4,586mm. In tandem, its wheelbase has extended from the current 2685mm to 2808mm. In short, more cabin space is to be expected along with a capacious boot volume of 480litres.


Audi�s compact four-cylinder 1.8 TFSI, develops 160bhp and a torque of 250Nm between 1500 and 4500rpm, all from a displacement of 1798cc. The manual A4 1.8 TFSI does 8.6 seconds to 100 km/h, and maintains its thrust up to a top speed of 225 km/h. Yet according to the EU test cycle its consumption is only 7.1 l/100 km �1.1 litres per 100 kilometres better than the previous model. What we are likely to see from Euromobil in Malaysia will be the multitronic version - with continously variable transmission.

The 1.8 TFSI is a close relative of the 2.0 TFSI engine chosen three times in succession by a jury of international journalists as �Engine of the Year�. On this smaller version 0f the B8 range, direct petrol injection and turbocharging represent an ideal combination. Injection pressure has been increased to 150 bar and new direct injectors distribute the fuel accurately to the combustion chambers. The turbocharger is exceptionally rapid in its response � at an engine speed of 2000 rpm it accelerates the engine 30 percent faster to a ten percent higher torque than the conventional 1.8T engine that powered the preceeding model. For all its vigour, this four-cylinder unit runs quietly, in a most refined manner.
Audi AG has not released power/torque figures for the 2.0 TFSI engine application in the new A4.

Similar transmissions choices are carried over with the S-Tronic (DSG) still missing form the A4 line-up. As such, a six-speed manual gearbox, the tiptronic automatic transmission, the multitronic continuously variable transmission are paired with either front-wheel drive or quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

The technical features of the steel bodyshell are also evidence of the major steps forward that have been taken on the new Audi A4. The body is extremely light in weight: although almost 12cm longer and over 5cm wider than its predecessor, the bare bodyshell weighs about 10% less � an excellent starting point for a saloon car of low gross weight. The Audi A4 1.8 TFSI, for instance, tips the scales at only 1410kg.

This weight saving is due to specific use of new grades of steel that combine exceptional strength with low weight. Only these ultra-high-strength steel grades give the body the high level of rigidity needed for precise, sporty handling and good ride comfort.

Interchanging the differential and the clutch has enabled the front axle to be moved forward by 154 mm. This change, aided by moving the car�s battery to the boot, helps to achieve ideal weight distribution.

With its wide track �1564 mm at the front, 1551 mm at the rear � the A4 suggests its dynamic power even at a standstill. Audi claims the new A4 will be the sportiest car in the midsize category: agile, effortless to handle and safe at all times.

The new A4 (B8) goes on sale by November 2007 in Europe. Expect to see this in Malaysia only sometime H2 2008.

Related post:

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/05/2007-all-new-audi-a4-b8.html

You may want to read this:

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/07/audi-quattro-27-years-and-counting.html

2008 Subaru WRC Concept

Click on images to enlarge
Subaru plans to debut the all-new Impreza in its most wicked form, as a high performance World Rally Car Concept at the upcoming Frankfurt International Motor Show 2007. Subaru WRC driver, Petter Solberg, is scheduled to speak at the Subaru press conference during the introduction of this future WRC rally car.

Mr Matsatsugu Ngato, Fuji Heavy Industries� Executive Vice President of Subaru for European markets, will unveil new model Impreza five-door hatchback in its 1.5 and 2.0L naturally-aspirated formats � aimed at appealing to a wider audience while still retaining Subaru�s distinctive �boxer� engines and symmetrical all-wheel drive. Both technologies are claimed to offer outstanding handling and roadholding with �real world� active safety.

On-sale late September in the UK, the new Impreza boasts substantially increased passenger space thanks to a new platform with new multi-link, double-wishbone rear suspension which gives agile handling combined with an exceptionally absorbent ride.

Suzuki Kizashi Concept

This is another one of those Japanese-language named concept car but it's not from Mazda or Nissan this time around. In turn, it's from aspiring-to-be-upper-market manufacturer, Suzuki.

Soon to be displayed as a D-segment vehicle aka mid-sized sedan at upcoming Frankfurt International Motorshow 2007, this teaser image serve to signal Suzuki foray into the more profitable upper echelons of the automotive market. Will this Kizashi (simply meaning 'preview') concept be as radically styled in the metal?

Peugeot 308 RC Z Concept

Based on the new Peugeot 308 � which itself is slated for appearance at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show 2007 � another Pug sports concept will take centre stage in the form of Peugeot 308 RC Z Concept Car.

The 308 RC Z Concept is a 2+2 Coupe with a lightweight body and chassis made largely of aluminium and carbon fibre components. With a length of 4.276 m (similar as the hatchback), a width of 1.840 m (25mm more than the hatchback) and a height of only 1.32 metre, the streamlined design ensures both improved performance and reduced fuel consumption, as well as reduced CO2 emissions.

Its stylish frontal visage is copied directly from the 308, but has been given a sharper and sportier lower panel incorporating the single air intake, chrome front grille and integral front fog lights.

Peugeot�s trademark �feline� headlamps extend along the line of the bonnet to house four cylindrical lights, clearly visible through the clear lenses. The curved shape of the roof panel and rear window assists the airflow over the rear of the vehicle, creating sufficient rear downforce to eliminate the need for a rear spoiler, thereby preserving the clean, uncluttered lines of the compact coupe.

Reminding us much of the Porsche Cayman S, two centrally mounted rear exhaust pipes are integrated into the wraparound rear bumper lower panel. To achieve this, the rear exhaust muffler is located in a transverse position where it also serves as an aerodynamic diffuser, yet still allows sufficient space for the storage of a spare wheel in the boot floor.

Painting the 308 RC Z Concept in rich metallic grey is by a special process using finely milled metallic particles. This gives the impression that the vehicle has been formed from a single block of metal, enhancing further the cohesiveness of the overall design.

Interior fascia panel has been taken directly from the 308 hatchback. The dashboard is leather stitched, with the use of chrome, aluminium and black lacquer detailing creating a sporty, upmarket feel and touch. With this in mind, a Bell&Ross clock has been placed in the centre of the fascia panel, between the two central air vents, its dials perfectly matching that of the instruments panel. It looks like designer watches are making its way into upmarket/sporty vehicles these days with Bentley being another prime example. Time to put Seiko (preferably with analog dials) timepieces into the GS300, Lexus!

Another exclusive feature is the bucket type front seats with polished aluminium eyelets detailing, the style of which is also reflected in the design of the inner door panels. The ergonomically designed driver�s seat ensures the driver is always planted firmly in control even around those snaking bends. At the rear there are two small folding leather seats. They look rather impractical, even for small children, with their small sizes mirroring the ones found in the new Audi TT.

Powering the 308 RC Z is a 1.6 litre THP turbo-charged petrol engine developed from the EP6DTS engine, similar to the one sitting in front of the 207GTi. However, power has been boosted to 218bhp, possibly with a higher boost (larger turbine) and reworked ECU mapping. Incidentally this powerplant is also shared with the all new Mini Cooper S since the turbo direct-injection engine development costs were borne by both BMW and PSA.

Maximum torque of 280Nm is achieved at low revs (no exact details out yet), while an overboost function can hike torque to 300Nm. In the Mini Cooper S, maximum torque is 240Nm with an overboost kick to 260Nm. All these manic power and torque are transferred via a speed manual gearbox to the front wheels!

The front suspension uses many aluminium components to help reduce weight and ensure exceptional road holding, excellent steering accuracy and better road feel. The rear suspension, developed from the hatchback, consists of a torsion-beam, two rear suspension arms and an integral anti-roll bar. It has been specially modified to take account of the wider vehicle track and tyres. For the record, the front and rear tracks have been increased by 59 mm compared to the hatchback.

Braking power is enhanced by larger (360 mm) diameter ventilated discs at the front with four piston callipers. Polished alloy 19�� rims are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 245/40 R19 tyres all around.

While the exceptional road holding of the 308 RC Z forms the basis of its primary safety, it is supplemented by safety equipment borrowed from the 308 hatchback such as the Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and the directional bi-xenon headlamps. Similarly, in terms of secondary safety, the 308 RC Z uses the same impact protection structures designed to deform in a controlled manner, maximising the absorption of impact forces.

NEWBIE CARS is guessing that the 308 RC Z will make it to production � minus some of the fancy elements and trims � to mount a challenge to the Audi TT 2.0 TFSI, giving us a possibly a more affordable yet still high performance coupe at that.

Related post:

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/06/all-new-peugeot-308.html

Mitsubishi Concept-cX

Building upon 70 years of four-wheel drive expertise, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) is pushing the benefits of this technology, in terms of on-road active safety and off-road ability, from Lancer Evolution to the Pajero. At the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show 2007, MMC will unveil a new compact-'SUV' called Mitsubishi Concept-cX. Featuring the �Jet Fighter� grille already seen with Lancer Sports Sedan and using a soft-road application of the Outlander-derived electric control 4WD drivetrain, the 4.1m long Mitsubishi Concept-cX bridges the gap between Mitsubishi�s passenger cars and SUVs. Is this what car manufacturers coined as the �crossover� genre?

Sharp in design and in dynamics, the concept vehicle is based on the new Lancer�s global compact platform. In tune with the times, Mitsubishi Concept-cX will have low fuel consumption and ultra-low emission levels achieved by its next generation 1.8-litre Clean Diesel engine. The Euro 5 compliant oil burner comes standard with a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), plus a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in the exhaust system. A preview of a family of powertrains to be launched in the course of 2009, it features a variable geometry diffuser turbocharger (VGT) which generate optimum boost pressure, even at low engine revs. The 4-cylinder turbodiesel is mated to Mitsubishi's new Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission), an automated manual gearbox which will be making its world debut in the all-new Lancer Evolution X.

Related posts:

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/07/mitsubishi-evolution-xs-twin-clutch-sst.html

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/07/2007-mitsubishi-lancer-launching-soon.html

http://newbiecars.blogspot.com/2007/04/2008-all-new-mitsubishi-evolution-x.html

All-New Peugeot 308

Peugeot will unveil an all-new replacement for its 307, the 308 at the Frankfurt International Motor Show 2007 this September. The exterior styling of this latest Pug seems more evolutionary (the 307 already has a sharp-looking visage) while the interior adopts a play-safe theme. External aesthetics takes much cue from the junior sibling, the new 207, with an even sharper nose �cone�, more slanty headlights and a larger-deeper grille-cum-airdam. The rear bumper now wears - a �modern� must-have these days - a lower apron that appears to be an aerodynamic diffuser.

On the dashboard, the circular air vents give the 308 a classy retro feel, while the sat-nav LCD display folds-away when not in use, affording an uncluttered contour to the dash's clean design. Peugeot did not reveal any technical specs, but varied sources concur that the 308 will make good use of the 207's range of engines: 1.6L 120hp, 1.6L 150hp turbo and a 2.2L 170hp turbodiesel, mainly for the European market.

This all-new French hatchback will go on sale as a 2008 model in most markets worldwide.

2008 Opel Agila

Also set to be revealed in the coming September at Frankfurt International Motorshow 2007 is Opel�s newest supermini called the Agila. To be sold in Europe for the 2008 model year with two petrol engines of 1.0L and 1.2L producing 65bhp and 86bhp respectively, the Agila is a close cousin of the upcoming Suzuki Splash (think VW Touareg vs Porsche Cayenne).

Notice the near-identical aesthetics as well as dimensional resemblance to the Suzuki A-segment supermini. For the EU market mostly, a new 1.4L common-rail turbodiesel is the tempting variant, offering 75bhp on tap.