William Maley

Its coming in 2013..

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 3, 2012 Porsche is giving an unexpected choice for Cayenne buyers come September; a diesel engine. The Porsche Cayenne Diesel makes its U.S. debut at the New York Auto Show this week. Power comes from a 3.0L turbo-diesel V-6 borrowed from the Audi Q7 and Volkswagen Touareg. Power is upped from 225 HP to 240 and torque stands at 406 lb-ft. An eight speed automatic transmission sends the power to all four wheels. The Cayenne Diesel gets from 0-60 MPH in 7.2 seconds, a top speed of 135 MPH, and gets 20 City/28 Highway. Pricing for the Cayenne Diesel starts at $55,750, which puts it between the base Cayenne ($52,175) and the Cayenne S ($65,000). Press Release is on Page 2 2013 Porsche Cayenne Porsche's First Diesel for the U.S. Market Joins the Cayenne Family The Porsche Cayenne sport utility family gets a new member for 2013: the Cayenne Diesel. The newest Cayenne model joins the Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne S Hybrid and Cayenne Turbo. Originally introduced to the diesel-dominated European market in 2009, clean diesel technology and its many consumer benefits are now available to Porsche customers in the U.S. market for the first time. The Cayenne Diesel arrives in Porsche dealer showrooms in September and will be priced from $55,750, not including a $975 destination charge. Cayenne Models for 2013 Cayenne, 300-hp, 3.6 liter V6 with active all-wheel-drive Cayenne Diesel, 240-hp, 3.0 liter V6 turbo diesel engine with SCR-technology and permanent all-wheel drive system with self-locking center differential Cayenne S, 400-hp, 4.8 liter V8 with active all-wheel-drive Cayenne S Hybrid, 380-hp parallel full hybrid with 333-hp, 3.0 liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine with additional 47-hp provided by two electric motors with permanent all-wheel drive system with self-locking center differential Cayenne Turbo, 500-hp, twin-turbocharged, 4.8 liter V8 with active all-wheel-drive Model Year 2013 Changes Interior changes, including a new standard analog clock on the dashboard, new door lock buttons placed near the front door handles European Factory Delivery program offered for all models Porsche Cayenne Diesel The new-for-2013 Porsche Cayenne Diesel's powerful, yet fuel-efficient 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine, delivers 240-hp and 406 lb.-ft. of torque, available from as low as 1,750 rpm. The result is strong 0-60 mph acceleration in just 7.2 seconds and a top track speed of 135 mph. That performance is complemented by best in class fuel economy – based on preliminary internal estimates, the Cayenne Diesel is estimated to achieve a rating of 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 23 combined on its U.S. EPA label. Final figures will be confirmed closer to the start of sales later in 2012. In addition to power and economy, the Cayenne Diesel can travel up to 740 miles on a single tank of fuel. The Cayenne Diesel is built to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 emission standards, and includes selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. The SCR system is comprised of an AdBlue® tank located in the car's spare-wheel well, a heating system for this tank and the lines which carry the AdBlue, an injection valve for AdBlue fluid and a selective catalytic reduction converter, which aid in the reduction of NOx (oxides of nitrogen) emissions. Highlights of the 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine in the Cayenne Diesel include high pressure common rail fuel injection and a variable vane geometry turbocharger, which give the engine improved response to driver inputs and enhanced fuel economy when compared to more conventional diesel engine technologies. In addition, the engine block is constructed from compacted graphite iron (CGI), which has many of the strength properties of a conventional iron block but with a significant reduction in mass, approximately 55 lbs. (25 kilograms). The Cayenne Diesel is mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission, without the Auto Start/Stop function available on other Cayenne variants. As with the Cayenne S Hybrid, the Cayenne Diesel includes Porsche Traction Management (PTM), which features permanent all-wheel drive. The Cayenne Diesel also comes standard with a system to protect the driver from fueling the vehicle with the incorrect fuel. A mechanical safeguard in the fuel tank filler neck ensures that the locking mechanism can only be opened by the larger diameter diesel fuel pump nozzle and that refueling will only begin at that point. The Cayenne Diesel is designated with a "Diesel" badge on the left and right front fenders. Model Lineup Porsche Cayenne The 3.6-liter V6 in the Porsche Cayenne's engine delivers 300-hp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, and is matched to either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission and active all-wheel drive. The Cayenne sprints from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds with the manual transmission, and 7.4 seconds with the Tiptronic S. Top track speed is 143 mph. The Porsche Cayenne has a base MSRP price of $48,850, not including a $975 destination charge. Porsche Cayenne Diesel The Porsche Cayenne Diesel is powered by a modern 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. From a stop, it reaches 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, and achieves top track speed of 135 mph. The Cayenne Diesel features compacted graphite iron engine construction for lower weight, low fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, as well as improved engine acoustics and low vibrations for smooth engine running. The Cayenne Diesel produces 240-hp and a maximum torque of 406 lb.-ft. Thus, it is ideal for sporty acceleration, driving long distances, towing heavy trailer loads or everyday city driving. The Porsche Cayenne Diesel has a base MSRP price of $55,750, not including a $975 destination charge. Porsche Cayenne S The Porsche Cayenne S features a 4.8-liter V8 that produces 400-hp and 369 lb.-ft. of torque. An 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission and active all-wheel drive are standard, as are larger brakes with silver painted calipers. Zero to 60 mph happens in 5.6 seconds on its way to a top track speed of 160 mph. The Porsche Cayenne S has a base MSRP price of $65,850, not including a $975 destination charge. Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid combines a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor powered by a 288-volt nickel metal-hydride (NiMh) battery pack for sporty yet fuel-efficient performance. With 380 hp and 428 lb.-ft. of torque, delivered through an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission to a permanent all-wheel drive system, the Cayenne S Hybrid accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds on its way to a top track speed of 150 mph. The Cayenne S Hybrid can also operate in electric-only mode at speeds of up to 40 mph, and features Auto Start/Stop technology. The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid has base MSRP price of $69,850, not including a $975 destination charge. Porsche Cayenne Turbo Porsche's most potent Cayenne, the Cayenne Turbo, is powered by a twin-turbo 4.8-liter V8. With 500-hp and 516 lb.-ft. of torque, the Cayenne Turbo offers the most impressive performance in the Cayenne lineup. The Cayenne Turbo accelerates from a standing start to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds and achieves a top track speed of 173 mph. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo has a base MSRP price of $108,750, not including a $975 destination charge. Efficiency Compared to the last generation Cayenne models, the current Cayenne, Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo provide up to a 20 percent increase in fuel economy, thanks in part to their lighter weight and 8-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmissions. With the exception of the 6-speed, manual transmission Cayenne, an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission is standard across the rest of the Cayenne model line. All Cayenne models all are rated to tow 7,716 pounds. All 8-speed Tiptronic S equipped Cayenne models, except the Cayenne Diesel, feature Auto Start/Stop technology. Auto Start/Stop saves fuel and reduces emissions by turning off the engine when it is not needed, such as while sitting at a stop light. Upgrades and Changes Continuous improvement is a hallmark of Porsche Engineering, and the Cayenne interior benefits from a number of customer-friendly changes for 2013. Central Locking Button Changes to the car's interior include the addition of door locking and unlocking buttons to the door handles on the driver and passenger's side of the front of the Cayenne. As one of the most frequently used functions, central locking is now easily accessible to both driver and passenger. Separate buttons for locking and unlocking are now integrated in the door handles. Whether the doors are locked or not can be seen using the integrated feedback LED. The new operating concept allows for much more intuitive operation of the central locking system. New Analog Clock A new analog clock mounted on the top of the instrument panel at the center of the vehicle has been added as standard to all Cayenne models. Highly Sophisticated Audio Systems The CDR audio system is standard on all Cayenne models. It features a 7-inch color touchscreen display, enabling drivers to navigate and select the main menus and functions. The integrated CD radio, featuring an FM dual tuner, 30 memory presets, dynamic auto-store and speed-sensitive volume control includes a sound system with 10 loudspeakers and a total audio output of 100 watts. For the ultimate listening experience, drivers can add an optional Bose® Surround Sound system or Burmester® High-End Surround Sound System. Additional options can also be combined with CDR, such as a telephone module, 6-disc DVD changer or rearview camera. Porsche Communication Management (PCM) System Powerful, versatile and easy to use the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system is the central control system for all information and communications functions. PCM is standard for Cayenne Turbo, and optional for all other Cayenne models. Key features include a seven-inch high-resolution touchscreen display with optional rotary push-button controls on the steering wheel. The menu layout presents no more than five entries per page, enabling fast and accurate operation. A Help function is displayed at the bottom of the screen for fast guidance. Color Changes For 2013, Sand White has been replaced by a new White paint option. Sand Yellow and Amethyst Metallic are no longer available. New European Delivery Program For 2013, the Cayenne, like all other Porsche models, can now be ordered for delivery either at their birthplace in Leipzig or at the Porsche factory in Zuffenhausen. The Porsche European Delivery program is a memorable experience from the moment an owner is presented with the keys to their new Cayenne. From special photo opportunities at either the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart or the "Porsche Diamond," the main building at Leipzig, to factory tours, owners get the insider's look at how a Porsche automobile is created. European delivery at Porsche world headquarters in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen includes full access to the world-class Porsche Museum where decades of Porsche sports and race car evolution is on display. Owners that choose to take possession of their new Cayenne in Leipzig will have the opportunity to drive a number of different Porsche models on the test track or test the capabilities of a Cayenne SUV off-road at the Porsche Experience Center. View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 3, 2012 A few weeks ago, we reported that Honda would show a Crosstour concept at the New York Auto Show. Well, the time has come and here is the Crosstour Concept. At first glance, you're left wondering what has changed. Then after a second look, you notice a new grill and front bumper. Also, there is new body cladding along the side. We'll update this when we get more information on the Crosstour concept. *UPDATE* William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 4, 2012 Earlier today, Honda showed the Crosstour Concept at the New York Auto Show. Honda is re-aiming the Crosstour at "active consumers," with its "more capable-looking styling". Hence why the concept has a rugged-esque front bumper and dark trim running around the sides. Inside, the Crosstour gets updated trim, eight-inch display, keyless start, and LaneWatch blind-spot detection. Power will either come from 2.4L four-cylinder or a 3.5L V6 that goes through a six-speed automatic. The new Crosstour will go on sale sometime in the fall. Press Release is on Page 2 Honda Unveils 2013 Crosstour Concept at New York Auto Show Next Crosstour to feature more capable-looking styling, more efficient V-6 drivetrain along with host of new safety and visibility features. NEW YORK, April 4, 2012 – Honda unveiled the 2013 Crosstour Concept today at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), providing the first official glimpse of a more capable looking exterior styling direction for the luxurious mid-size CUV. Set to go on sale this fall, the Crosstour's defined lines will resonate more clearly with the active consumers that form the largest portion of the premium crossover segment. The 2013 Crosstour V-6 will feature improved fuel economy thanks to its new 6-speed automatic transmission, while both four-cylinder and V-6 versions will benefit from a host of safety and visibility upgrades. "Fueled by a combination of versatility, luxury, and efficiency, owners have demonstrated remarkable devotion to the Honda Crosstour," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "The 2013 Crosstour Concept shows how Honda will strengthen the styling and add even more content to one of the most efficient offerings in the class." Concept Design The Crosstour Concept features a more capable, SUV-like styling direction for Honda's mid-size crossover. A more aggressive and athletic front end, new contrasting moldings on the lower door garnish, and cleaner front and rear fascias anchored by the rugged look of finished sill plates provide more visual strength to the Crosstour Concept. Adding to the SUV-like stance, new rear-fender finish helps give the Concept a more solidly planted appearance. Up front, the new integrated foglamp treatment is complemented by a slotted finish beneath the headlights, which helps integrate the new, bolder grille. The revised tailgate sports a more horizontal design to add visual width to the sculpted lines at the rear of the Crosstour. The Crosstour Concept is coated in a fresh hue, similar to one of two new shades that will appear on the 2013 Crosstour. Anchoring the Crosstour Concept are unique 5-spoke 19-inch wheels, while the 2013 Honda Crosstour will feature new 18-inch alloy wheels. Though not on display in the Crosstour Concept, the luxurious interior of the Honda Crosstour will see even further refinement for 2013, including heavily revised trim materials, the addition of an 8-inch, in-dash information display, keyless ignition, and steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters on V-6 models. Advanced and Efficient Powertrains The Crosstour will offer two powertrains for the 2013 model year: a re-engineered and more powerful 3.5-liter, 24-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine, or a 2.4-liter i-VTEC inline four-cylinder engine. The 2013 Crosstour V-6 models will feature a 6-speed automatic transmission and utilize Honda Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology to achieve class-leading V-6 fuel economy1 along with an overall improvement in fuel economy compared to the outgoing model. Also available on Crosstour EX-L V-6 models is Honda's Real Time 4WDTM system, which sends power to all four wheels when front-wheel slippage is detected. The four-cylinder Crosstour models are powered by a 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC® engine producing 192 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 RPM. To maximize efficiency, a 5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control is standard equipment. Safety and Technology Innovations The 2013 Crosstour will introduce numerous new safety features, and is targeted to earn top scores in the federal government's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). The next Crosstour will be available with Honda's Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) technology. Both systems use a camera mounted behind the windshield to alert drivers if the car is moving out of its lane or to warn drivers of a potential collision in front of them. The 2013 Crosstour will provide a host of visibility enhancements, and will be one of the first models to receive the Honda-exclusive LaneWatch™ blind-spot display, which uses a camera system mounted on the passenger mirror for an enhanced view of the passenger-side roadway. Standard equipment to further enhance visibility on the 2013 Crosstour will also include re-shaped rear headrests, a rearview camera and an Expanded View Driver's Mirror. Standard Crosstour convenience features include an automatic dimming rearview mirror, auto-on/off headlights, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® and USB audio interface. Other available features on the 2013 Crosstour will include a hard-drive based navigation system, Pandora internet radio interface, XM satellite radio and an SMS text-to-speech function. Sales, Accolades and Manufacturing History First launched in 2009, and now available with both V-6 and four-cylinder engines, the Crosstour remains one of the most versatile choices in the midsize crossover segment, and earned the distinction of J.D. Power and Associates' "Highest Ranked Midsize Crossover/SUV in Initial Quality" in their 2011 Initial Quality Study SM (IQS). The Crosstour is produced2 at Honda's East Liberty Plant in East Liberty, Ohio. High resolution photography and video of the 2013 Crosstour Concept is available on the Honda Media Newsroom at www.hondanews.com. More information about the Honda Crosstour, including high resolution photos and video, is available at www.hondanews.com. 1. Preliminary EPA mileage estimates determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage estimates not available at the time of printing. 2. Honda products are produced using domestic and globally sourced parts. View full article

There is a reason for that. The forum software we use (me guessing here) can only take uploads of 2 MB (per picture). That means I have to resize them to fit. Usually, that means pictures get resized to 1024x768 with the software I use. Sure, the pictures don't always look right, but at least I can get them onto the site. I wished the upload size was larger so I could not resize them as much. But, I'm not sure if there is a solution.

I don't think we'll see a more powerful Cummins till the next generation Ram HD.. Air Suspension, possibly

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 2, 2012 And the leaks continue before the New York Auto Show begins on Wednesday. This one happens to be the 2013 BMW X1. The X1, which has been on sale since 2010 in Europe, is getting a few tweaks before it arrives at BMW showrooms later this year. Those tweaks include a revised front fascia that includes new headlights and taillights, front and rear bumpers, and side-view mirrors. Engines for the X1 include the 2.0L turbo-four (28i), boasting 240 HP and turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six (35i), producing 300 HP. Pricing for the X1 starts at $31,545 (excluding the $895 destination charge) for the X1 sDrive28i. The X1 xDrive28i starts at 33,245 and the xDrive35i will start at $39,345. Press Release is on Page 2 Woodcliff Lake, NJ – April 4th 2012, 6:00AM EDT...Having demonstrated that it is the perfect blend sports sedan-like driving dynamics and SUV utility in markets around the world, the BMW X1 is setting out to conquer the US. The talented Sport Activity Vehicle of the premium compact segment will make its US market debut armed with state-of-the-art powertrain technology, innovative features, selective design modifications and extensive interior refinements. The new 2013 BMW X1 celebrates its US premiere at the New York International Auto Show and will arrive in authorized BMW Centers in the fall of 2012 starting at an MSRP of $31,545 (including $895 Destination and Handling). The smallest BMW X model – produced at BMW Plant Leipzig – will take the leap across the pond with a renewed spring in its step, the result of a carefully judged honing of its core qualities. The design of the BMW X1 body now provides an even more intense expression of the vehicle's muscular presence, contemporary allure and versatile sporting capability. Its interior includes newly designed surfaces, more polished controls and high-quality touches exuding the exclusive premium ambience of a compact BMW X model. The BMW X1 has adopted a pioneering role among its premium class rivals in its current markets – and a repeat performance in the US is expected. Blending the versatility and robustness of a BMW X model with a high level of agility and compact exterior dimensions, the X1 has set new standards from the word go. Powerful engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and a broad spectrum of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies fitted as standard worldwide give the new BMW X1 the tools to further increase its lead over the competition in terms of sporting ability and efficiency. Design: new touches to sharpen its contemporary looks and enhance its versatility and sporting flair. Typical BMW proportions, expressive, vibrant surfaces and signature BMW X model design cues shape the appearance of the BMW X1. A sweeping hood, long wheelbase and set-back passenger compartment emphasize the vehicle's dynamic talent, while attractive light and shade effects hint at its inherent agility. The versatility and robustness of a BMW X model are reflected in elements such as the black edging at the lower edge of the body and wide wheel arches. When viewed from the front, the powerful stance of the new BMW X1 on the road and its aura of quality are now accentuated with even greater intensity. A larger number of surfaces painted in body color highlight the vehicle's enhanced elegance. The path of the vehicle's lines, which converge on the license plate mount from either side of the BMW kidney and forge outwards in the lower section of the bumper, is borrowed from BMW X models in higher vehicle segments. The newly designed headlights allow a detailed view of the advanced light technology within. And a chrome-coated accent strip now cuts across the top of the twin circular headlights. Meanwhile, an LED accent light – included as part of the optional xenon light package, complete with LED light rings for the daytime driving lights – provides the classic BMW focused look. The distinctive profile of the X1 is defined by a main character line that rises steadily to the rear of the vehicle while another line visually extends the contours of the side window surrounds as it flows towards the rear. The pronounced side skirts – that are a signature feature of BMW X models and the powerfully bulging wheel arches add sporting flair. Finally, the turn signal indicators are now integrated into the newly designed exterior mirrors. The premium feel of the new BMW X1 is also underlined at the rear by the new subdivision of fascia, bumper and undertray, with the repositioned reflectors now also bordered by surfaces painted in body color. As a result, the black elements are slimmer, while the silver-colored undertray has a more striking surface structure. Interior: precise lines, high-quality materials, sophisticated color scheme. The modifications to the design of the new BMW X1 interior create an even more vivid showcase of the sporty driving pleasure, cutting-edge versatility and premium feel this vehicle provides. The side of the center console angled towards the driver is now shallower, spotlighting the driver-focused nature of the cockpit design. High-quality electroplated trim surrounding for the gearshift lever and center console cupholders, a chrome strip for the headlight switch and chrome touches for the side edging of the Control Display – when the optional navigation system is specified – all add the finishing touches to the interior's premium feel. Plus, the air vent surrounds are given a high-gloss black surface. The BMW X1: more sporting and efficient than ever. The variants of the BMW X1 offered in the US market will be powered by BMW TwinPower Turbo gas engines. This package of technology consists of twin-scroll turbocharging, High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos variable camshaft control. In both the award-winning 6-cylinder inline engine under the hood of the BMW X1 xDrive35i – developing 300 hp – and the 240 hp 4-cylinder engine powering the BMW X1 sDrive28i and BMW X1 xDrive28i ensure instantaneous power delivery, impressive acceleration and exceptional efficiency. Both engines are paired with an automatic gearbox and extensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology. Features including the Auto Start-Stop function (28i only), Brake Energy Regeneration and demand-based operation of ancillary units all help to achieve a blend of performance and fuel economy unique in the market. The BMW X1 sDrive28i with customary BMW rear-wheel drive and the all-wheel-drive xDrive35i will be offered exclusively in the US market. The intelligent all-wheel drive of the BMW X1 xDrive35i and BMW X1 xDrive28i varies the distribution of drive between the front and rear wheels, as required. This electronically controlled power distribution ensures optimum traction and unbeatable directional stability in all weather and road conditions, as well as noticeably sportier responses through dynamically taken corners. The BMW X1 sDrive28i, the X1 xDrive28i and the X1 xDrive35i will retail for $31,545, $33,245 and $39,345 respectively (including $895 Destination and Handling). View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com April 2, 2012 Despite getting leaked earlier today, Lincoln showed the new 2013 MKZ before the start of the New York Auto Show. Based on the MKZ concept vehicle that was shown at the Detroit Auto Show in January, the production version looks largely unchanged except for the door handles and larger side mirrors. “The MKZ shape is a vision completed with just a few strokes,” said Lincoln Design director Max Wolff. Inside, the MKZ is a dream concept car come true. The interior is covered wall-to-wall in leather, real wood trim and metal accents. The instrument cluster is a 10.1-inch LCD screen. The dash has a push Button Shift gear selector and 8-inch center touchscreen. SYNC and MyLincolnTouch is standard. Optional is a unique 15.2-foot Retractable Panoramic Roof that Lincoln teased last week. The MKZ will have the choice of three powertrains; a 2.0L four-cylinder EcoBoost producing 240 HP (on premium fuel) and 270 lb-ft of torque; a 3.7L V6 generating 300 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque; and the hybrid powertrain which uses 2.0L four-cylinder and a electric motor producing 188 HP. Fuel economy for the three engines are: 2.0L EcoBoost: 22 MPG City/33 MPG Highway 3.7L V6: 18 MPG City/26 MPG Highway Hybrid: N/A Lincoln Drive Control will be standard on the MKZ. Lincoln Drive Control coordinates every system on the car to continually refine the ride and handling in real time. The system uses Continually Controlled Damping suspension system, which offers normal, comfort and sport modes and activately adjusts the dampers up to 50 times per second. Safety-wise, the MKZ could set a record for the number of sensors onboard. There's a camera in the rear-view mirror that can read lane-markers, radar sensors for the adaptive cruise control and active Collision Warning with Brake Support, and more radar sensors for parking and backing up. Inside, the MKZ is equipped with eight airbags. Available is a class-exclusive inflatable rear seatbelts. Press Release is on Page 2 The New MKZ: Lincoln's Future Begins NEW YORK, April 2, 2012 – The all-new Lincoln MKZ makes its debut at the New York International Auto Show, marking a key milestone in Lincoln's reinvention. "The new Lincoln MKZ represents the future of Lincoln in both style and substance," said Jim Farley, Group Vice President, Global Marketing, Sales and Service. "It is proof of our commitment to deliver a new breed of Lincolns for a new generation of Lincoln clients – motor cars that are distinctive, elegant, full of technology and a delight to own." The 2013 Lincoln MKZ enters the midsize luxury segment later this year. > It is the first Lincoln created by a dedicated team in its new Lincoln Design Studio > With a sweeping profile, MKZ incorporates one of the world's widest-opening retractable glass roofs > Lincoln Drive Control offered as an intelligent system that delivers a refined ride and engaging driving dynamics. Standard Lincoln Drive Control intuitively integrates multiple systems (engine, transmission, body and chassis) to deliver totally new Lincoln driving quality > Innovations include a distinct Push Button Shift gear selector creates flowing and architectural center console design > A quiet, well-appointed interior is provided by standard Active Noise Control, genuine wood trim, full LCD instrumentation, heated front seats and SYNC® with MyLincoln Touch™ > MKZ is offered with a choice of three powerful, efficient powertrains, including a next-generation hybrid expected to ensure the MKZ remains America's most fuel-efficient premium sedan > Class-exclusive inflatable rear safety belts that supplement eight standard airbags are available Camera- and Radar-Based Driving Aids The new Lincoln MKZ offers the Lane Keeping System, a suite of advanced driving aids that helps drivers avoid drifting from their lane due to distraction or fatigue. Consisting of Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert and Driver Assist, the Lane Keeping System utilizes a mono-vision camera integrated into the rearview mirror to read the lane markers ahead. Available radar-based (ultrasonic) driving aids further enhance the driving experience. Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support each use a long-range radar system that scans in front of the vehicle, automatically adjusting to traffic speed and providing a visual and audible alert when a potential front end collision is detected. Active park assist, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert use multiple short-range wide-angle radar sensors. Each function provides a distinct benefit, ranging from making parallel parking easier to warning of oncoming vehicles while backing out of a parking space. SYNC with MyLincoln Touch SYNC with MyLincoln Touch is standard in the new MKZ. The combined system makes it easier to use the entertainment, climate and available navigation features as well as devices brought into the car (e.g., phones, PDA, MP3 players). Twin five-way controls on the steering wheel manage essential systems, and many functions can be voice-activated via SYNC. Standard SYNC Services make turn-by-turn directions available via one-button push and simple voice commands. Continually improving voice recognition software learns user voices, improving the efficiency of voice commands. MKZ Dynamic Driving Technologies The new MKZ offers Lincoln Drive Control as standard. Lincoln Drive Control is an automatic system that delivers an ideal balance of a smooth ride with confident handling as it intuitively responds to driver commands and the road, making the 2013 model the most refined and engaging MKZ ever. Always on, Lincoln Drive Control orchestrates the performance of the Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) adjustable suspension, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), engine, transmission, Active Noise Control (ANC), traction control and stability control systems. The result is an unsurpassed combination of refined ride and engaging driving dynamics. CCD offers three modes (Sport/Normal/Comfort) that are accessible using MyLincoln Touch. Selecting "Sport" on the Push Button Shift gear selector enables a decidedly more sporty driving experience. CCD contributes to Lincoln Drive Control's transparent action by monitoring the car's suspension settings up to 500 times per second. The real-time system adjusts the suspension up to 50 times per second to deliver more controlled handling with a smoother ride. CCD augments a highly developed chassis that includes a refined strut front suspension and an all new integral link rear suspension. The new MKZ is the only sedan in its class to include Continuously Controlled Damping and Active Noise Control as standard equipment. MKZ Engines, Transmissions and Drive Systems The 2013 Lincoln MKZ offers three distinct powertrains. The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost delivers the performance of a traditional V6 along with expected segment-leading fuel economy that is at least 3 mpg better than the closest competitor. This engine delivers a projected 20-percent increase in highway fuel economy versus the 2012 MKZ. Emphasizing performance and efficiency, the optional 3.7-liter V6 produces significantly more power (37 horsepower and 28 lb.-ft. of torque) than the previous MKZ V6 while improving fuel economy approximately 5 percent. Maximizing fuel efficiency, the optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain is expected to enable the 2013 MKZ Hybrid to remain North America's most fuel-efficient premium sedan. The 2012 MKZ Hybrid is rated at 41 city mpg, 36 highway mpg. Non-hybrid models utilize a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel add to the performance driving experience of the MKZ. 2.0- and 3.7-liter gasoline engines are equipped with six-speed automatic transmission; 2.0-liter Hybrid is equipped with a continuously variable transmission. Horsepower, torque and fuel economy figures all are projected, not certified. Improving grip on slippery roads, the available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system anticipates and adjusts the power delivery to the front and rear axles in as little as 16 milliseconds, faster than the blink of an eye. The new MKZ is the only sedan in its class to offer inflatable second-row outboard seat belts. Rear-seat passengers – often children or mature passengers – can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries. The available inflatable second-row, outboard seat belts spread impact forces across more than five times the area of conventional belts, reducing pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion and helping reduce the risk of injuries. Retractable Panoramic Roof The Retractable Panoramic Roof is a new signature feature for Lincoln. The 15.2-square-foot glass panel offers one of the largest openings available on any current sedan. The design maintains the structural strength of a steel-roof vehicle. DESIGN Nearly identical to the MKZ Concept shown at the North American International Auto Show in January, the production 2013 Lincoln MKZ embodies a design language that is subtly distinctive. "We call it elegant simplicity," said Max Wolff, Lincoln Design director. "We wanted the new MKZ to be inviting and approachable. We moved away from traditional luxury cues and complex designs. We came up with something warm that is rich, yet still intentionally restrained." MKZ Exterior A sweeping roofline defines the new luxury sedan's profile. The steeply raked windshield and lengthened backlight make for a sleeker and more flowing appearance that is 10 percent more aerodynamic than the model it replaces. "The MKZ shape is a vision completed with just a few strokes," said Wolff. Although strikingly modern, the design retains classic Lincoln design elements including a more refined interpretation of the split-wing grille, first seen on the 1938 Lincoln-Zephyr. Rearview mirrors stand on door-mounted, sculpted pedestals. This fitment enables the front door glass to extend farther forward to improve visibility and to allow even more light into the interior. The crafted headlamp assemblies include bright, energy-efficient LED lighting. The front headlights turn in sync with the steering wheel, providing enhanced visibility. At the rear, LED technology enabled a thin, distinctive full-width taillamp graphic. MKZ Interior Design teams created an inviting interior featuring bold architectural elements, rich natural materials and fine details. "The exterior's front graphic is repeated in the dramatic sweep of the new instrument panel, helping tie the interior to the exterior in a harmonious manner. These flowing forms – along with the open center console – create a comfortable and functional interior that particularly appeals to younger, more diverse drivers we believe will now consider Lincoln," said Wolff. Innovation and technology abound inside the new MKZ. Replacing the traditional mechanical transmission shift lever is a contemporary five-button interface. The individual buttons of Push Button Shift engage Park, Neutral, Reverse, and forward gears in two modes, Drive and Sport. Push Button Shift gave designers freedom to create a sculptural multi-level center console with more functional storage areas. Positioned ahead of the driver, the full-color 10.1-inch LCD instrument cluster operates with the latest version of SYNC with MyLincoln Touch. The all-new design combines dimensional indicator rings framing a brilliant and reconfigurable Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD. An equally critical component of MyLincoln Touch is the nearly flush-mounted center 8-inch LCD touch screen that displays information clearly in easy-to-reference color-keyed quadrants. Premium-grade, supple leather covers all seating surfaces. Responsibly harvested wood and metal-toned surfaces create a luxurious and comfortable interior space. Standard luxury amenities include an 11-speaker audiophile entertainment system and cabin air filtration, plus heated front seats (with the driver's featuring 10-way power controls), remote start capabilities and Active Noise Control. To make the MKZ exceptionally quiet, ANC electronically targets frequencies and reduces their intensity. To improve the refinement of the driving experience, other frequencies are subtly enhanced. The available THX® II Certified Car Audio System is a Lincoln-exclusive that features 700-watts, 14-channels and 14-speakers. THX audio engineers spent more than 200 hours custom tuning the THX-certified equipment to the new MKZ's interior. The result delivers home-theater surround sound to the road. View full article