William Maley

Previous Page Next Page From the "we're not that surprised" department; Audi has revealed the cabriolet variants of the new A5 and S5. Like the coupe, the A5/S5 cabriolet uses a new chassis that not only drops 88 pounds, but is 40 percent stiffer compared to the last-generation model. Overall length has increased by two inches allowing for more passenger space. The new cabriolets retain a soft-top, which can be raised and lowered in under 20 seconds. The European market will get the choice of five engines (two gas and three TDIs) and three transmissions (six-speed manual, seven-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch, and eight-speed automatic). The U.S. will likely get the 2.0L TFSI four-cylinder found in the new A4 with 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic will come paired with the TFSI. We don't know if the A5 convertible will get front-wheel drive like the previous-generation model, but we expect quattro all-wheel drive to be offered. The S5 will come with a 3.0L turbocharged V6 with 354 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This will come paired with an eight-speed automatic and quattro all-wheel drive. We'll have more details later this month when Audi unveils the A5 and S5 cabriolet at the LA Auto Show. Source: Audi Press Release is on Page 2 The new Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolet – open to intense driving pleasure Sporty, elegant design, larger interior, more comfort and convenience Seat belt microphones and fully automatic acoustic hood as standard Audi S5 Cabriolet with 354 hp V6 turbocharged engine and quattro drive The premiere of the new Audi A5 Cabriolet* completes the new generation of the A5 family. Up to four people can enjoy intense driving pleasure on board the open-top mid-sized model. The fully automatic acoustic hood opens and closes up to a speed of 50 km/h (31.1 mph). In the Audi S5 Cabriolet* a new six-cylinder turbocharged engine developing 354 hp and 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft) of torque ensures top performance. Striking shoulder line, classic soft top: the exterior The designers went with the sleek lines of the Coupé for the styling of the new Audi A5 Cabriolet. The rear window is now flatter and emphasizes the sporty looks, as do the short overhangs and the long wraparound hood with power dome. With a length of 4,673 millimeters (15.3 ft), the new A5 Cabriolet is 47 millimeters (1.9 in) longer than the predecessor model. The classic soft top fits perfectly and delivers outstanding aeroacoustics thanks to effective insulation. The new one-touch opening function makes operating the standard acoustic hood much easier: Just a quick pull of the switch is all it takes to open the soft top fully automatically in 15 seconds or close it in 18 seconds – even while driving up to 50 km/h (31.1 mph). The front is dominated by a three-dimensional Singleframe grille which is much flatter and wider than before. The wave-shaped shoulder line – a hallmark styling feature of the entire A5 family – makes the A5 Cabriolet extremely elegant. The pronounced bulges over the wheel arches accentuate the quattro DNA. Horizontal lines at the rear emphasize the width of the new Audi A5 Cabriolet, which at the same time is slightly narrower than the predecessor. The third brake light is elegantly integrated into the surrounding trim strip of the hood compartment cover. LED rear lights and optional LED or Matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn signals at the front and rear make high-end technology visible even after dark. Strong package: the chassis The wide track and the long wheelbase measuring 2,765 millimeters (108.9 in) are key features of the balanced, sporty suspension tuning. The track width is 1,587 millimeters (62.5 in) at the front and 1,568 millimeters (61.7 in) at the rear. An updated five-link suspension is used on the front axle. At the rear, a five-link construction replaces the trapezoidal-link suspension used on the previous model. Adaptive dampers are available as an option. They are incorporated into the standard Audi drive select dynamic handling system and allow the driver to choose between a highly dynamic or comfortable driving experience. The newly developed electromechanical power steering offers good feedback from the road and greater steering precision. Optionally available is dynamic steering, which varies its gear ratio depending on the speed and steering angle. Lighter and torsionally stiffer: the body The body of the new Audi A5 Cabriolet is the stiffest in its class and yet is among the lightest in the segment. Thanks to a smart mix of materials and geometric lightweight design, the engineers have increased the good torsional stiffness of the predecessor model by another 40 percent. All of which makes the Cabriolet’s handling even more agile. The total weight of the new generation is reduced by up to 40 kilograms (88.2 lb). The front-wheel-drive A5 Cabriolet with the 190 hp 2.0 TDI weighs 1,690 kilograms (3725.8 lb). Additional struts in the body compared with the Coupé and reinforced sills make up for the absence of a fixed roof. In the event of a crash and rollover, head-thorax side airbags and automatically extending aluminum profiles ensure the occupants’ safety. Wide lineup: engines and drivetrain There is initially a choice of three engines for the new Audi A5 Cabriolet in Germany – a 2.0 TFSI with 185 kW (252 hp), a 2.0 TDI with 140 kW (190 hp) and a 3.0 TDI with 160 kW (218 hp). Following the market introduction, a 2.0 TFSI with 140 kW (190 hp) and a 3.0 TDI with 210 kW (286 hp) will join the lineup. Compared with the previous model, the engines offer up to 17 percent more power while consuming as much as 22 percent less fuel. All the engines combine high efficiency with sporty power development and smooth running – especially the two 3.0 TDI six-cylinder engines. Six-speed manual transmission, seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission or eight-speed tiptronic – tailor-made drivetrain technology is available for every engine version. The drive is provided as standard via the front wheels; quattro drive with ultra technology and permanent all-wheel drive are available as options. The latter comes as standard for the 3.0 TDI with 210 kW (286 hp). The Audi S5 Cabriolet is moving into a whole new league with its newly developed 3.0 TFSI. From its 2,995 cc of displacement, the boosted six-cylinder engine produces 260 kW (354 hp) of power – 15 kW (21 hp) more than the engine in the previous model. The top model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 5.1 seconds, and on up to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph). It features quattro permanent all-wheel drive and the eight-speed tiptronic as standard. Spacious and functional: the interior The increased dimensions, the wheelbase extended by 14 millimeters (0.6 in) and more compact seats increase the space for the driver and passengers. The shoulder room in the front row of seats has been increased by 26 millimeters (1.0 in) and the kneeroom in the rear by 18 millimeters (0.7 in). The horizontal architecture of the instrument panel and the continuous air vent strip create a generous sense of space. High-grade materials, different colors and excellent workmanship ensure a very special feel-good atmosphere and underscore the premium character. As an option the ambient lighting with 30 adjustable colors creates a fitting mood for the interior. With the hood closed the luggage compartment has a capacity of 380 liters (13.4 cu ft). The soft top compartment in the luggage compartment automatically moves down when opening the soft top and up again when the soft top is closed, thus providing the largest possible luggage space at all times. The rear seat has a 50:50 split and can be easily folded forward using levers in the luggage compartment. As standard the tailgate on the A5 Cabriolet now opens automatically – using the remote control key or the button in the driver’s door. Audi also installs gesture control for the tailgate as an option: A proximity sensor in the bumper responds to a kicking movement with the foot – the tailgate opens automatically once the optional convenience key is detected. Seat belt microphones as standard: operation made easy Thanks to the all-new operating and display concept including natural language voice control and free-text search, the driver can control all functions effortlessly and intuitively. Standard seat belt microphones for driver and front passenger improve voice quality even with the hood open. As an alternative to the analog instrument dials, there is the Audi virtual cockpit with various display options. The large, high-resolution TFT monitor measuring 12.3 inches presents richly detailed graphics. The optional head-up display projects all relevant information onto the windshield in the driver’s direct field of vision as easily comprehensible symbols and digits, thus enabling the driver to keep their eyes on the road. Top-class connectivity: infotainment and Audi connect MMI navigation plus with MMI touch tops the infotainment range. Its 8.3-inch monitor has a resolution of 1,024 x 480 pixels. In addition to a DVD drive and a 10 GB flash memory, the high-end system also features two card readers, an AUX-IN connection and a USB connection with charging function. An LTE module provides access to Audi connect online services – free of charge for three years. The first five map updates for the navigation system are also free of charge. The media hub also comes with a Wi-Fi hotspot which connects passengers’ mobile devices to the World Wide Web. The Audi smartphone interface integrates iOS and Android cellphones in an environment specially developed for them in the MMI. The Audi phone box connects smartphones to the on-board antenna to provide superior reception quality. It also charges the smartphone inductively, without any wires, using the Qi standard. The Bang & Olufsen Sound System features innovative 3D sound and further improved bass thanks to a second woofer. It opens up the spatial dimension of height and gives the driver the sense of sitting in a concert hall. Its amplifier supplies 755 watts of power in total to 19 loudspeakers. Abundant support: the driver assistance systems With up to 30 driver assistance systems, the new Audi A5 Cabriolet offers a broad range of support. An intelligent combination of different technologies enhances safety, comfort and efficiency. Meanwhile Audi is also taking the next step toward piloted driving. Playing a central role here is the adaptive cruise control (ACC) Stop&Go system including traffic jam assist. It relieves drivers in slow-moving traffic up to speeds of 65 km/h (40.4 mph) by assuming the tasks of braking and accelerating the car, and it also temporarily takes charge of steering on better roads. The predictive efficiency assistant evaluates GPS information from the car’s immediate surroundings and helps to save fuel by giving specific driving advice – a unique feature in this segment. Collision avoidance assist intervenes if the car needs to drive around an obstacle to avoid an accident. Based on data from the front camera, ACC and radar sensors, it computes a recommended driving line within a fraction of a second. The lineup is rounded out by other assistance systems such as turn assist, park assist, rear cross traffic assist, exit warning, camera-based recognition of traffic signs, Audi active lane assist and Audi side assist. Pampering program: the equipment The Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolet come with an especially wide range of equipment. Standard features include xenon headlights, the Audi drive select dynamic handling system and partial leather seats. Intuitive, ergonomic operation comes courtesy of the Audi MMI radio plus with 7-inch color display, seat belt microphones and the one-touch opening function for the soft top. The new lines concept with various equipment packages enhances the scope for individual design expression. The new Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolet will be in dealerships in Germany and other European countries in March 2017. The A5 Cabriolet starts at EUR 49,350. The price for the S5 Cabriolet is EUR 67,800. Previous Page Next Page View full article

Volkswagen has cleared one hurdle in the form of the 2.0L TDI talks. Now it is working trying to clear the hurdle that is the 3.0L TDI V6. Yesterday in U.S. Federal Court in San Fransisco, Judge Charles Breyer got on update on the talks over the 3.0L TDI V6. Breyer said at the hearing that "substantial progress" is being made between Volkswagen and the U.S. Government. People briefed on the talks tell Reuters that Volkswagen might agree on buying back at least 21,000 older Audi Q7 and Volkswagen Touraeg models and repair the remaining vehicles, but only if regulators agree on the proposed fix. A number of other issues are still undecided such as how much Volkswagen is willing to compensate owners of vehicles equipped with the 3.0L TDI V6. Breyer set a deadline for December 1st for an update on the talks. Source: Reuters View full article

As Fiat Chrysler Automobiles continues its cooperation with the federal investigation into its falsified sales, they have begun to issue restate monthly sales results. They reveal that the Chrysler 200, a midsize sedan the company was hoping to be a success was even less popular than we first though. Automotive News reports that in a three-month period from July to September 2015, FCA reported that it sold 21 percent more 200s (8,577) than the new numbers. To put this in perspective, the second-largest discrepancy in sales was the Dodge Charger with 2,258 over-reported sales. "There was a lot of pressure on the 200 to offset the loss of sales from discontinuing the Dodge Avenger," said Dave Sullivan, an analyst with AutoPacific. "FCA was under pressure to deliver a midsize car that could compete with the Accord and Camry after they emerged from bankruptcy. They were vilified for not offering competitive cars after we saw gas spike to $4. The 200 was meant to show how FCA was committed to offering passenger cars that could compete." There was also a $1 billion investment FCA made into the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant to build the 200. There was a lot of pressure for this sedan to succeed and could explain some of the reason as to the inflated sale numbers. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers & Gears View full article

The 'One Ford' policy, introduced by former CEO Alan Mulally is partly credited for helping pull the company out of its financial quagmire and making it much leaner. The policy is simple, one model is developed for different markets with minor changes being made. But this policy “has peaked” and changes are in store. Ford's global design chief Moray Callum tells Autocar that Ford isn't abandoning this policy, but new models will be “more tailored to each region”. Take for example the next Focus which is expected to debut within the next two years. Callum said the model would diverge from this policy slightly. "It’s an entry-level model in the US, but not in Europe. They will be visually similar but there will be less content for the US model,” said Callum. Autocar speculates that next Focus for the U.S. could also get a less sophisticated suspension because driving dynamics isn't a major concern for U.S. buyers at this price point (although this writer disagrees). Source: Autocar View full article

Previous Page Next Page Volvo is stretching the S90 lineup - literally. The Swedish automaker announced today two long-wheelbase S90 models for the Chinese market. Both models ride on a wheelbase that is 4.7-inches longer than standard S90 - 120.5 vs. 115.8 inches. The first model is simply a stretched version of the S90 called the S90 Long Wheelbase. The second model is the S90 Excellence which stands as the most luxurious vehicle Volvo has offered. The most noticeable feature is Volvo's Lounge Console. First shown in a concept last year, the console takes the place of the front passenger seat and provides a number of features to the person sitting behind it. The console features a large storage compartment, built-in entertainment system with a large display, and adjustable footrest. Other luxuries include power adjustments for the seats, heated and cooled cupholders, a built-in refrigerator, and crystal glasses. The S90 Excellence is powered by Volvo's T8 Twin Engine Plug-In, while the S90 Long Wheelbase offers T4 and T5 powertrains along with the T8. Volvo also announced that it would be moving production of the S90 from Torslanda, Sweden to Daqing, China where it will be exported around the world. “China will play an increasingly important part in our global manufacturing ambitions. Our factories here will deliver world-class products for export across the globe in coming years, contributing to our objective of selling up to 800,000 cars a year by 2020,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Car Group in a statement. The S90 isn't the only model that will be built China. The current and next-generation 60 Series will be built in Chengdu and the upcoming 40 Series models will be made at a new plant in Luqiao. Volvo declined to comment whether these vehicles will be exported. The S90 LWB and Excellence will debut at the Guangzhou auto show this month. Production of the S90 LWB will kick off later this year and will be coming to the U.S. The Excellence will go into production next year. Source: Volvo, Automotive News (Subscription Required) Press Release is on Page 2 Volvo Cars unveils new version of the S90 sedan and top-of-the-line S90 Excellence in Shanghai, marking a new era for car-making in China Volvo Cars, the premium carmaker, has unveiled a new upgraded China version of its S90 sedan and a top-of-the-line luxury model called S90 Excellence, both aimed at the high-end sedan market, in advance of their first public appearance at the 2016 Guangzhou Motor Show. The new S90 will be the most premium car ever made in China. Both versions will be built in Volvo Cars’ production facility in Daqing, China, and exported globally, highlighting the high levels of quality that underpin Volvo’s global manufacturing strategy. “China will play an increasingly important part in our global manufacturing ambitions. Our factories here will deliver world-class products for export across the globe in coming years, contributing to our objective of selling up to 800,000 cars a year by 2020,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO, Volvo Car Group. Volvo has paved the way in developing China’s exports of cars to global markets. It was the first Western car maker to export a premium China-made car to the US in 2015 with the S60 Inscription, which received a full 5-Star rating in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration testing. Premium credentials Both the S90 cars underscore Volvo’s credentials as a premium car maker. “The first thing you notice in the S90 Excellence is that we have removed the front passenger seat and replaced it with what we call the Lounge Console, designed to meet the chauffeur-driven executive customers’ need to relax or work while on the move. The second thing you will notice is the high quality materials that combine to deliver a well-thought-through and immersive luxury feel,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo Car Group. The S90 Excellence incorporates many features designed to enhance the in-car experience – a full panoramic roof, foldout worktables, clever storage, a heated and cooled cup holder, an adjustable footrest and a built-in entertainment system featuring a large display for work or entertainment purposes. The S90 Excellence also includes a rear-seat touchscreen control interface, a built-in refrigeration compartment and handmade crystal glasses from Swedish glassmaker Orrefors. The S90 will be available with Volvo Cars’ award-winning T4 and T5 petrol engines and the top-of-the-line T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, delivering an uncompromising mix of performance and pure electric power that makes the most of Volvo’s ‘Relaxed Confidence’ chassis settings. The S90 Excellence will only come with the T8 Twin Engine powertrain option. The new cars will come with a host of standard safety features including Large Animal Detection as a part of the City Safety system, Pilot Assist, which is a hands-on-the-wheel semi-autonomous driver assistance system that works up to 130 km/h. Volvo’s new 90 Series cars also come with the convenience of smartphone integration, incorporating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allowing convenient access to familiar smartphone features via the large centre display in the car. Both cars will be available with a new CleanZone air quality system that employs an ionic air cleaner, a PM 2.5 real-time monitor in the four-zone air conditioning system. The new S90 goes into production in November. The S90 Excellence follows next year. Previous Page Next Page View full article