William Maley

The A3 is on the new MQB modular platform like the Golf

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 27, 2013 Nissan is taking the next big on the evolution of the fourth-generation Pathfinder with the introduction of the new 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid at the New York Auto Show today. The Pathfinder Hybrid is the first model to debut Nissan’s new hybrid system. The hybrid system is made up of a 2.5L supercharged four-cylinder gas engine and a electric motor paired with a compact Lithium-ion battery. Total output stands at 250 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. That power is routed through Nissan’s Xtronic CVT to either the front wheels or all four wheels. The system also features Nissan’s Intelligent Dual Clutch System. Positioned between the engine and CVT, the system manages power from both the electric motor and the gas engine to have them running at most efficent. The system also acts a generator, collecting energy from the CVT. Fuel economy numbers are estimated to be 25 City/27 Highway/26 Combined. With a 19.5 gallon gas tank, Nissan says the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid can travel up 526 miles on one tank. The Hybrid can also tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid arrives this summer. Source: Nissan William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 2014 NISSAN PATHFINDER HYBRID OFFERS 26 MPG COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY AND 526-MILE DRIVING RANGE – WITH NO COMPROMISE OF PERFORMANCE OR INTERIOR ROOMINESS – Most Fuel-Efficient Pathfinder Ever Features New Affordable Hybrid System; Available in Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive or Front-Wheel Drive and Choice of Trim Levels – With the introduction of an all-new fourth-generation Pathfinder for the 2013 model year, Nissan’s legendary adventure-ready Next Gen SUV took a major step forward in refinement, enhanced fuel economy, cutting-edge technology and family utility – including its industry first EZ Flex™ Seating System with innovative LATCH AND GLIDE™ technology. Now, for the 2014 model year, the evolution of the Pathfinder continues with the introduction of a new affordable hybrid powertrain system designed to enhance fuel economy and reduce CO2 emissions with no reduction of driving performance, passenger roominess or cargo capacity. The Pathfinder’s new Hybrid powertrain option will be available in three fully equipped trim levels – SV, SL and Platinum – when it joins the lineup in late summer 2013. It is expected to be priced at around just $3,000 more than Pathfinder 3.5-liter V6 models. Said Nissan North America, Inc. Vice President, Product Planning Pierre Loing: “The Pathfinder Hybrid is highly affordable because it matches motor and battery size well, while minimizing the number of additional parts or modifications needed to the platform and body. It is designed as a logical bridge between conventional internal combustion engine powertrains and the wider acceptance of hybrid systems by providing enhanced efficiency with no compromises versus the standard vehicle.” Adventure Goes Green Known as the perfect family adventure vehicle, the Pathfinder Hybrid blends “green” technology with comfortable seating for seven and 3,500-pound towing capacity (when properly equipped). For the Hybrid version, Pathfinder’s standard 3.5-liter V6 is replaced by a new supercharged 2.5-liter gasoline engine and an electric motor paired with a compact Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery. The 15 kW electric motor and gas engine work in tandem to provide performance similar to the conventional Pathfinder. The system is rated at 250 net horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque – versus the 3.5-liter V6’s 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system also uses a Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch System (one motor / two clutch parallel system) that efficiently manages power from both the electric motor and the gas engine. Positioned between the gasoline engine and the next-gen Xtronic CVT® (where the torque converter would normally be), the motor also functions as a generator, conveying deceleration force from the CVT to the battery. One clutch is installed between the gasoline engine and the electric motor, the other within the CVT. Fuel economy is estimated* at 26 mpg Combined, an increase of 24 percent over the standard Pathfinder. Estimated City fuel economy is 25 mpg, while Highway mileage is estimated at 27 mpg. With the Pathfinder Hybrid’s large 19.5-gallon fuel tank, the same as non-hybrid models, driving range is estimated at more than 526 miles**. Another key to the system’s non-compromising design efficiency is the use of a space-saving Li-ion battery fitted under the 3rd row seat, preserving Pathfinder’s unique 2nd row sliding functionality and easy access to the 3rd row. A regenerative braking system automatically recharges the battery by converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy that would be otherwise lost in braking. Said Loing: “With this innovative design, there is no reduction of passenger seating capacity, 2nd or 3rd row legroom or cargo space. And, with the flat rather than raised floor, entry and exit to and from every row is as easy and convenient as the non-hybrid Pathfinder models.” Visually the Pathfinder Hybrid is marked by efficient LED taillights and Nissan PUREDRIVE® Hybrid badges. In addition, special hybrid information screens are added to the instrument panel’s Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display. Next Generation Style, Spaciousness and Comfort Beyond its hybrid powertrain and distinctive LED taillights, the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid is pure fourth-generation Pathfinder. That means that along with reduced weight of its unibody construction (versus the previous generation’s body-on-frame design), it offers an attractive, aerodynamic exterior without compromising headroom or cargo capacity. The look is adventure-ready with wheel-oriented muscular fenders and a strong, stable stance. The upper body features an open cabin with a low beltline and thin A- and D-pillars, which flow smoothly into the rugged, durable-looking lower body. The coefficient of drag is 0.34. Other exterior details include a wide chrome grille and large aerodynamic headlights, recessed front windshield wipers, chrome door handles and the large rear LED combination lights. An available Dual Panorama Moonroof, with sliding opening front panel and fixed rear glass panel which extends over the 2nd and 3rd rows, combines with the large windows to create an open, airy interior environment. Pathfinder’s quiet, comfortable interior includes a wide range of available features, including three rows of rich leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated and cooled front seats, heated 2nd row seats, heated steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Start, multiple user memory settings and an advanced Bose® Audio System with 13 speakers. SiriusXM Satellite Radio is standard (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately). An unmatched level of versatility comes to life in the design of the 2nd and 3rd rows with exceptional 3rd row access – thanks to large rear door openings and the EZ Flex™ Seating System with 5.5 inches of 2nd row seat travel for ease of entry and exit to the 3rd row. The 60/40-split 2nd row features innovative LATCH AND GLIDE™ technology that allows forward movement and access to the 3rd row with a child safety seat remaining securely in place (on the passenger curb side). With the extensive 2nd row seat travel, it’s easy to adjust legroom or accommodate cargo spontaneously as needed. The 3rd row seat is a 50/50 split-folding design, offering added cargo flexibility, and it also reclines for greater passenger comfort – a feature not offered with other SUVs in class. Both the 2nd and 3rd row seats fold flat for optimal cargo capacity. Thoughtful, Advanced Technology Thoughtful technology is also found throughout the Pathfinder Hybrid interior, starting with the instrument panel, which includes the Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display in the center of the instrument cluster right in front of the driver. With hybrid-equipped models, the customizable, easy-to-read 4.2-inch color monitor can show power flow readings from the electric motor and gas engine, along with power regeneration back into the battery. The instrument panel also includes a large multifunction center IT display, available Nissan Navigation System with NavTraffic real-time traffic and NavWeather weather information (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), Zagat Survey® restaurant guide, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and RearView Monitor. Pathfinder also features available advanced, class-exclusive*** Around View® Monitor, which provides the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the vehicle. Other technology includes Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, power rear liftgate, iPod® integration and tri-zone entertainment system with 2nd row head restraint-mounted DVD display screens. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with individual tire pressure display and class-exclusive Easy Fill Tire Alert that provides both visual and audible signals to help owners conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge is standard. The available remote engine start function allows the climate control system to warm up or cool down the interior prior to driving. Responsive Handling, Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive Like all Pathfinders, Hybrid versions offer a quiet, comfortable ride and handling provided by an independent strut front/multi-link rear suspension and with hydraulic electric power-assisted steering standard. Available wheel and tire combinations include 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 all-season tires. With the available intuitive four-wheel drive, Pathfinder continues to serve as an excellent vehicle for inclement weather driving conditions. Pathfinder is the only vehicle in class**** with selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes for its available intuitive ALL-MODE 4x4-i system. The system lets the driver choose full-time 2WD for maximum fuel economy, Auto mode to automatically monitor conditions and adjust the balance of power between front and rear wheels for best traction, or 4WD Lock mode when the confidence of full-time 4WD is desired. In addition, standard Hill Start Assist helps add control when starting and driving away on a steep incline (both 4WD and 2WD models). Hybrid-equipped Pathfinders also retain the ability to tow boats, jet skis, trailers and a variety of other recreational gear with standard towing capacity of 3,500 pounds (when properly equipped). “The Pathfinder Hybrid takes all the style, features, utility and amenities of the popular new Pathfinder and adds fuel efficiency and driving range, without losing one bit of its real-world, everyday lifestyle-enhancing fun and flexibility,” concluded Loing. “As the most fuel-efficient Pathfinder ever, we believe it’s going to be a great addition to the lineup for 2014.” View full article

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 27, 2013 Today at the New York Auto Show, Chevrolet introduced the new 2014 Camaro which features a narrower front end and revised rear end styling. These design changes add up to better aerodynamics and cooling. You still have the 3.6L V6 as the base engine, followed by the 6.2L V8 and the LSA supercharged V8. However, the star of the 2014 Camaro lineup is the new 2014 Camaro Z/28 which is the most track capable Camaro ever built. "We set out to make the fastest road-racing Camaro possible that was still street-legal. While the Camaro ZL1 offers exceptional performance on the street, the drag strip, and the track, the Z/28 is entirely focused on the track performance. The Z/28 will be too track-focused for most drivers, but offers road-racers one of the most capable track cars ever offered from an automaker,” said Camaro chief enginner, Al Oppenheiser. The heart of the Z/28 is the 7.0L LS7 V8 engine. Chevrolet isn't revealing the official figures, only saying only that the Z/28 will deliver "at least 500 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque". A six-speed manual is the sole transmission. Other mechanical changes include a limited-slip differential, spool-valve dampers, stiffer springs, and Brembo carbon ceramic discs. The Camaro Z/28 has also gone through a comprehensive diet, losing 300 pounds when compared to the ZL1. The diet included thinner rear glass, lighter wheels, smaller battery, removing the tire-inflator kit and sound-deadening material, and making air conditioning an option. Outside, the Z/28 has a massive front splitter tied to a lift-curbing undertray to help with aero. Out back, a unique spoiler and diffuser help keep the Z/28 on the ground while at high speed. Inside, the Z/28 comes with a matte-metallic finish trim named Octane, flat-bottomed steering wheel, and standard Recaro seats with microfiber suede inserts. One surprise in the Z/28 was the inclusion of a back seat. Chevrolet has modified it by eliminating the pass-through and using high-density foam. The new 2014 Camaro arrives at dealers later this summer. The Z/28 comes out sometime in 2014. Source: Chevrolet William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 2014 Camaro Z/28 the Most Track-capable Camaro Ever 2013-03-27 NEW YORK – Chevrolet today introduced the restyled 2014 Camaro line at the New York Auto Show, including the return of the Z/28, the most iconic model in Camaro history. The 2014 Camaro models feature a revised exterior design that integrates high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. The new Camaro Z/28 also features a full aerodynamics package that creates downforce at speed, which helps make it the most track-capable offering in Camaro's history. "As the ultimate track-capable Camaro, this car restores the mission of the original Z/28, and serves as a testament to the expertise of Chevrolet as the best-selling brand of performance cars," said Mark Reuss, president, GM North America. "The build sheet is the wish list of any racer: lightweight, high-revving, dry-sump LS7 engine; carbon-ceramic brakes; integrated coolers for track use; true aerodynamic downforce, and a significant reduction in curb weight. This car could only come from Chevrolet, and could only be called the Z/28." The first Camaro Z/28 was introduced in 1967, created to compete in the Sports Car Club of America's Trans-Am 2 class. It featured a smaller, lighter, 302-cubic-inch V-8 for improved weight balance, as well as quick-ratio steering and a heavy-duty suspension for track use. In keeping with its road-racing focus, the 1967 Camaro Z/28 was not available with an automatic transmission or air conditioning. While the new Camaro Z/28 is not intended to compete in a specific race series, it is solely focused on track capability. In initial testing, the Camaro Z/28 is three seconds faster per lap than the Camaro ZL1. That extra speed comes from three areas: - Increased grip: The Z/28 is capable of 1.05 g in cornering acceleration, due to comprehensive chassis revisions - Increased stopping power: the Z/28 features Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes capable of 1.5 g in deceleration, and consistent brake feel, lap after lap - Reduced curb weight: The naturally aspirated Z/28 weighs 300 pounds less than the supercharged Camaro ZL1, with changes ranging from lightweight wheels to thinner rear-window glass - Like the original, the 2014 Camaro Z/28 is offered only with a manual transmission. In a nod to modern convenience, air-conditioning is available, but only as an option. "We set out to make the fastest road-racing Camaro possible that was still street-legal," said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. "While the Camaro ZL1 offers exceptional performance on the street, the drag strip, and the track, the Z/28 is entirely focused on the track performance. The Z/28 will be too track-focused for most drivers, but offers road-racers one of the most capable track cars ever offered from an automaker." The new 2014 Camaro line will arrive at Chevrolet dealers later in 2013. The Camaro Z/28 is expected to be appearing at track events across the United States in spring 2014. High-performance aerodynamics highlight changes for 2014 Camaro The 2014 Camaro represents the most significant redesign since the introduction of the fifth-generation Camaro as a concept car in 2006. "The 2014 Camaro is our opportunity to apply what we have learned listening to our customers, and our continuing development of high-performance models," said Tom Peters, Camaro exterior design director. "We look for solutions that are both functional and beautiful so that the result is genuine Chevrolet – simple, powerful, honest, and more than expected." Compared to the previous model, the design represents a strong visual change front and rear, resulting in a wider, lower, more contemporary appearance. The front fascia features a wider lower opening, and a narrower upper opening that also updates the appearance of the iconic "halo ring" HID headlamps on the Camaro RS package. The functional hood vent on the Camaro SS helps reduce heat and aerodynamic lift. Moving to the rear, the sculptural decklid, horizontal lamps and diffuser complete the powerful statement. The Camaro Z/28 also features a full aerodynamic package designed to produce downforce at track speeds. At the front, the Z/28 features a large splitter, connected to an underbody panel that further reduces lift. In profile, the Z/28 features fender flares over the front and rear wheels, as well as extended rocker panels that contribute to aerodynamic stability. An aggressive rear spoiler and functional diffuser complete the aerodynamic package. On the interior, the Camaro Z/28 features trim in a distinctive, matte-metallic finish named Octane, the ZL1 flat-bottomed steering wheel, and standard Recaro seats with microfiber suede inserts. The new seats (also available on the coupe versions of the SS and ZL1 models), feature aggressive bolsters for high-performance driving, as well as seat cutouts inspired by the five-point harnesses found on racing seats. To save weight, both front seats incorporate manual adjustment. The rear seats of the Z/28 have also been modified for weight reduction. A total of nine pounds (four kilograms) was saved by eliminating the seat-back pass through, as well as using high-density foam in place of the rigid structure of the seat back and steel mesh of the seat bottom. "Unlike the Ford Mustang Boss 302, we felt it was important to keep the 2+2 configuration of the Camaro Z/28 as Chevrolet already has a world-class two-seat sports car in the Corvette," said Oppenheiser. "By modifying the construction of the rear seat, we were able to reduce the overall weight of the Z/28 while still preserving the flexibility of 2+2 seating." 7.0L, LS7 the heart of the Camaro Z/28's track-capable performance Like the original, the new Camaro Z/28 forgoes ultimate horsepower and torque for improved weight balance and track performance. In 1967, the most-powerful engine available in a factory Camaro was a 396 cid V-8 with 375 horsepower. To prepare the Camaro Z/28 for road racing, engineers specified a lighter, 302 cid V-8, officially rated at 290 horsepower. While the 302 was not the choice for drag racers, it proved ideal for sports-car racing. Today, the most-powerful engine offered is the Camaro ZL1's supercharged 6.2L LSA, which delivers 580 horsepower. The heart of the 2014 Camaro Z/28 is the lighter, naturally aspirated 7.0L LS7 first introduced in the Corvette Z06. "The LS7 is ideal for road racing because it delivers amazing performance in a compact, lightweight package," said Jordan Lee, Small Block chief engineer and program manager. "The broad torque curve and high redline of the LS7 mean fewer shifts are required for each lap, while the lightweight design improves the front-to-rear weight balance for better handling." Co-developed with Corvette Racing, the hand-assembled 7.0L (427 cid) V-8 uses a number of high-performance components, including: - Titanium intake valves and connecting rods, and sodium-filled exhaust valves - CNC-ported aluminum cylinder heads - Forged-steel crankshaft and main bearing caps - High-lift camshaft - Hydroformed exhaust headers - 11.0:1 compression ratio, and a 7,000 rpm redline. - 10.5-quart, dry-sump oiling system For the Camaro Z/28, the LS7 features unique induction and exhaust systems, and delivers at least 500 horsepower (373 kW) and 470 lb-ft of torque (637 Nm). The racing-style, cold-air induction system and large K&N air filter provide maximum air flow. The standard dual mode exhaust system and larger-diameter pipes enable improved air flow. By bypassing the mufflers during acceleration, the system increases both the torque and sound generated by the LS7 engine. The Camaro Z/28 is exclusively offered with a Tremec TR6060 manual transmission. The six-speed features close-ratio gearing and 3.91:1 final drive ratio, both optimized for the power characteristics of the LS7. Power is distributed to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential featuring a helical gear set, rather than traditional clutch packs. The new design enables the driver to apply more power and get through corners faster, by continuously adjusting the torque bias to maximize available traction. The differential works in unison with Chevrolet's proprietary Performance Traction Management system, which allows drivers to adjust the level of throttle and brake intervention to match their capability and driving environment. Unlike some competitors' "track package" offerings, the Camaro Z/28 makes standard all the cooling systems required for track use. This includes the dry-sump oiling system for the LS7, which is connected to an integral liquid-to-liquid cooling system for engine oil. A second liquid-to-liquid system provides cooling for the transmission and differential. This system pumps overcooled transmission fluid to a heat exchanger in the rear differential before traveling to the transmission. This reduces differential temperatures as much as 100 degrees F. Camaro Z/28 chassis delivers 1.05 g in cornering grip The singular focus of the Camaro Z/28 is most evident in the chassis, where the most has been made of every component for track use, from the ultra-high performance tires to race-proven dampers. "We used the very best components in the industry to deliver uncompromised performance, lap after lap," said Mark Stielow, Camaro Z/28 engineering manager. "We made nearly 200 changes to improve the track performance, which cumulatively make the Z/28 capable of 1.05 g in cornering. For perspective, with all other things, equal increasing maximum grip from 1 to 1.05 g can cut up to four seconds per lap." The Camaro Z/28 is the one of the first production cars fitted with race-proven, spool-valve dampers. Compared to a conventional damper that offers only two-way tuning for bump and rebound, a spool-valve damper allows four-way adjustment to precisely tune both bump and rebound settings for high-speed and low-speed wheel motions. The wider tuning range allowed engineers to dramatically increase the damper stiffness on the Camaro Z/28 without a significant change in ride quality. Additional chassis changes include stiffer string rates and suspension bushings for improved cornering response. The Camaro Z/28 features 19-inch diameter wheels and tires, which reduce unsprung weight by 42 pounds (19 kilograms) per car compared to the 20-inch wheels standard on Camaro SS and ZL1. In addition, the smaller diameter wheels lower the center of gravity by 33 millimeters, further improving handling. At all four corners, the lightweight, forged aluminum wheels are wrapped in massive 305/30ZR19 tires. This is the first production application of ultra-high performance Pirelli PZero Trofeo R tires, and believed to be the widest front tire on any production car. To fully exploit the grip of the Pirelli tires, the Camaro Z/28 also features Brembo Carbon Ceramic Matrix™ rotors and fixed, monoblock calipers. The large 394 x 36 mm front rotors are paired with six-piston calipers, while the 390 x 32 mm rear rotors are paired four-piston calipers. Compared to similar-size, two-piece steel rotors, the lightweight carbon discs save 28 pounds (12.5 kilograms) per car. The combination of tire grip and braking power enable the Camaro Z/28 to achieve up to 1.5 g in deceleration. With standard front brake cooling ducts, the Z/28 is also capable of continuous track use unmatched brake feel, lap after lap. "What makes the Z/28 so addictive is it inspires confidence through every section on the track," said Stielow. "The incredible, balanced performance helps you carry much more speed through every corner: the brakes are so good you can adjust your braking points later and later; the grip and suspension damping allows you to carry more speed through the apex; and then the limited slip allows you to make the most of the LS7 as you power out of the corner." Extensive lightweighting saved 300 pounds over the Camaro ZL1 To optimize the track performance of the Camaro Z/28, the engineering team subjected it to an intensive lightweighting program, saving 100 pounds (45 kilograms) compared to the naturally aspirated Camaro SS and 300 pounds (136 kilograms) to the supercharged Camaro ZL1. "We looked at every subsystem for opportunities to save weight," said Oppenheiser. "Our goal was to get rid of everything that didn't make the car faster, and keep only what was required by law. For example, we wanted to eliminate the audio system completely, but we had to keep a single speaker for the seat-belt chime to meet safety requirements." Other examples of weight savings include: Eliminated the tire-inflator kit, except for Rhode Island and New Hampshire, where it is required by law Removed interior sound deadener, and carpeting from the trunk Replaced the standard LN4 battery with a smaller, lightweight, LN3 battery Specified thinner, 3.2-mm glass for the rear window, compared to 3.5-mm glass on the standard Camaro HID headlamps and foglights are not available Air conditioning is only available as a stand-alone option "The team was so fanatical about saving weight, we even stripped the unused wiring out of the harness when we eliminated the fog lights, speakers, and air conditioning," said Oppenheiser. "Every ounce saved contributed to making this the most track-capable Camaro we have ever built, and a worthy successor to the Z/28 name." View full article