Car News

The new 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 has a surprise in store for true performance enthusiasts – an optional SVT Performance Package. One lap around the racetrack, and drivers will feel the difference.



Data show the 2011 coupe with the SVT Performance Package is 3.0 seconds faster per lap than the 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 on a 2.3-mile test track. Cars with the optional package will be able to pull 1.0 lateral g, with stopping distances improved by 7 percent versus the base 2011 Shelby.



“More and more enthusiasts are putting their cars on the track to have some fun,” said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby American. “It’s a great way to enjoy the performance of your car in a safe environment. No one likes to run at the back of the field, so a track-oriented package is a smart option for the serious Ford Shelby GT500 owner.”



Tires make the difference

The SVT Performance Package features the first application of the all-new Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2, a tire that offers superb dry traction and precise handling, complete with a high-performance tread compound with more grip. SVT engineers worked directly with Goodyear to develop the new compound, and it’s only available on the Ford Shelby GT500. The tire is unidirectional, corner-specific – meaning the directional tread must match its specific location.



“We wanted to couple the improved weight distribution and the improved handling of the vehicle with the new tire, and with that offer the customer one of the most advanced summer tires from a manufacturer,” said Jamal Hameedi, SVT chief nameplate engineer. “That led us down a road to the new tire. It’s instantly recognizable with an all-new tread pattern and construction.”



The new ultra-high-performance compound is made of a proprietary blend of race-derived carbon black and high-stiffness polymers and resins that help deliver enhanced wet and dry handling performance on both the road and track. Asymmetrical, directional tread designs with massive tread blocks on the outboard side of the tire help enhance dry cornering grip. Sweeping Aquachannel™ grooves on the inboard side of the tread help move water. An innovative multi-radius mold shape offers precise handling and smooth, even wear.



“These tires are as close as you can get to a race car tire,” said Eric Zinkosky, SVT technical specialist. “We have a tire that’s way more capable, with better grip, is firmer and more race-oriented. From there, we tuned the chassis around it. The tires told us what we had to do.



“We took some lessons from the Shelby KR program and applied them to these tires,” he added. “That was our first attempt at a similar compound, and we learned a lot and rolled those lessons into the new Shelby to provide an even better tire.”



Nineteen-inch forged-aluminum wheels in the front, which are 4.7 pounds lighter than the base Shelby GT500’s, complement the all-new wider 265/40R-19 front tires. New 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels at the rear are 2.8 pounds lighter than the standard 19-inch wheel, and the new 3.73 rear axle ratio takes advantage of the new larger rear wheels and tires.

Featuring bold looks, a powerful V-6 engine and Acura’s acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™  system, the 2010 Acura RL demonstrates that refined luxury is complemented perfectly by advanced technology and performance adrenaline. In addition to delivering luxury, style and performance, Acura’s top-of-the-line sedan keeps drivers more connected to their world, and the world around them, by featuring the latest in intuitive, easy-to-use, state-of-the-art technology.



“If a customer is looking for the perfect blend of luxury, performance and safety, then look no further than the 2010 Acura RL”, said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. “It would be hard to find a production car at any price that offers more advanced technology or drive system sophistication.”



The 2010 RL is available in three variations: RL, RL with Technology Package and RL with Technology Package Plus CMBS™. All RL’s feature as standard a potent 3.7-liter VTEC® V-6 engine, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, leather trimmed interior, power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control system, power moonroof, power windows, leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, Multi-Information Display (MID) that allows access to multiple electronic functions, Acura/Bose® Surround Sound audio system and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® connectivity.



The available Technology Package includes the satellite-linked Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™, rear view back-up camera, Active Front Lighting System (AFS), ventilated front seats, and a simulated wood accented steering wheel and shift knob. The top RL package is the Technology Package with CMBS™ which adds Acura’s acclaimed Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and genuine maple wood instrument panel trim.

Kia Forte Koup may outputs 156 hp and 144 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels, as it’s powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine which coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission or a electronically controlled 4-speed automatic gearbox. 2010 Kia Forte Koup will also be available with a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine developing 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque.

Kia Forte Koup also comes equipped with multi-port electronic fuel injection and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT).

Forte Koup’s fluid lines and balanced proportions, meant to evoke an emotional driving experience, closely mirror the powerful design cues of the concept vehicle and offer the same aggressive stance with swept-back wrap-around headlamps, aggressive air intakes and a low, sleek profile. Available in two trim levels (EX and SX), Kia Forte Koup offers a muscular yet sophisticated design. Even from behind, Forte Koup exudes attitude with slim, wrapped tail lights, duel exhaust outlets and a rear diffuser.

Athleticism and convenience are standard for the Kia Forte Koup EX with body-color bumpers, power heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and 16-inch alloy wheels outfitted with P205/55R16 tires. The SX trim offers an even sportier profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires.

Kia Forte Koup EX is driven by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque, more than the Scion tC. Expanding upon the dynamic look and feel, Forte Koup’s engine hums powerfully courtesy of the dual exhaust outlets outfitted on both EX and SX trims.

With a surprisingly spacious interior for a two-door coupe, Kia Forte Koup provides a comfortable 90.7 cubic feet of interior volume, larger than the 2009 Honda Civic Coupe, Scion tC or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe. Driver and passengers have an impressive 38.7 inches of headroom and 43.6 inches of legroom in the front seats and 35.3 inches of headroom and 33.9 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Trips to the beach and weekend getaways will be a breeze with ample cargo space of 12.6 cubic feet, enough to accommodate luggage and belongings of all passengers. Air conditioning, a driver’s seat height adjuster, adjustable rear seat headrests, tilt steering column, rear defroster, center console with dual cup holders, map lamps and variable intermittent wipers are also just some of the myriad amenities standard on every vehicle. Also standard on all models are power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry and cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls for added convenience. An optional Leather Package is available for both EX and SX trims. When combined with the EX trim the Leather Package adds leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and heated seats. When paired with the SX trim it includes leather and heated seats in addition to the standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

For inside entertainment while cruising down the road, Kia Forte Koup comes with a standard six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service. For added listening convenience steering wheel-mounted audio controls also come standard on all models, as well as USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit. Standard Bluetooth® connectivity enables hands-free operation for compatible cell phones.

Forte Koup offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

The advanced propulsion system in the Jeep Renegade concept starts with a 40-mile lithium-ion battery pack. A range extender - in Renegade's case, a small-displacement (1.5-liter, 3-cylinder) BLUETEC diesel engine - allows for journeys beyond 40 miles. In fact, the Jeep Renegade concept boasts a 400-mile range.

Renegade's BLUETEC diesel engine generates an additional 115 horsepower when needed, while greatly reducing exhaust emissions when compared to standard gasoline engines. Renegade is capable of achieving an equivalent petroleum fuel economy of 110 miles per gallon, which is four-to-five times greater than an equivalent gasoline-only vehicle.

The all-new Jeep Renegade concept's lightweight aluminium architecture and regen-braking system help to improve overall efficiency, while dual electric 200 kilowatt (268 horsepower) motors propel a very capable 4x4 system - complete with low range and locking differentials -- worthy of carrying the Jeep name.

 Layout: Four wheel drive with low range and locking differentials,Motor: Dual electric,Power: 200 kW (268 hp) x 2,Regenerative braking,Battery: 16 kWh Li-ion battery pack,Range extender: 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder diesel,Fuel volume: 10 gallons.

The Mazda CX-7 is geared toward driving enthusiasts who desire a highly styled, roomy and affordable performance SUV. But do not let its good looks fool you. The CX-7 is powered by a 244-horsepower, 2.3-liter turbocharged engine centered on performance, and, like all Mazdas, has the soul of a sportscar.

The 2009 CX-7 adds minor enhancements to its standard and optional features. All models receive MP3 capability and an auxiliary audio input jack as standard equipment. Sport models add leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The Grand Touring trim adds auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink and side turn signals integrated into the exterior mirror housings. Bluetooth hands-free phone capability and Sirius satellite radio are added to the Technology Package and Moonroof. It features performance worthy of a sportscar, but also offers room and space for five. The four-cylinder CX-7 offers more horsepower and torque than most of its V6-equipped competitors. The 66-degree windshield angle is sleeker than many sportscars. Distinct character lines run through the A-pillars and along the edges of the hood to the front fascia.

The side profile sports an aggressively rising belt line, a curved roof and prominent fender arches, producing Mazda's unique signature. A tapered cabin rests securely on the lower body's broad shoulders. From the rear, the detailed round motif tail lamp and large dual exhaust outlets.

This distinctive overall exterior design is well balanced with the aerodynamics of the vehicle. CX-7's shape is aerodynamically efficient with best-in-class performance for coefficient of drag (0.34 Cd). While it provides outstanding aerodynamic performance, this exterior design does not compromise craftsmanship. Panel and component part-gaps are flush and tight. Wiper arms are configured to match the surrounding cowl design and minimize wind noise.

An advanced and sporty image was pursued in designing the interior. For the two-tone trim, the side surface two-tone graphic reaching from the front doors all the way to the cargo space stylishly harmonizes with the kicked-up beltline of the exterior side view. A high level of craftsmanship completes the interior design. The chief designer mapped out the CX-7 with ample space for five occupants. The lockable center console can swallow a compact laptop computer and space is provided for coins and sunglasses. Front door pockets are handy locations for beverage bottles. Two cup holders in the center console offer a stable place to carry large containers without interfering with shift lever operation. A pocket attached to the front seatback is ideal for maps and brochures. The heart of every Mazda is its spirited powertrain. Under the hood of the CX-7 is a version of the turbocharged and intercooled 2.3-liter four-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine, similar to that fitted to the MAZDASPEED3. Engineered to deliver high performance at all speeds, along with low exhaust emissions and excellent fuel economy. Key building blocks are aluminum block and head construction with forged internal components - crankshaft and connecting rods for long-lasting durability. Balance shafts curb noise and vibration. A large air-to-air intercooler and direct fuel injection cools temperature inside the cylinders.

Advanced transmission and drive components pass the engine's power cleanly to the pavement. The six-speed Sport AT automatic transmission provides the full manual control demanded by assertive drivers.

Sensors monitor engine information, individual wheel speeds, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) operation, and the CX-7's standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system to optimize torque distribution. Whether the driving conditions are dry and fast or slippery and moderately paced, exceptional handling is assured.

In front, a perimeter frame mounted to the unibody through six rubber isolators supports the powertrain, the engine-speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering and a low friction MacPherson strut suspension system. To minimize cargo-compartment intrusion, the rear spring is positioned between the lower lateral member and the cross member that anchors rear chassis hardware to the unibody. The damper is located between the wheel hub and the unibody to provide excellent motion control with minimal friction. CX-7's rigid unibody uses the Mazda Advanced Impact Energy Distribution and Absorption System to realize high levels of collision safety and helps to protect occupants in various accident situations, including front, side and rear impacts.

A special sensor anticipates a roll-over and inflates the side-curtain air bags early to guard against injury, maintaining inflation for approximately six seconds to help keep limbs out of harm's way. Front occupant restraints have pretensioner and load-limiter mechanisms to maximize their effectiveness. To delight, the Mazda CX-7 offers a wealth of entertainment gear. Another convenient feature available on the Grand Touring model is the Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry & Start System. Without removing the card-shaped device from one's pocket, doors can be unlocked and the engine can be started (or stopped). Also, the front-seat power windows can be operated from outside the car, and the optional moonroof can be opened and closed. Some of the highlights of the standard features on the base Sport model are manual air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, retractable key, cruise control, MP3 capability, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and six air bags. The Touring edition adds leather trim (seats, steering wheel, shift knob), power adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats and a retractable cargo cover. In top-line Grand Touring trim, CX-7 is equipped with features such as leather with a black sport seat stripe, high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, fog lamps, body-color mirrors, chrome door handles, automatic interior climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink and side turn signals integrated into the exterior mirror housing.

The new Ford Explorer with an available EcoBoost2.0-liter I-4. Combining direct injection of gasoline and turbocharging, this advanced engine delivers performance comparable to normally aspirated competitive V6 engines. Developing up to 237 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, this I-4 delivers 250 lb.-ft. of torque.Estimated fuel economy improves by more than 30 percent, putting the fuel efficiency of the Ford Explorer in line with sedans such as the 2010 Toyota Camry V6.Like other Ford EcoBoost engines, peak torque is generated at a low 1,700 rpm across a broad band to 4,000 rpm. This torque plateau makes for flexible, efficient power delivery across a wide range of engine and vehicle speeds, while helping save fuel by making power at lower rpm levels. Ti-VCT, four valves per cylinder and DAMB valve lifters increase mechanical efficiency through improved engine breathing across the broad power and torque bands.A relatively high compression ratio is enabled by the use of direct gasoline injection, operating at fuel pressures from 2,200 to 2,800 psi. The unique turbocharger is optimally matched to the EcoBoost I-4 engine and SUV vehicle performance behavior. Precise fuel pressure control allows the Ford Explorer I-4 to deliver boosted power at low rpm, without annoying turbo lag.The EcoBoost I-4 uses 5W30-GF4 oil to reduce friction and reduce cost of ownership through 10,000-mile oil change intervals.

The Cadillac Cien was a concept car created by Cadillac and unveiled at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show. The Cadillac Cien had a 7.5 L V12 Northstar XV12 engine, which produced 750 hp. This experimental engine featured direct injection and Displacement on Demand, which allowed the engine to run on only six cylinders under light load. The Cien was designed at General Motors' Advanced Design Studio in England. The Cien's low, sleek style was inspired by the F-22 Raptor.

The car was featured prominently in the 2005 film, The Island, directed by Michael Bay. It was also in Gran Turismo 4, Project Gotham Racing 3, Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition and in Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition Remix.

This is the A9 sports sedan study, a look at BMW's Vision concept through Audi's eyes (unofficially of course) that was created by independent designer Daniel Garcia from Spain. Just as BMW tried to invent a new market with its 5-Series GT, the Audi A9 would aim to be in a league of its own: over-styled (in a good way) über-luxury hybrid sports saloons. A technologically-advanced Panamera killer. Garcia says some of the lines were inspired by architect Santiago Calatrava's buildings in Valencia. As for that opaque front wind-ceiling, it's made of "as-yet undiscovered nanotechnology material" that can fix itself and be color/tint adjusted. By the time a market for something like this existed, it's very likely that Audi could have the gasoline engine / in-wheel electric motors Garcia is suggesting. The only thing I'd rectify is that Insight-y front end.

The 79th Geneva International Motor Show provides the venue for Ferrari to announce two new pieces of good news: the arrival of the sporty, dynamic Handling GT Evoluzione (HGTE) Package for the 599 GTB Fiorano and the world debut of the 599XX which is a technological laboratory aimed at a select group of clients. The latter new car incorporates the most advanced technologies resulting from Ferrari's road-going and F1 research. Many of the technological solutions it carries are being used for the first time and have been developed exclusively for this special car. In addition to the 599 GTB Fiorano equipped with the Handling GTE package and finished in a new three-layer metallic Rosso, and the 599XX in a colour matching the F2008, Ferrari clients and enthusiasts will also be able to admire this single-seater that recently won the Prancing Horse its 16th Constructors' World title.

Audi A9 Concept Design by Daniel Garcia



This is the Audi A9 Concept sedan study, a look at BMW's Vision concept through Audi's eyes (unofficially of course) that was created by independent designer Daniel Garcia from Spain.





Just as BMW tried to invent a new market with its 5-Series GT, the Audi A9 Concept would aim to be in a league of its own: over-styled (in a good way) über-luxury hybrid sports saloons. A technologically-advanced Panamera killer.





Garcia says some of the lines were inspired by architect Santiago Calatrava's buildings in Valencia. As for that opaque front wind-ceiling, it's made of "as-yet undiscovered nanotechnology material" that can fix itself and be color/tint adjusted.





By the time a market for something like this existed, it's very likely that Audi could have the gasoline engine / in-wheel electric motors Garcia is suggesting.

The new Mercedes-Benz CL-Class is characterized by the taught profile of the hood, the dynamic V-shape radiator grille and the curving headlamps - design details that discreetly but effectively emphasize the car's elegant yet powerful lines.The 2011 CL-Class further enforces its position as an automotive masterwork and a technology platform with the most advanced assistance and protection systems.If the driver fails to react even after automatic, partial braking action, this new version of PRE-SAFE® Brake activates maximum braking pressure around 0.6 seconds before an unavoidable collision - this emergency braking action can significantly mitigate the severity of the impact. The PRE-SAFE® Brake thus acts as a kind of "electronic crumple zone".The new Mercedes CL Class also assumes a pioneering role with its drivetrain. Under the hood of the CL550 4MATIC a new V8 biturbo engine with BlueDIRECT technology delivers impressive power. With its 4663 cc displacement, the eight-cylinder engine produces 429 hp so that despite 0.8 liters less displacement, it is still around 12 percent more powerful than its predecessor, which had an output of 382 hp. At the same time, torque was raised from 391 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft - an increase of 32 percent. The new engine achieves a 10-15% improvement in fuel economy and 23% improvement in CO2 emissions. The CL550 4MATIC requires a mere 4.9 seconds to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph (previous model: 5.4 seconds).The CL600, with its 510 hp 12-cylinder biturbo engine and 612 lb-ft. of torque remains the top-of-the-line model: it accelerates the luxury coupé from a standstill to 60 mph in a breathtaking 4.5 seconds.

I.D.E.A KAZ is a luxury limousine concept introduced last 2001. KAZ which means Keio Advanced Zero emission vehicle is equipped with eight wheels and six of them are intended for turning. Each of the eight wheels are all powered by an electric motor which makes this vehicle environment friendly because it has zero emissions.

Citroën DS3 Racing is a special edition with a 100% sporting pedigree.The exclusive Citroën DS3 Racing will be limited to just 1000 production units.With integrated carbon-trimmed components and specialist motorsports equipment, Citroën DS3 Racing's tuned and turbo-charged 1.6-litre THP 150 engine develops 200hp - a power increase of almost 30% over the standard unit - with a torque increase of 15% from 240Nm to 275Nm.The Citroën DS3  front wheels get 4-piston racing callipers and special disc-brakes - with drilled discs at the rear.The new Citroën DS3 Racing edition inherits Citroën Racing's expertise in motorsport design to provide advanced technological and stylistic sporting prowess.Based on the existing DSport powered by the THP 150, production Citroën DS3 Racing editions will be finished in a special workshop and fitted with a parts kit developed according to Citroën Racing specifications.

Citroën REVOLTe Concept also provides the option of CO2-free driving with the ability to run in all-electric ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode.At the very front of Citroën REVOLTe Concept, a backlit glass element is incorporated into the grille - this original feature highlights the chevrons above, subtly asserting the concept's identity as true Citroën.Citroën looking to the future by taking inspiration from its cool past. Where the 2CV was plain and neutral, REVOLTe is luxurious and colourful; where the 2CV was basic and simple, Citroën REVOLTe Concept is intelligent and technologically advanced and where the 2CV was slow and bouncy, REVOLTe is lively and spirited.Citroën REVOLTe is  a visually-stunning low stance, Citroën REVOLTe Concept measures just 3.68m long, 1.73m wide and 1.35m tall.

Hyundai Blue-Will is a plug-in hybrid concept car. Hyundai Blue-Will concept is powered by a Gasoline Direct Injected 1.6-litre engine with Continuously Variable Transmission and a 100kw electric motor. Hyundai Blue-Will’s electric power is stored in Lithium Ion Polymer batteries which, together with the fuel tank, are located under the rear seats. Hyundai Blue-Will, has exceptionally advanced technology crammed inside its striking bodyshell. Recycled PET soft drink bottles were used to make the material for the headlamp bezels while use has also been made of bio-plastics: PLA for the interior while PA11 was specified for the engine cover. These materials are made from plants extract rather than fossil fuels and are bio-degradable. Hyundai Blue-Will features  a 100kw electric motor which is at the heart of Hyundai’s parallel hybrid drive architecture. Hyundai Blue-Will's design flexibility is found on the panoramic roof. The glass area integrates dye-sensitized solar cells which can generate power for the batteries from the sun without impeding visibility.

Nissan Qazana is  4060mm in length, 1780 in wide, and 1570mm in tall, Nissan Qazana concept also has a wheelbase of 2530mm. issan Qazana would be ideally suited to the urban environment. Yet its advanced specification and energetic styling suggest an ability that goes far beyond the city walls. At the same time, rounded elements – notably the wheel arches and bonnet – evoke a friendly ambiance and provide a link with existing Nissan Crossovers. Indeed, Qazana has the signature Crossover design detail in the rising window line at the rear, also found on Murano and Qashqai. The profile is dominated by the prominent wheel arches and by the body’s high waistline, which combine to give an impression of strength and which contrast vividly with the slim side windows. The graphite coloured spats contrast vividly with the bold exterior colour, a unique shade called White Titanium, and the strikingly styled 20 inch black chrome alloy wheels. A one-piece acrylic moulding, no cooling air can pass through the grille. Instead, the lower portion of the bumper, finished in a contrasting graphite colour, is dominated by a number of large holes for air to reach the radiator. See through acrylic mouldings are also used for the door mirrors.

The FT-HS incorporates hybrid capability while maintaining sports car essentials, such as a sleek profile, lightweight aero-dynamic materials, and an advanced high-output powertrain for revolutionary acceleration and optimal performance.The lean skeletal look is achieved with exposed cross-car architecture and high-tech materials such as carbon fiber, and titanium. FT-HS' interior features create a dedicated driver's cockpit which include subtractive mass expressions such as cross-car instrument panel structure and delta wing driver pod. The delta-wing driver's pod integrates many useful functions into a lightweight structural unit.For example, touch-trace sensors which surround the driver and act as tactile guides for finger controls when traveling at high speeds.

By eliminating the "B" pillar and creating a suspended "C" pillar, the minimalist style works in conjunction with subtractive mass.

The new XK delivers more power, more performance and more technology – without compromise.All-new AJ-V8 Gen III direct-injection engines are the most advanced and efficient engines Jaguar has ever produced: 5.0-litre naturally aspirated AJ-V8 Gen III engine delivers 385PS (385bhp SAE), 515Nm of torque and propels XK to 60mph in just 5.2 seconds.The New Jaquar XK is Improved CO 2 emissions performance (Euro Stage V compliant two years ahead of legislative requirement) and fuel economy comparable to the less powerful 4.2-litre engines they replace.Jaquar XK With the introduction of these all-new 5.0-litre direct-injection V8 engines comes a new level of performance for the XK, with improved acceleration from standstill and stunning in-gear acceleration times. All models are electronically limited to a maximum speed of 155mph (250kph), but the 0-60mph sprint for naturally aspirated coupe models is now 5.2 seconds (previously 5.9 seconds), while for the supercharged XKR coupe, 0-60mph is 4.6 seconds (previously 4.9 seconds).

In-gear times are equally impressive, with the naturally aspirated XK accelerating from 50-70mph in just 2.5 seconds.

The DBS is manufactured using the finest materials, with a combination of hand-finishing and pioneering high-technology processes. From the exceptional quality of the design and finish to the advanced production techniques employed to save weight and create strength, the DBS is both a technological masterpiece and a powerful visual and tactile experience, inside and out. The DBS is the culmination of the DB bloodline, a synthesis of race-bred technology and road-going practicality that can be traced back to the iconic DB2, DB3S and DB4GT, and is continued today with the DBR9 and DBRS9 race cars. The DBS's powerful, flowing form fuses the visual language of the DBR9 GT1 race car with the innate elegance of the DB series. Lower and tauter than other Aston Martin production models, the DBS has subtly flared wheel arches accommodating standard 20' diameter wheels and tyres. These provide excellent stability and grip, while giving the car a muscular and athletic stance that evokes the DBR9 and DBRS9. The design process involved continuous revision and honing of the DBS's surfaces, ensuring that the shapes and forms represent perfectly the car's inherent power, while never diluting the fundamental proportions that are the essence of every Aston Martin. The external detailing reflects the power and dynamic abilities of the DBS, with revised inlets and enlarged grilles that deliver more air into the engine and increase its cooling capacity. Subtle design details include a new five-bar design for the polished alloy main grille, as well as two additional vents in the enlarged power bulge on the carbon-fibre bonnet. These vents are entirely functional, improving engine performance and efficiency, yet also communicating the increased power output of the uprated V12 engine. The DBS's aerodynamic enhancements are shaped by Aston Martin's racing experience. A carbon-fibre splitter and a new front bumper design help channel airflow around the car's wider bodywork. The aerodynamics team worked hand in hand with the modelling team to ensure that the forms and surfaces of DBS were sculpted for inherent stability at high speeds. The widened front and rear track improve handling and give the car a more muscular character. To accommodate this additional width, the surfaces of the wings have been sculpted and re-shaped with harder lines, which also serve to emphasise the car's strength and power. The lowered ride height is accentuated by the enhanced side sills, carefully profiled to improve aerodynamic performance and reduce drag along the flanks. The iconic Aston Martin side strake, a design feature of every DB car since the DB4, has been redesigned for the DBS, incorporating a side repeater formed by a bank of LEDs. Improved aerodynamics shape the rear of the DBS, where the more prominent boot spoiler is carefully incorporated into the carbon-fibre boot lid. A horizontal chrome finisher is set into the lid to accentuate the wide track of the new car. The car's flat undertray helps to improve the aerodynamics of the underbody surface and culminates in a new carbon-fibre rear diffuser, another feature carried over from the race cars. This device creates an area of low pressure beneath the rear of the car, reducing lift and improving high-speed stability without the need for large, unsightly external spoilers. The new one-piece diffuser also incorporates the DBS's large and distinctive twin exhaust tailpipes. The interior of the DBS represents the epitome of Aston Martin's commitment to using materials honestly, without disguise or embellishment. Lightweight materials are used throughout to save weight; door pulls are made from carbon-fibre, for example, and the carpet has been woven with lighter fibres to save valuable kilograms. Special semi-aniline leather is used throughout the cabin, saving weight as well as giving a soft feel and distinctive aroma. The DBS features unique primary controls, including a new steering wheel profile with a twin-stitched detail marker that indicates the ‘on-centre' position. The gear knob is fashioned from polished alloy to echo the metallic finishes on the new centre console. The instrument cluster is designed with white numerals on a dark graphite background for excellent legibility. The twin-stitch pattern runs through the interior as a signature device; the alignment of both stitch lines is testament to Aston Martin's ongoing tradition of exceptional craftsmanship. The DBS start sequence blends tradition with high technology and a touch of theatre. The ignition ECU (Emotion Control Unit) has evolved into a machined and highly tactile polished sapphire ECU, incorporating a stainless steel inner case. Resembling a fine wristwatch or a piece of contemporary sculptural jewellery, this sapphire ECU epitomises the spirit of the DBS. To operate the car, the sapphire ECU is inserted into a special docking station in Aston Martin's signature dashboard-mounted sapphire starter button, and glows red to indicate when the car is ready to start. The engine is fired by pressing the ECU flush with the surface of the starter button. After pressing to stop the engine, the ECU automatically motors out of the dashboard for removal. The start sequence of the DBS is augmented by an all-new centre console design with a cast metal surround, crisp typography and new graphics. The new console has a traditional dial-face clock at the centre, flanked by two rotary controls for the heating and air-conditioning system, fashioned from solid, turned aluminium. These controls are also used to navigate the audio system, Bluetooth telephone preparation and satellite navigation functions. The Aston Martin 700 W Audio System, with Dolby® Pro Logic II® has been exclusively developed for Aston Martin to provide outstanding sound quality. A slot for the six-CD autochanger is located at the top of the console, while within the centre armrest cubby box there is inbuilt connectivity for MP3 players. Bluetooth telephone preparation is standard on the DBS, enabling you to synchronise your mobile telephone directory through the car's display screens. It can also display the last 10 calls received, made and missed.

N24 racing car. Originally conceived as a GT4 car, it gradually evolved into a potential GT2 contender, which was the only GT class Aston Martin did not cater for at the time. Early testing at Goodwood showed potential and the GT2 Vantage was officially announced in January of 2008. Customers now had their choice of GT1 (DBR9), GT2 (V8 Vantage), GT3 (DBRS) and GT4 (N24) Aston Martins. While developing the car, the engineers had considerable more room for modifications than with the N24 Vantage, which was virtually stock. What remained unchanged was the advanced bonded aluminum chassis. The double wishbone suspension was also lifted off the road car but the geometry was changed to accommodate for the wider tires. The standard aluminum body, with the exception of the roof, was replaced with lighter and more durable carbon fiber panels. The road car's 4.3 liter V8 engine was increased in size slightly to just under 4.5 liter. This was done to get an intake-restrictor size that best suited the characteristics of the engine. Interestingly Ferrari actually sliced displacement off their F430 V8 engine for the same reason. Although no official figures have been released, we expect the restricted V8 to produce around 480 bhp. The dry-sump competition engine was mated to a six-speed sequential gearbox that was mounted in unit with the differential. Two principles customers were found for the new Aston Martin racing car. In Europe the car would be raced by James Watt Automotive, while Drayson Racing would take one stateside for the American Le Mans Series. Awaiting the arrival of their new car, Drayson campaigned their DBRS9 in the ALMS' opening rounds. The first public appearance of the GT2 Vantage came at the Le Mans Series test at Paul Ricard. The car was clearly still under development but the test gave Aston Martin the opportunity to test the waters against real opposition. The same prototype car was entered in the season opening Catalunya 1000 km race but it was withdrawn after the morning warm-up with engine problems. Later that month the first production car was delivered to Drayson in time for the high profile Long Beach ALMS race. It was considerably off the pace but did manage to reach the finish. The team put on a valiant effort the remainder of the season but continued to struggle to match the competition for pace and reliability. Back in Europe, the prototype made an appearance in the FIA GT test at Spa but did not take part in the 24 Hours later in the month. James Watt Automotive finally took delivery of their V8 Vantage in September and campaigned it in the Le Mans Series season finale at Silverstone. It completed the race in 33rd overall and 8th in class. In October the prototype was raced in two FIA GT races. Facing little opposition, the car won the G2 class at both occasions. Although James Watt Automotive announced a two car entry for the Le Mans Series, Drayson was the only team to race the V8 Vantage in 2009. On the schedule are the Le Mans Series and the major long distance events. The season kicked off at Sebring where the GT2 machine was noticeably quicker but again suffered an engine failure. Back in Europe the team's second V8 Vantage performed better securing an 8th and 6th in class. The next race will the 24 Hours of Le Mans.