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2009 Aston Martin DBS with TouchTronic 2

October 2nd 2008 00:15
2009 Aston Martin DBS


A year after making its debut as the flagship of the Aston Martin range, the awesome DBS supercar has been updated with a new ‘Touchtronic 2’ transmission and greater personalisation capabilities for the 2009 model year including a new Bang & Olufsen audio system, the availability of 2-plus-2 seating and a new lightweight wheel option.


2009 Aston Martin DBS


The optional ‘Touchtronic 2’ six-speed automatic transmission is derived from the same ZF transaxle unit that was developed for the DB9 but the system has been substantially re-engineered to accommodate the power and performance characteristics of the DBS while retaining the performance potential of the manual gear box - matching the 0-100km/h time of 4.3 seconds.

A new set of multi-spoke 20-inch’ forged aluminium wheels with diamond-turned surface is also available in either silver or graphite finishes. These wheels are super lightweight and reduces the unsprung of the DBS by up to 8kg for further improved driving dynamics such as handling, improved acceleration and braking performance.


2009 Aston Martin DBS


Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The DBS is the ultimate expression of Aston Martin’s engineering and technical ability. It offers pure performance without compromise.”

The Official Aston Martin Press Release:

ASTON MARTIN INTRODUCE TOUCHTRONIC OPTION TO DBS

Gaydon, 29 September - One year after making its first public appearance at the 2007 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Aston Martin have confirmed details of a number of enhancements for the company’s flagship DBS, including the introduction of a ‘Touchtronic 2’ transmission.

A series of additional features to provide customers with even greater personalisation capabilities are also introduced - including a new Bang & Olufsen audio system, the availability of 2 2 seating and a new lightweight wheel option.

Touchtronic
Introduced as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox, DBS customers will now be afforded the option of the ‘Touchtronic 2’ six-speed automatic transmission. Derived from the same ZF transaxle unit that was developed for the DB9, the system has been substantially re-engineered to accommodate the power and performance characteristics of the DBS.

The DBS Touchtronic transmission features a final drive ratio shortened from 3.15:1 to 3.46:1, aiding quicker acceleration times and an improved performance feel. Additionally, changes to the gearbox calibration aid more aggressive gear shifts and greater usability, while retaining the performance potential of the manual gear box – matching the 0-60mph (0-100km/h) time of 4.3 seconds. System functionality is consistent with that on the DB9, with ‘Park’, ‘Reverse’, ‘Neutral’ and ‘Drive’ modes selected via facia mounted controls.

When in ‘Drive’ mode, pulling either of the leather-trimmed magnesium alloy paddles mounted on the steering column will activate Touchtronic mode, enabling the driver to control gear shifts via the paddles. Touchtronic mode is also accessible directly on engine start-up or directly from ‘Reverse’. Alternatively, the ‘Drive’ mode can be selected at any time by pressing the ‘D’ control on the centre console, engaging a fully automatic mode which will select the most appropriate gear for the speed and driving conditions automatically.

The system also includes a ‘Sport’ mode - activated by a button on the centre console – which engages a more aggressive gear shift strategy as gear changes feel sharper and more forceful, engine speed matching on downshifts is more aggressive and in full automatic mode, upshifts occur at higher speeds. The Sport setting also incorporates a more responsive throttle map to match the high-performance characteristics of the DBS.

Bang & Olufsen Audio
The DBS will now also benefit from the installation of a new Bang & Olufsen BeoSound system – developed specifically for the DBS – as standard equipment. The BeoSound DBS system produces a total power output of 1000W, delivering the sound image through a total of 13 channels across 10 speaker locations. Adopting new speaker grille designs throughout the car and acoustic lenses which rise out of the facia, the system offers customers an unrivalled audio experience.

Enhanced Option Range
After evaluating customer feedback the DBS will now also be offered with an optional 2 2 seating configuration, where the rear storage areas are replaced with two seats. A 2 0 arrangement – where two storage areas populate the rear environment – remains standard.

Also introduced to the DBS is the option of a new 10-spoke 20’’ forged aluminium wheel with diamond-turned surface – available in either silver or graphite finishes. The optional wheel delivers a total unsprung mass reduction of 8kg versus the standard cast wheel, aiding enhanced handling and improved acceleration and braking performance.

The Aston Martin DBS is a 6.0-litre V12 powered, race-bred, two-seater shaped by the aerodynamic demands of high performance, with an exquisite interior that marries beautifully hand-finished materials with the very latest in performance technology.

A combination of elegant design, innovative manufacturing processes, race-derived materials and components and Aston Martin’s unrivalled hand-build expertise makes the DBS a luxury sports car without equal. Every line, crease and curve conveys the enormous potential of the DBS, a seductive blend of refinement and raw power, provided by the hand-built V12 producing 380 kW (510 bhp/517 PS) and a top speed of 191mph (307km/h).

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The DBS is the ultimate expression of Aston Martin’s engineering and technical ability. It offers pure performance without compromise.”

The DBS is built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters at Gaydon, near Warwickshire in the UK and almost 300 examples have now been built and delivered to customers around the world since production began at the end of 2007.

Prices for the DBS start at £162,500 ($269,000) for the six-speed manual and £165,500 ($273,000) for the Touchtronic.


[Source: Aston Martin]








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Bentley Arnage Final Series

September 25th 2008 00:15
Bentley Arnage Final Series


Luxury car maker Bentley has announced the debut of the Arnage Final Series limited edition model for the upcoming Paris Motor Show to mark the end of the current model's ten-year run at the top-end of the luxury car segment.

"The Final Series is the perfect model to give our Arnage flagship a splendid send off. Handcrafted at Crewe, this exclusive run of 150 cars represents the ultimate expression of Bentley luxury and effortless power."

Bentley Arnage Final Series

Bentley Arnage Final Series interior


The special edition Arnage Final Series combines the performance of the 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V8 Arnage T (373 kW) with the ultra refinement of the R with luxury features such as a rear cocktail cabinet with a Final Series stainless steel flask and two shot glasses,four Bentley umbrellas mounted in the boot and even two picnic tables available in a range of premium unbleached veneers!

The grand finale for the grandest of Bentleys is limited to just 150 obscenely wealthy customers before the next generation of the flagship model, which is yet unknown, is unveiled further down the track.

Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, said: "For 10 years, Arnage has enjoyed extraordinary success at the pinnacle of the luxury saloon market. The Final Series is a celebration of the Arnage era as Bentley prepares for the next generation of its flagship model."

Bentley Arnage Final Series interior


The Official Bentley Press Release:

BENTLEY ARNAGE FINAL SERIES

• Handcrafted at Bentley, Crewe, Arnage Final Series is an exclusive run of 150 cars, celebrating the last of Arnage
• Combining the performance of the T with the refinement of the R, Arnage Final Series is the ultimate expression of class-leading luxury and effortless power
• Arnage Final Series is the culmination of 90 years of Bentley heritage and marks the 50th anniversary of the company's iconic V8 engine
• Arnage Final Series also signals the end of an era as Bentley prepares for the future

Since its debut in 1998 the Arnage has conveyed an air of sophisticated understatement as the four-door flagship of the Bentley range. Over the last decade the car has undergone a process of constant refinement to its body, design, chassis and powertrain to maintain its class-leading position in the high luxury market.

To celebrate 10 years of the Arnage, 50 years of its mighty V8 engine and 90 years of the marque, Bentley Motors launches its limited edition model at the Paris Motor Show today.

Called the Bentley Arnage Final Series, the new model features a unique specification, combining the performance of the 500 bhp Arnage T with the refinement of the Arnage R and design elements from the Brooklands coupe, for the ultimate expression of British luxury and effortless power in a four-door saloon – a grand finale, for the grandest of Bentleys.

Hand crafted at Bentley's Crewe facility, the Final Series is an exclusive run of 150 cars, a unique example of the marque's flagship created to bid 'farewell' to the highly successful Arnage line in the most appropriate manner and style. Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, explains:

"For 10 years, Arnage has enjoyed extraordinary success at the pinnacle of the
luxury saloon market. The Final Series is a celebration of the Arnage era as Bentley
prepares for the next generation of its flagship model."

BENTLEY ARNAGE FINAL SERIES – NEWS IN BRIEF
• Limited production run of 150 cars
• Arnage T powertrain with 6 ¾ litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 500 bhp and 1000 Nm of torque
• Six-speed ZF automatic transmission with sophisticated locking torque converter provides fast yet ultra-smooth gearshifts
• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) logic system improves dynamic response and handling with less intrusive intervention when a reduction in grip is detected
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System fitted as standard
• Exterior design styling changes include:
20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels
Retractable 'Flying B' bonnet mascot
Body coloured headlamp bezels
Dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles
Lower front wing air vents
'FINAL SERIES' badge on front wings
Bentley 'Jewel' fuel filler cap
Twin exhaust tail pipes
• Interior design enhancements include:
'FINAL SERIES' treadplates to front doors
Drilled alloy brake and accelerator pedals
Waistrails with inset chrome strip and recessed Bentley marque badges (for the first time on Arnage)
Rear cocktail cabinet and document stowage trimmed in hide
FINAL SERIES stainless steel flask and shot glasses
Two picnic tables available in a range of premium unbleached veneers
• Four Bentley umbrellas with wooden handles
• Further enhancements to the standard Final Series specification include:
Large display audio head unit with Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot
Removable rear cup holders for rear centre armrest
Hide covered boot rail
• Further enhancements to the Final Series optional specification include:
- iPod interface
- Rear remote control for infotainment system
- Naim for Bentley audio system: 1100W, 10 speakers and next generation Digital Signal Processing (DSP) with 8 modes to create the world's best in-car sound stage.

A COMMANDING ROAD PRESENCE
For the last ten years the Arnage's combination of muscular lines and understated luxury have endowed it with a commanding road presence synonymous with all Bentley Grand Tourers, subtly conveying the car's formidable performance potential.

This powerful exterior profile is underpinned by a torsionally stiff bodyshell (with an astonishing 6,500 spot welds) that helps to deliver outstanding ride and refinement. Based on the sporting Arnage T, the Final Series offers a range of discreet exterior cues that further enhance its powerful stance. Key ingredients of the distinctive appearance include a dark-tinted Bentley matrix radiator grille with Flying 'B' mascot and dark-tinted lower grille. The iconic Flying 'B', which can retract neatly into the grille surround, was originally designed by motoring artist F. Gordon Crosby and was first used on the 1930 Bentley 8-Litre.

The Arnage Final Series is further distinguished by exterior design features first seen on the exclusive Bentley Brooklands coupe, comprising 20-inch five-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels and 'Le Mans' lower front wing air vents.

Additional unique features include body-coloured front and rear lamp bezels, 'jewel' fuel filler cap (made from billet aluminium) together with 'Final Series' wing badges and polished stainless steel treadplates to the front doors.

EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP
The Arnage Final Series will have a very special appeal to Bentley customers, as Peter Guest, Head of Department, Body & Trim, explains:

"Thanks to its hand-built exclusivity and superb quality, Arnage has become a world-wide benchmark for automotive craftsmanship. The Final Series epitomises the truly bespoke feel we aspire to and are determined to maintain."

Inside, the Final Series is everything you would expect of a bespoke Bentley, offering the highest levels of hand-craftsmanship to a small, but discerning audience. The interior offers a remarkably spacious, luxury cabin to provide the ultimate in firstclass travel for four adults.

Many of the most desirable Mulliner options are included in Final Series as standard, most notably the hand-made waistrails with inset chrome strip with recessed Bentley badges, the new rear cocktail cabinet and document storage trimmed in hide, plus the beautifully designed picnic tables available in a choice of three premium unbleached wood veneers – all prime examples of Crewe craftsmanship.

Bentley is the only automobile manufacturer in the world to offer as standard a cabin trimmed entirely with leather hides – including the headlining. The handcrafted steering wheel requires up to 16 hours of double-stitching. A set of mirror-matched veneers for each car takes 13 days to craft, while 17 hides and almost 400 separate pieces of leather are used for the upholstery, trim and headlining. Arnage Final Series spans the many eras between traditional coachbuilding skills and 21st century high-performance automotive engineering.

As in every Bentley, peerless craftsmanship and bespoke finishing are to the fore. Every item of trim, be it veneer, hide or chromed bezel, uses authentic materials. Built by hand, the creation of each Arnage takes a minimum of six weeks and owners can take full advantage of Mulliner, Bentley's specialist commissioning department, as Trevor Gay, Personal Commissioning Manager, Mulliner elaborates:

"Up to 80 percent of Arnage customers specify Mulliner features. Mulliner is completely dedicated to fully understanding their requirements and to delivering a bespoke experience and a uniquely high level of personal service."

Arnage Final Series is available in the full Bentley range of 42 exterior colours, 25 interior hides, and three veneers, plus the comprehensive line-up of Mulliner options and its bespoke colour-matching service that enable Bentley owners to create a uniquely personal car.

To help customers finalise the specification of their Arnage Final Series, the Bentley design team recommends six classic colour and trim combinations – Titan Grey (with Anthracite interior), Royal Ebony (with Beluga), Windsor Blue (with Windsor Blue), Meteor (with Imperial Blue), Burnt Oak (with Burnt Oak) and Black Velvet (with Burgundy).

NEW FEATURE ENHANCEMENTS
Arnage Final Series buyers will also benefit from a range of standard and optional feature enhancements. Standard enhancements include:
o New audio head unit – with larger display screen and an SD (secure digital) memory card slot instead of the single CD slot.
o New rear cup holders – displaying Bentley craftsmanship, these removable cup holders attach to the front edge of the rear centre armrest, or can be stored inside the armrest.
o New hide covered boot rail – features coordinated leather trim and a chrome strip along the top edge.

New optional enhancements available at extra cost:
o iPod Interface – links to the Infotainment system and enables customers to play their favourite music through the car's audio system. Supplied with connectors for iPod, USB, Mini USB and a 3.5mm AUX jack. Includes a 12 volt power outlet for charging purposes.
o Rear remote control – enables the rear seat passengers to control the infotainment system. When not in use it can be stored in a dedicated pouch inside the rear centre armrest.
o Naim for Bentley world class audio system – delivers the world's best in-car sound stage. Created in partnership with Bentley by Naim Audio, a UK-based high end hi-fi manufacturer, this system features 10 speakers, a dual channel sub-woofer and a 1100 Watt amplifier – the world's most powerful production unit fitted in a car. Bentley is also the first car manufacturer to use a next-generation Digital Signal Processor (DSP) in its audio system which features eight individual modes to reproduce true emotions and a 'live' concert-like experience.

EFFORTLESS PERFORMANCE FROM CREWE'S MIGHTY V8
The engine, transmission, chassis and running gear of the Arnage Final Series are identical to those previously employed in Arnage T. In this specification, Bentley's remarkable all-aluminium 6 ¾ litre V8 engine produces 500 bhp (507PS/373kW) and 1000 Nm (738lb ft) of torque – figures that ensure that the legendary Bentley 'wave of torque' delivers effortless performance for a unique driving experience.

Acceleration to 60 mph is accomplished in 5.2 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.5 secs) with 100 mph reached in 12.1 seconds (0-160km/h in 12.0 seconds). Top speed of the Final Series is 179 mph / 288 km/h. Each V8 engine bears the signature of the team leader who oversaw its hand-built construction in the Crewe factory.

The six-speed ZF automatic transmission, first introduced for the 2007 model, ensures optimum flexibility, response and refinement. Three transmission modes (Drive, Sport and Semi-Automatic) allow the driver to take full advantage of the powerful 500 bhp V8 engine.

DYNAMIC HANDLING, SUPERB RIDE AND AWESOME BRAKING
Significantly upgraded in 2007, the Arnage's fully independent double wishbone front and rear suspension features coil springs with computer-controlled, adaptive electro-hydraulic dampers and automatic ride-height control with auto-load compensation. These endow the Arnage with impressive body control in all driving conditions, while the new five-spoke, two-piece 8.5J x 20-inch Sports alloy wheels with 255/40 ZR20 Pirelli P Zero tyres – originally developed for the Brooklands coupe - aid handling and road holding.

As an option, Final Series may be specified with carbon/silicon carbide, cross-drilled brake discs. Measuring 420 x 40 mm (front) and 356 x 28 mm (rear), these discs are the largest fitted to any production car on sale today. With eight-piston callipers, the brakes provide impressive retardation and also give an 8 kg reduction in unsprung weight, benefiting steering response, ride suppleness and acceleration.

This lightweight braking system ensures virtually fade-free use, time after time, and superb resistance to disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal use, the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and pad life is doubled compare to the standard system.

The Traction Control system is calibrated with the aim of avoiding all unnecessary reductions in engine torque. The ESP logic system, which is set-up to allow spirited handling without any reduction in stability or safety, monitors the car's overall stability rather than simply loss of grip to the wheels. This reduces the amount of intervention required and restores power earlier and more progressively, allowing the power of the V8 engine to be fully exploited.

THE PERFECT MODEL TO BID 'FAREWELL' TO ARNAGE
Commenting on the final chapter of the Arnage story, Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing, says:

"The Final Series is the perfect model to give our Arnage flagship a splendid send
off. Handcrafted at Crewe, this exclusive run of 150 cars represents the ultimate
expression of Bentley luxury and effortless power."


[Source: Bentley]












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Pininfarina Rolls-Royce Hyperion

August 21st 2008 00:15
Pininfarina Rolls-Royce Hyperion


The rather stunning Pininfarina Hyperion is a one-off custom-built car derived from the Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe and made its world debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance over the weekend


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Jaguar XK60 60th Anniversary Special Edition

July 25th 2008 05:30
Jaguar XK60 coupe


This year is the 60th anniversary of Jaguar's famous XK nameplate that was introduced in 1948 with the iconic XK120 sports car. To celebrate this milestone, the British car maker has launched a special series of the current XK model for the UK market. Appropriately named XK60, the special edition series is available with a 4.2-litre V8 engine developing 219 kW, in both coupé and convertible variants


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Project Eagle: Lotus Evora

July 23rd 2008 07:45
Lotus Evora


Lotus' Project 'Eagle' sportscar has made its international debut at the London Motor Show and has been confirmed to bear the Evora nameplate


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New Lotus project 'Eagle' sportscar

July 16th 2008 06:55
Lotus Eagle


British sports car maker Lotus is set to unveil an all-new mid-engined 2 2 sports car at the upcoming British International Motor Show which commences next week


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Posted By: charles - Category: British cars, Wallpapers, Lotus, Coupes
   


Lotus Eco Elise Concept

July 10th 2008 07:45
Lotus Eco Elise Concept


British niche sports car maker Lotus already makes some of the greenest (environmentally-friendly that is!) sports cars on the market but that hasn't stopped them from exploring other avenues to make their vehicles even more friendly to our environment as the motor industry goes to battle against global climate change


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Posted By: charles - Category: British cars, Wallpapers, Lotus, Concept
   


Jaguar XKR Portfolio Edition Australian pricing

July 7th 2008 07:45
Jaguar XKR Portfolio Edition


Jaguar Australia has announced that they will be importing just 10 examples of the ultra-exclusive XKR Portfolio edition of the sports car to Australia in the third quarter of 2008


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Lotus Clark Type 25 Elise SC

July 2nd 2008 00:15
Lotus Clark Type 25 Elise SC


British sports car manufacturer Lotus has unveiled a special edition Elise SC in honour of two-time F1 World Champion (1963 & 1965) Jim Clark


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Lotus Exige GT4 for 2009 GT Championship

June 17th 2008 00:15
Lotus Exige GT4


Lotus Australia has secured the allocation of the first four Lotus Exige GT4 specification cars - a pure motorsport-ready Exige - in readiness for the 2009 GT Championship season. Lotus is also confirming the availability of the Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 version, a race-ready progression of the Lotus Exige S with full details of both models to be announced shortly


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2009 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed

June 11th 2008 00:15
Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed


British luxury marque Bentley have given the Continental Flying Spur range a midlife freshen up and subtle restyling plus the introduction of a new 'Speed' variant with more performance


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Breckland Beira: The affordable supercar

June 3rd 2008 06:25
Breckland Beira


The Breckland Beira is a new 299 kW (400 bhp) British-built roadster by Breckland Technology, a niche sports car maker based in the UK


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2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

May 26th 2008 07:30
2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage


Prestige car maker Aston Martin has given the V8 Vantage a mid-life makeover with an array of enhancements, most notably, a new 4.7-litre engine for greater performance, revised dynamics and an improved transmission


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