Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept, 2011

In 1993 Mercedes-Benz ventured into a completely new vehicle class with the revolutionary concept of the Vision A 93. Now the brand is once again presenting a car that might have come from another planet: the Mercedes A-Class Concept is the first heartbeat of a new generation whose expressive design stands for concentrated dynamism. The Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept is celebrating its premiere at the Auto Shanghai show (21 to 28 April 2011). The technical highlights of this front-wheel drive Concept car include a new, turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine developing 155 kW (210 hp), a dual clutch transmission and a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist.

Low silhouette and slim window areas: the proportions of the A-Class Concept stand for concentrated dynamism. Its sporty appearance is given particular depth by the interplay between lines and surfaces. "The A-Class Concept introduces the new Mercedes-Benz design idiom into the compact class in a sculptured, light and expressive interpretation," says Professor Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. "We use the term 'captured energy' to express the sheer dynamism exuded by the A-Class Concept. Our formal sources of inspiration were the wind and waves, as well as aviation engineering, resulting in this "cool" look."

New turbocharged petrol engine, seven-speed dual clutch transmission
But it is not only visually, but also technologically that the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept is ushering in a new compact class era at Mercedes-Benz. This front-wheel drive model is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine from the new M270 series. It was designed for transverse installation, and thanks to direct injection and turbocharging it offers a high performance potential together with minimal emissions and fuel consumption. Other highlights of the all-aluminium engine include injection pressures of up to 200 bar and fast-responding piezo injectors.

The A-Class Concept is equipped with the two-litre variant of the new engine, developing 155 kW (210 hp). This BlueEFFICIENCY unit is combined with the new Mercedes-Benz dual clutch transmission. As a three-shaft transmission, this has seven forward gears which are shifted automatically with no interruption in tractive power. The new transmission is therefore particularly economical, sporty and comfortable.

The Exterior design with defined edges and a free interplay with the body surfaces
One major characteristic of the new design idiom at Mercedes-Benz is the expressive interplay between lines and surfaces - which the designers refer to as a "clean" Concept. Thanks to concave and convex surfaces with the resulting light modulation, this creates a unique sculpture-like presence. The A-Class Concept emphatically continues this theme of defined edges and interacting surfaces, which Mercedes-Benz first showed in the F800 Style. The side view is structured by three prominent lines: the front structural edge forms a dropping line towards the rear, while the pronounced shoulder muscle over the rear axle emphasises the car's coupé-like character. A further line extends upwards in front of the rear wheel arch in a sweeping curve. These lines lend more depth and dynamism to the side profile. The door handles are recessed into the doors, and emerge electrically at the touch of a button.

The unusual, wing-like structure of the exterior mirrors is suggestive of flow and lightness. Another prominent feature is the open side skirt, which creates an unusual light-and-shadow effect. Reminiscent of a turbine rotor, the large 20-inch wheels reinforce the impression that the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept has been shaped by the wind.

The front end of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept is a real eye-catcher. The brand logo appears to be surrounded by a starry sky. Where there are usually apertures or louvres, the radiator grille consists of numerous metallic silver "dots" on black stems. This theme is reflected in the design of the wheels.

The visually wide rear end exudes power and athleticism, and is likewise enlivened by an interplay between convex/concave surfaces and pronounced edges. The tail light clusters continue the lines of the muscular shoulders towards the rear, emphasising the car's width with their horizontal orientation. The aerodynamic spoiler lip in the tail lights improves efficiency, while the diffuser creates a downforce to aid roadholding.

The Interior dominated by associations with aviation engineering
The interior of the Mercedes A-Class Concept, which is flooded with light from the large panoramic roof, likewise appears to be from another planet. Many of the unusual features were inspired by aircraft engineering, at the same time reflecting ideas from the "Mercedes-Benz Aesthetics No. 2" interior sculpture. Various component groups have been reduced to a minimum, for example the dashboard and centre console are merely brushed aluminium structures. The result is a transparent, light, bionic design effect.

As an extremely eye-catching detail inside the A-Class Concept, the dashboard takes the form of an aircraft wing and has a translucent, stretchable textile lining. Thanks to this sophisticated fabric, which is vapour-coated with chrome particles, the bionic cellular structure of the dashboard remains visible - its design is reminiscent of a canvas-covered aircraft wing whose underlying struts are discernable. Dramatic backlighting makes this instrument carrier appear particularly futuristic. Thanks to the translucent high-tech lining and lack of a conventional support structure, the dashboard appears to be free-floating. Its lines continue into the door panelling like vapour trails from the winglets of a jet.

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept makes use of modern materials such as the high-tech lining on the dashboard, or metallised leather where semi-aniline is dyed with metallic pigments and embossed, and also high-grade nubuk leather. This builds a bridge between 125-year tradition of the Mercedes-Benz brand and its claim to progressiveness.

COMAND Online with revolutionary graphic design offers ease of use for smartphone applications
A smartphone is fully integrated into the operating systems of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept. When the phone is inserted into the recess provided in the centre console, it is automatically synchronised with the COMAND multimedia system. All the functions of the smartphone, including internet radio, email and social networks such as Twitter or Facebook, are shown as applications on the 17.8 cm display and can be operated via the rotary/push control.

The visual presentation of the screen elements is unique, with a deep, three-dimensional look created by laser-like, magenta-coloured lines. This near-series display Concept was designed and realised by designers and engineers at the Mercedes-Benz development laboratory in Palo Alto/USA. The menus in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept are in both Mandarin and English.

The Headlamps with optical fibres produce a unique effect
A very special effect is created by the lights of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept, as the innovative full-LED high-performance headlamps repeat the starry sky motif of the radiator grille with numerous lighting points. The daytime running lamps consist of 90 optical fibres with aluminium sleeves, and they are arranged in a wing-shape within the headlamp. The tentacle-like fibres form individual, diffused light sources to create a dramatic contrast between soft and harsh.

New assistance and braking system reduces the risk of rear-end collisions
In the A-Class Concept, safety pioneer Mercedes-Benz is showing another milestone in the democratisation of automotive safety technology: the concept car is equipped with a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist - a world first in the compact class. This system gives a visual and acoustic warning to a possibly inattentive driver, and prepares Brake Assist for an absolutely precise braking response which is initiated as soon as the driver emphatically operates the brake pedal.

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X, 2010

 

 

 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X, 2010

Dodge pulled the cover off the newest special-edition model of the 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 lineup. The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is a turn-key, non-street legal race car that is slated to make its on-track debut in the summer of 2010.

Combining the best performance attributes of the record-setting, street-legal Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Viper Competition Coupe, the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is powered by the SRT-developed 8.4-liter V10, equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system, that produces 640 horsepower (40 more than production model).

The suspension also is tuned and upgraded specifically for on-track usage, while the weight is lightened by a full 160 pounds (versus the standard production Viper) to take on even the most challenging road course. Additional aerodynamic upgrades improve downforce, while enhancing stability and significantly improving grip in high-speed cornering.

The Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X contains factory-installed safety equipment such as a factory-designed roll cage, fuel cell and race seat. Additional racing components are added to meet the significant durability and reliability requirements for on-track competition.

In what will be the final year of production for the current generation Viper, the ACR-X is the third limited, special-edition model to be introduced by Dodge. "We're going to make 2010 the most exciting year for Viper yet with specially developed cars for the street and the track," added Gilles. "The ACR-X is targeted at road-racing enthusiasts who want to successfully compete in our ultimate American sports car."

The SRT team used a testing session at Laguna Seca raceway to shake down the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X for the first time. Behind the wheel was professional driver Kuno Wittmer from the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship series, who was able to run consistent 1:31.00 lap times around the 2.238-mile, 11-turn course. Wittmer's lap times were more than 3 seconds faster than the street-legal Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR that holds the production car track record at Laguna Seca raceway.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is designed to compete in the Viper Racing League, Sports Car Club of America and National Auto Sport Association events.
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X will be approximately $110,000. Production is slated to begin in Spring 2010.

Dodge Viper SRT10, 2010

 

 Dodge Viper SRT10, 2010

The final production year of the current generation Dodge Viper SRT10, Dodge plans to deliver a vehicle lineup like no other since the introduction of the iconic American sports car in 1992.

At the heart of the 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains the venerable 8.4-liter (510 cu. in.) V-10 engine that produces 600 (450 kW) horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. (760 N•m) of torque. Benchmark performance numbers, including 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range and 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat, and a top speed of 202 mph, continue to prove how the serious, race-inspired, street-legal two-seater performs without apology.

Body style offerings remain unchanged with the availability of Roadster and Coupe models along with the ACR (American Club Racer) package. Approximately 500 vehicles will be built for the 2010 model year.

With the introduction of two new exterior colors-Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat-Dodge Viper SRT10 is now available in 12 different colors - the most regularly available choices in one model year. And with six stripe options in the new wider configuration, five different interior color combinations, four different wheel choices and three available interior bezels; the 2010 Viper SRT10 will be available in more than 7,600 combinations-the most for any one model year-significantly adding to the exclusivity of each car like never before.

New across the Viper lineup is a shorter fifth gear ratio (changing from 0.74 to 0.80) for improved high-speed acceleration and higher straightaway speeds. Acceleration from 0-200 mph has improved by 14 seconds. This improvement is a direct result of the Chrysler Group LLC Street and Racing Technology team's experience at the 12.9-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit in Germany where during the lap-record run in 2008, it was found that a revised gear ratio would have resulted in higher top gear acceleration and a quicker lap time.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 channels its power through a ZF Sachs twin-disc clutch that reduces rotating inertia by 18 percent, reduces clutch-pedal effort and improves engagement feel. Transferring power to the rear wheels is a heavy-duty six-speed manual transmission.

Stopping power is another carefully developed part of the Dodge Viper SRT10 equation, with 14-inch brake rotors gripped by Brembo 44/40 dual-opposing piston calipers in the front and Brembo 42/38 dual-opposing calipers in the rear. This system results in world-class braking performance of 60-0 mph in less than 100 feet.

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR
The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR receives a new short-throw shifter in 2010 for enhanced driver experience and better performance. The rear wing profile and end plates are redesigned to further optimize the vehicle aerodynamics and improve rear yaw downforce. These changes combined with the new fifth gear ratio result in an increased top speed of 4 mph (to 184 mph for the ACR model).

The enhanced four-wheel independent suspension features high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, KW suspension with two-way adjustable competition coil-over shock absorbers with remote reservoirs.

The aerodynamic package features a carbon fiber "fanged" splitter in front and adjustable carbon-fiber wing with seven-position stanchions that allow up to an amazing 1,000 lbs. of downforce at 150 mph. Lightweight wheels, two-piece slotted StopTech brake rotors and Michelin PS Cup tires round out the Dodge Viper ACR package.

New Special, Limited-edition Models
Limited-edition models are planned for the 2010 model year, including the Dodge Viper ACR 1:33 Edition, which will pay tribute to the new production car lap record set on Nov. 24 at Laguna Seca raceway. The unique two-tone Black Clear Coat/Red Clear Coat exterior color scheme on this model is the opposite form of the original Viper ACR. Interior highlights include piano black console bezels with red gauge highlights complemented with red accent stitching in the seats. Only 33 cars will be produced as 1:33 Edition Viper ACR models.

The 2010 Vooodoo-edition Viper ACR will feature an all Black Clear Coat exterior with a Graphite Driver's Stripe outlined in red. Only 10 cars will be produced with the unique striping on both the exterior, as well as on the steering wheel.

Dodge Caliber, 2010

 

 

 

Dodge Caliber, 2010

Dodge Caliber is a five-door C-segment hatchback that combines a sporty coupe-like profile with the strength, stance and functionality of an SUV. It features an all-new refined interior and Common-rail Diesel (CRD) engine to satisfy the needs of discerning international customers.

The all-new Euro V capable engine is paired to a six-speed manual transmission and produces 120 kW (163 hp DIN) and 320 Nm (236 lb.-ft.), delivering 16 percent more power, 3 percent more torque and 25 percent more towing capability (1500 kg) compared with the previous diesel engine. Forged steel connecting rods, aluminum head and pistons, and fourth-generation direct-injection system provide durability, weight reduction and performance. Passenger refinement also improves as dual balance shafts and sound-deadening materials reduce the diesel engine's vibration and harshness by 25 percent compared with the previous Dodge Caliber CRD.

Two World Engine offerings (2.0- and 2.4-liter) deliver power and refinement thanks to dual Variable-valve Timing (VVT) and an intake manifold design with flow control valves. Combined, these features produce more power, better fuel economy and a smoother, quieter operation than engines without them. The 2.0-liter World Engine replaces the 1.8-liter engine, delivering 4 percent more power (115 kW /156 hp DIN) and 13 percent more torque (190 Nm / 140 lb.-ft.). For even greater performance, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 125 kW (170 hp DIN) and 220 Nm (162 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The new Dodge Caliber debuts at the 2009 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, featuring an all-new refined interior with a more harmonious design aesthetic executed with premium materials and craftsmanship. An all-new designed instrument panel features a more integrated look and includes additional cubby space, center storage bin and larger climate controls. Bright satin silver accents add contrast to Dodge Caliber's interior design, while chromed accents brighten heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) vents, shift bezel, door handles and cluster rings. New door-trim panels and center console with armrest split-lid feature padded soft-touch materials for improved passenger comfort.

The Dodge Caliber offers an array of unique interior features in its segment, including Chill Zone cooled-beverage storage bin, Uconnect Navigation with voice commands, iPod Control, rechargeable LED flashlight and an available MusicGate Power Sound Group, which includes two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate that swing down for tailgating and other activities.

BMW 6-Series Coupe Concept, 2010

 

 

 

 

BMW 6-Series Coupe Concept, 2010

The BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept is a fascinating vision that blends traditional values with innovative design language. This concept model, unveiled for the first time at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, showcases the experience the brand has acquired in more than 70 years of building sporty and elegant coupés. It also paves the way for a new, aesthetically powerful and dynamic interpretation of this breed of vehicle. With the BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept, the German premium carmaker is presenting a new definition of luxury-class 2+2-seater driving enjoyment and exclusiveness.

The powerful proportions and sporty yet elegant lines of the BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept provide the perfect packaging for its dynamic performance and personality. All the classic hallmarks of a BMW coupé are present, including the stretched bonnet, the short front overhang, a passenger compartment set well to the rear, and a low silhouette incorporating a dynamically flowing roofline. The principal bodywork lines run the full length of the concept model, and there is a strong sense of stylistic unity between all the different parts of the vehicle. The lines and surfaces seem to ripple out in a dynamic, pulsating wave.

Eye-catching features of the concept model include the new LED headlights, which combine the typical BMW twin round headlight format with innovative lighting technology. The all-LED design, featured for the first time on a BMW, produces a strikingly bright white light with very sharp and intensive road illumination. The functionality includes Adaptive Headlights, i.e. the headlight beam follows the road at all times. The LED rings for the daytime driving lights accentuate the characteristic, unmistakable BMW front-end styling.

The interior of the BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept conveys functionality, elegance and exclusiveness. The fluent lines and smooth transitions in the cockpit area produce an ambience that extends to the whole interior, embracing both the front- and the rear-seat occupants. The driver-centric interior design is typical of BMW and a hallmark of a sports coupé. Keynotes are the exceptionally stylish design in the centre console area and, providing a further innovative touch, the freestanding 10.2-inch iDrive Control Display in the centre of the instrument panel. The concept model is also equipped with the Head-Up Display system that offers world-beating functionality and display quality. For maximum listening quality, the hi-fi system was designed specially for the BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept using high-quality components from Danish audio systems specialists Bang & Olufsen.

A proud tradition: the BMW coupé.
As a byword for sporty driving enjoyment, coupé models have a special place in the history of the BMW brand. The BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept is the latest chapter in a tradition which stretches back 70 years and is richly packed with memorable racing wins and many legendary icons in automotive design. Milestones in this evolution include the BMW 327 and BMW 327/28 models, the racing coupés based on the BMW 328, the BMW 503, the BMW 3200 CS, the BMW 2000 CS, the large coupés based on the BMW 3.0 CSi and, from 1976 onwards, the BMW 6-Series models.

With its flawless elegance and impressive performance the BMW 327 Coupé, unveiled in 1938, quickly established itself as the brand's most exclusive pre-war model. With barely a pause, the dynamic performance was then taken a stage further by the BMW 327/28, whose 80 hp sports engine was taken from the BMW 328 Roadster model. In 1940, a one-off coupé version of the BMW 328, driven by Fritz Huschke von Hanstein and Walter Bäumer, was the overall winner of the Mille Miglia endurance race. This triumph came courtesy of rigorous lightweight design, optimised aerodynamics and a powerful and reliable 136 hp in-line six-cylinder engine. In other words, the winning vehicle displayed characteristics which still form the backbone for the design of the more sporty BMW models to this day. The traditional coupé values were given a modern interpretation in the BMW Mille Miglia Concept Coupé, unveiled by BMW in 2006 as a salute to the unsung heroes behind the BMW 328's triumph - the engineers.

In their respective decades, both the BMW 503 from 1955, designed by Albrecht Graf Goertz, and the BMW 2000 CS created by Wilhelm Hofmeister and unveiled in 1965 set new standards in coupé design. The slim pillars and svelte roofline, the narrow BMW twin-kidney grille and the Hofmeister kink at the base of the C-pillar, named after BMW's chief designer of the time, gave the BMW 2000 CS an unmistakable and elegant styling signature. The design language was developed a stage further in the next-generation model - as was the sports performance, with an even more powerful range of engines. The proportions of the big coupé were refined and improved by a longer bonnet, while twin round headlights gave the front end a characteristic sporty appearance. By 1973 the BMW 3.0 CS, BMW 3.0 CSi and BMW 3.0 CSL models had been launched, powered by in-line six-cylinder engines developing up to 206 hp. In motor sport, too, these models held sway for many years.

The BMW 6-Series has similarly stirred and spurred a passion for sporty driving in a stylish and luxurious two-door format for many years, right through to the BMW M6 Coupé of today with its unmatched dynamism and athleticism and its 373 kW/507 hp high-revving ten-cylinder engine.

Classic coupé proportions in a distinctly sporty format.
A BMW coupé's design is a stylish and authentic expression of superior sports performance rooted in the company's unique experience in engine and chassis development. The proportions, the aesthetically powerful design language and the flowing lines epitomise the characteristic blend of dynamism and unassailable elegance - a design principle that underpins the BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept as well, though in a modern and innovative interpretation. The concept model is an extremely sporty premium luxury-class 2+2-seater. Taking passion for supreme performance to new levels in the BMW 6-Series range, it is an expression of driving enjoyment at its most exclusive.

The low silhouette of the BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept points to the low centre of gravity, which is reflected in agile, surefooted handling. The long bonnet and a passenger cell which is set well back provide advance warning of the Coupé's eager responsiveness and its dynamic power delivery and sprinting performance. The powerful sculpting of the bodywork surfaces, particularly near the rear wheels, gives the concept model an even more athletic appearance, while the roofline in particular, flowing elegantly towards the trailing edge at the rear, is a reminder of the concept's carefully honed aerodynamic qualities.

Dynamic wave effect underpins naturally flowing lines and surfaces.
The bodywork surfaces are defined by bold, precise lines, which divide the body into a mix of concave- and convex-contoured surfaces. The counterpoint between lines and surfaces lends the BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept a natural, authentic aura of sportiness. This interplay is reminiscent of wave motion on the surface of an ocean, generated by the ebb and flow of wind and tides.

All the bodywork lines are continuous and uninterrupted throughout their entire length. They connect the front, side and rear sections of the vehicle to create a sculpted body shape that radiates harmony from every angle.

Road-hugging front end: hallmark BMW styling cues in a new interpretation.
The wide, low-slung, road-hugging front-end stance of the BMW 6-Series Coupé Concept is an accurate reflection of its sporting temperament. The bonnet surfaces are defined by four lines which gradually converge at the front of the vehicle. The two inner lines follow a trajectory towards the BMW emblem, while the two outer lines terminate at the outer edge of the BMW kidney grille, which is wider at the top than at the bottom. The BMW kidney grille marks the front extremity of the body, its slight forward rake imparting the first taste of sportiness to come. The effect is increased by the slight angle in the upper part of the kidney grille bars, which sport hardened glass inserts. This elaborate sculpting gives the hallmark kidney grille an extra-luxurious and avant-garde touch.

The headlights, which are set well back, and below them a bumper contour line that flows downwards and outwards, make the kidney grille appear even more dominant. The lower air intake runs the full width of the front end and is divided by horizontal chrome struts with an undulating surface. A crease defines the lower edge of the air intake and wraps round to the outer sides, where a slight curve draws attention to the wheels and thus to the sense of width. Sharply raked foglamps placed well to the outside of the bonnet, and powered by three adjacent LED light units, further accentuate the width and bold stance of the concept model.

Innovative technology, modified styling, typical BMW night-time look: all-LED twin round headlights make their debut.

BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo, 2010

 

 

 

 

 

BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo, 2010

The luxurious and, for a car with this kind of coupé-like silhouette, surprisingly generous and variable interior gives both the driver and passengers a spontaneous feeling of comfort and well-being. This superior feeling is further enhanced by comfortable entry to the car, the slightly elevated seating position, the large window areas, the optional panorama glass roof, as well as exquisite materials and supreme quality of finish.

Flexibly adjustable, the interior of the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo enables the driver and passengers to vary the generous space inside the car as they wish to their individual, personal requirements. In their standard position, the rear seats offer the passengers the same kind of legroom as in the BMW 7-Series combined with the same headroom as in the BMW X5. In this configuration, luggage capacity is already an ample 440 litres or 15.4 cu ft. Thanks to the partition behind the rear seats, the passenger and luggage compartments are separated acoustically and in terms of climate conditions from one another like in a saloon. When required, the rear seats may be moved individually to the front by up to 100 millimetres or almost 4", with legroom still remaining the same as in the BMW 5-Series Saloon and an increase in luggage capacity to 590 litres or 20.7 cu ft. And after folding down the rear-seat backrests together with the partition, finally, luggage space increases to its maximum capacity of 1,700 litres or 59.5 cu ft.

The sheer space and the inspiring, modern design of the interior team up to provide a truly luxurious ambience and the supreme long-distance comfort of a modern Gran Turismo. The sleek surfaces on the front and rear door panels merging smoothly into one another as well as the horizontal arrangement of the instrument panel enhance the impression of supreme generosity. Seat comfort, headroom and elbow freedom are all of the highest standard otherwise to be found only in the luxury performance class. The slightly elevated seating position, the clear, structured arrangement of the controls, BMW's new iDrive with its Control Display up to 10.2 inches in size, and the cockpit in Black Panel technology all help to give the driver maximum supremacy at all times. The rear seats may be adjusted individually fore-and-aft and also come with individual adjustment of the backrest angle. To meet the greatest demands in terms of individual luxury, finally, two individual comfort seats at the rear are available as an option.

The BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo is entering the market with a choice of no less than three ultra-modern drive units carrying over BMW EfficientDynamics into a new segment in the automobile world. The BMW 530d Gran Turismo offers a truly unique, unparalleled balance of driving experience and fuel economy with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 6.5 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 43.5 mpg imp, and a CO2 rating of 173 g/km. The two gasoline models also set new standards for efficiency in their respective engine class.

As a world-first achievement introducing a new and even more efficient range of engines, the BMW 535i Gran Turismo comes with the first straight-six gasoline engine featuring TwinPower Turbo, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC and developing maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp. The top engine in the range, finally, is the V8 TwinPower Turbo delivering maximum output of 300 kW/407 hp in the BMW 550i Gran Turismo. The BMW 530d Gran Turismo, in turn, comes with a 180 kW/245 hp straight-six diesel of the latest generation with an all-aluminium crankcase and common-rail direct fuel injection. All engines naturally fulfil the EU5 emission standard.

All model variants come as standard with the eight-speed automatic transmission previously to be admired only in the BMW 760Li twelve-cylinder luxury saloon. Featuring an innovative configuration of gearsets, a unique level of internal efficiency, and the same low weight and compact dimensions as a six-speed automatic transmission, this high-tech automatic combines gearshift comfort, dynamic performance, and motoring efficiency of the highest calibre. The most advanced engine technology, the innovative eight-speed automatic transmission, and a wide range of unique technologies in the context of BMW EfficientDynamics allow the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo to set new standards also in terms of economy and emission management.

The modern, demanding suspension technology of the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo is designed for both fascinating driving dynamics and supreme grand touring comfort. The double track control arm front axle and the Integral-V rear axle exclusive to BMW are made largely of aluminium. Standard features also include rear axle air suspension as well as hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with a steering servo pump operating on demand. Integral Active Steering is available as an option, combining active steering of the front wheels with rear-wheel steering varying according to driving conditions and current requirements.

Featured as standard, Dynamic Drive Control influences not only the gearshift dynamics, but also the gas pedal and steering assistance control map. In combination with optional Adaptive Drive, the dampers with infinite variation on both the inbound and rebound stroke contribute to the superior suspension function. In addition to the NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ programs, the driver also has the choice of the COMFORT mode available directly from the Dynamic Drive Control button on the centre console. A further point is that intervention in DSC Dynamic Stability Control is reduced in the SPORT+ setting and in the traction mode.

The optimised body structure in conjunction with appropriately coordinated and electronically masterminded passive safety systems ensures maximum occupant safety at all times. These systems include three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, frontal and side airbags as well as head airbags at the side, crash-activated headrests at the front, runflat tyres and a tyre defect indicator. The standard features include foglamps and adaptive brake lights, with bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime driving light function as well as Adaptive Headlights with variable light distribution and Bending Lights all coming as an option.